|
 |
Return to: Home » Health Articles : Chiropractic Treatments for ADHD
Advertisement
Get the Beautiful Living Newsletter
Chiropractic Treatments for ADHD
Advertisement
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults is often treated with Ritalin, a stimulant medication that helps improve brain activity and increases focus and concentration. However, some health experts believe that chiropractic therapy may be just as effective at improving the lifestyle of ADHD sufferers as prescription drugs. According the American Chiropractic Association, some children who have been diagnosed with ADHD can benefit from a non-drug treatment that improves focus and makes it easier for them to concentrate for longer periods of time.
Link Between Chiropractic Treatment and ADHD
Chiropractors and chiropractic neurologists have found several patterns in the brain activity and spinal health of ADHD patients. According to Dr. Robert Melillo, a chiropractic neurologist, “Motor activity—especially development of the postural muscles—is the baseline function of brain activity. Anything affecting postural muscles will influence brain development. Musculoskeletal imbalance will create imbalance of brain activity, and one part of the brain will develop faster than the other, and that's what's happening in ADHD patients.” (Source: ACAToday.org)
ADHD often triggers a number of behavioral problems and interferes with the learning process. These cognitive difficulties can often be traced to a neurological imbalance that may result in postural problems, extreme sensitivity to touch, sensitivity to certain sounds and tremors. In some cases, the imbalances can trigger migraines, headaches and other neurological problems.
When the spinal column is adjusted with chiropractic treatments, many of these neurological problems simply disappear. Chiropractic treatments release tension and blocked energy around the spine so that the neurons can communicate more effectively. When the brain and the spine are communicating clearly, the energy flow can improve thinking, focus and memory for the long-term. This process may also help reduce anxiety, stress and other negative effects commonly associated with spinal misalignment.
Managing ADHD with Chiropractic Therapy
In addition to getting regular chiropractic, people suffering from ADHD may consider making certain lifestyle changes. The American Chiropractic Association encourages parents and individuals with ADHD to do the following:
- Eat mostly organic foods with as few pesticides or herbicides as possible
- Remove excess sugar from the diet
- Avoid excessive preservatives and additives
- Stop using pesticides and artificial products around the house
- Maintain a dairy-free and gluten-free diet to reduce risk of allergies
- Engage in natural relaxation activities on a regular basis
Other Benefits of Chiropractic Therapy
Some of the other key benefits of chiropractic therapy include:
- Increased feelings of well-being
- Improved posture
- Better memory
- Improved sleep
- Reduced dependency on other prescription medications
- Reduced sensitivity to pain
- Improved functioning of joints and muscles
Doctors of chiropractic are trained to treat a number of neurological problems using non-invasive techniques and treatment modalities. If you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, you may be able to manage the symptoms of the disorder better with regular chiropractic treatments. A chiropractor will conduct a full spinal examination, nutritional analyses, and offer several treatment options to restore you or your child to good health. Set up a consultation with your chiropractor to find out what your treatment options may be.
Published: 11/06/2009, Last Updated: 11/06/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.
Related Subjects and Keywords: chiropractic treatment chiropractic benefits adhd adhd treatment attention deficit disorder chiropractic therapy chiropractor
Advertisement
Dissatisfied with our Health Articles? Have a health article suggestion?
Tell us how we can improve.
| Surgery Guides | Cosmetic Procedures | Find A Doctor | Patient Resources | Site Navigation |