Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a collection of traits that can include intense concentration, creativity, selective attention, impulsiveness and hyperactivity, difficulties in social interaction, and difficulties in motor coordination. This might sound like all children at some point but children with ADD/ADHD are like this most of the time. ADD/ADHD is a very wide ranging group of conditions and for a child to be diagnosed their behaviours must be out of line with milestones of children in the same age group and they must be causing an impairment of function at home or school.
The number of children being diagnosed with ADD/ADHD is on the rise world wide, and with that the prescription of psychotropic drugs being given to children, such as Ritalin and Concerta, has exploded. These drugs are stimulants to the central nervous system, which affect chemicals in the brain and nerves and alters the behaviour of the child. They are temporarily masking the symptoms rather than getting to the underlying problem.
“All functions of the body are controlled by the nervous system.” – Gray’s Textbook of Anatomy
ADD is not the result of a lack of Ritalin!
While Chiropractors do not “treat” or cure ADD/ADHD, Chiropractic adjustments have been seen to increase concentration and improve coordination. By removing interference to the nervous system (Subluxations) Chiropractors allowing the body to return to optimal function and restore balance to the brain.
Vitalistic Chiropractors can also advise on lifestyle factors that are so very important in caring for people with ADD/ADHD.
Apart from getting checked by a Chiropractor, you can also get moving! Movement of the spine acts like a windmill to power the brain. Not only is movement vital for balanced brain function but it is also a required nutrient for health. Telling a child to “sit still” is depriving them of something that is essential to their ability to Thrive!
Nutrition plays a huge part in how your body functions. Eating biologically appropriate, nutrient dense foods will provide fuel to allow your body to function optimally.
Mental and emotional stress is a major indication of overall health status. Communication breakdowns in the family, the death of a loved one…these can all prevent your body from functioning optimally.
If your child has been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD or if you have any concerns about your child please consider a consultation with your local vitalistic Chiropractor BEFORE reaching for the pills.
For some more on ADD/ADHD and Chiropractic have a look at Dr Greg’s article for The ADD Lab here.
Peak Chiropractic Centre located in Claremont are family-friendly chiropractors focused on relieving aches, pains and posture correction. We offer in-house X-Ray facilities.
