Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common childhood neurocognitive disorder that is characterized by persistent symptoms of executive dysfunction. It negatively impacts a person’s ability to function in school, work, and other settings. It is important to note that while ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, it can also occur in adults. According to the DSM-V, the diagnostic manual for psychiatric disorders used in the United States, the symptoms must have been present as a child, even if the client is an adult now. Those symptoms must impair functioning in society to some degree, and there must not be any other explanation for those symptoms. It is the latter factor that allows for intervention by a chiropractor in cases of ADHD that may be explained by other disorders, such as skeletal muscle disorders, chronic pain, and vertebral subluxations. In some cases, the resolution of underlying medical conditions can result in the resolution of ADHD-like symptoms.
A diagnosis of ADHD is a clinical diagnosis made based on a preponderance of evidence that the disorder is present. This usually involves input from family, friends, teachers, and others in the life of the individual being assessed, as well as the use of validated cognitive assessment tools that can create a score that is suggestive of ADHD. However, for someone with another condition, like depression, anxiety, pain, chronic illness, and more, those same symptoms may exist and cause problems in functioning. That they have an alternative explanation is what makes the diagnosis of ADHD in those individuals inappropriate. Because ADHD is often overdiagnosed, it’s important to advocate for yourself or your child to ensure appropriate help is given based on the individual’s needs.
If you suspect you or your child has been diagnosed with ADHD incorrectly, there are several ways to distinguish if alternative therapies may help. Here are some times when chiropractic can be especially beneficial for those with ADHD.
If Stimulants Do Not Have the Desired Effect When Prescribed
Stimulants are often the first treatments for ADHD. However, if an individual takes ADHD medication and does not see improvement or symptoms worsen, then it is unlikely that the diagnosis of primary ADHD is accurate. Additionally, if you wish to avoid medicating someone diagnosed with ADHD, chiropractic care is a great way to manage symptoms and improve the overall wellness of someone with ADHD symptoms.
If the Diagnosis Was Made Without Ruling Out Potential Medical Causes First
If the diagnosis was made without a thorough psychiatric evaluation, including questions about personal history in school, work, home behavior, physical symptoms, and an examination, then there is a potential for an unknown alternative explanation for the symptoms.
If the Diagnosis Is Made By an Untrained Professional
ADHD should be diagnosed by a trained and licensed mental health care provider. Teachers, school faculty, and even primary care providers may not have the correct training to identify this very real and complex disorder.
How Can a Chiropractor Help with ADHD Symptoms?
Many case studies have shown benefits from chiropractic care for those with ADHD. In each case, the member received specific therapies as determined by the expert chiropractor for the care of vertebral subluxation. Any impingement on the spinal cord can result in altered signals reaching and leaving the brain, which can affect neurocognitive function. Chronic pain can also result in cognitive dysfunction over time, and chiropractic care can certainly mitigate many musculoskeletal pain conditions. With the long-term risks and social stigma of stimulant use, it is imperative to ensure the diagnosis of ADHD is accurate. Any suspected ADHD caused by physical conditions should be first and foremost treated by caring for the underlying issue.
Chiropractors like Dr. Thomas Keogh at Bare Chiropractic in Billings can help restore health and function to those who have ADHD symptoms, whether they’ve received an official diagnosis or not. It requires skill and expertise to determine the right plan of care for each individual seeking chiropractic care. To learn more about how chiropractic can help you and to schedule a consultation, contact Dr. Thomas Keogh and his team at Bare Chiropractic.
Sources
Magnus, W., Nazir, S., Anilkumar, A. C., et al. (2022). Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In: StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441838/
Zielinski, E. & Mankal, K. (2014). An epidemiological approach to the effects of subluxation-based chiropractic care on the management of ADHD, depression and learning disabilities in an 8-year-old: A case study. Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, p. 153-160. https://vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/04/an-epidemiological-approach-to-the-effects-of-subluxation-based-chiropractic-care-on-the-management-of-adhd-depression-and-learning-disabilities-in-an-8-year-old-a-case-study/
