Holistic Approach to ADHD/ADD
Children’s nervous systems are wired to move! Movement allows for activation and development of proprioception (sensory) and vestibular (balance) pathways with in the spine and brain. When there is a lack of movement there is a lack of development and regulation of these pathways. The nervous system is intelligent and will increase activity leading to what we perceive as hyperactivity and acting out. However the nervous system is forcing the body to move and increase the sensory input so that it can continue to develop.
There can be many signs that indicate that your child’s nervous system is not regulation or functioning properly. Signs include children with rapid mood changes, trouble sitting still, sick often, low immunity, difficulty focusing at school, balance issues, delayed milestones and extra rough with other kids. The nervous system controls all functions within the body and dysfunction causing ADHD symptoms can also affect the function and regulation of other systems in the body.
The best way to work with these is encourage and support the natural processes the body is intuitively trying to achieve. The body needs more sensory input and better communication and regulation in the nervous system. We have found great success with the kids in our office that get adjusted regularly. Adjustments that are focused on removing interference and bringing greater balance to the different functions of the nervous system will give it the best ability to develop, learn and adapt to the different stimuli it encounters.
We offer state of the art scans and exams at our office in Mercer Pa that allow us to pinpoint what areas within the nervous system and spine are contributing to the disruption and hyperactivity. We offer pediatric specific chiropractic adjustments for kids that are gentle, specific and don’t involve any scary twisting popping or cracking.
Some general activities we recommend to incorporate at home are big motor play. This means activities that activate lots of motor function and require a lot of sensory and balance activity. Allowing kids to engage in these activities (in a safe environment and manner) will promote these pathways that are under developed to be activated and allow them to grow as they are used. Playing outside for extended periods throughout the week is very beneficial. This allows there body and nervous system to experience many different environments, terrains and surfaces expediting the growth and development of the neurological pathways. For those times where playing outside is not possible you can substitute active movement and sensory games inside. If you are interested in more specific activities and exercises to utilize for your child I definitely recommend scheduling an initial appointment at our Mercer PA Chiropractic office so we can evaluate your child’s specific nervous system needs.
As always if you have any questions reach out to us. Share with someone that you think would benefit.
-Dr. Josh Stearns
