Enhancing ADHD Management through Chiropractic Care: Insights from Recent Research

Recent research led by Drew Rubin, DC, CCSP, DACCP, has shed light on the effectiveness of an integrative approach to managing Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children. Published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic the study titled "Positive Health Outcomes Following Chiropractic, Primitive Reflexes Integration and Interactive Metronome Use in a Child Diagnosed with ADHD: A Case Study" presents compelling evidence on the benefits of combining specific chiropractic adjustments with primitive reflex integration exercises and the use of the Interactive Metronome. 

CLICK HERE to review the study 

The study focused on an 11-year-old male diagnosed with ADHD who exhibited positive retained primitive reflexes and low scores on the Interactive Metronome, a tool designed to improve timing, attention, and coordination. The intervention strategy adopted for the child included consistent chiropractic care, targeted exercises to rehabilitate his retained primitive reflexes, and disciplined practice with the Interactive Metronome home version.

The foundation of chiropractic philosophy is the understanding that the nervous system controls and coordinates all functions of the body. However, structural shifts in the spine, known as vertebral subluxations, can occur and obstruct the nerves, interfering with their function. These obstructions can lead to a myriad of health issues, potentially affecting an individual's ability to regulate attention, behavior, and emotional responses effectively. Chiropractors are trained to identify and correct these vertebral subluxations by removing the structural shifts, thus improving nerve supply and overall body function.

In the context of ADHD, chiropractic care is not directly treating the disorder itself but rather focuses on optimizing nervous system function by addressing spinal health. This approach is based on the premise that a healthier nervous system can enhance an individual's overall well-being and potentially mitigate some of the challenges associated with ADHD. By improving nerve supply and function, chiropractic care aims to support the body's natural abilities to self-regulate and adapt to external and internal stimuli more effectively.

After undergoing reexaminations at the 12th and 24th visits, the child demonstrated significant behavioral improvements. Notably, there was a marked decrease in his retained primitive reflexes and a substantial increase in his Interactive Metronome scores. These outcomes highlight the potential of a multifaceted treatment approach in addressing the complex needs of children diagnosed with ADHD. 

Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic
http://www.chiropracticpediatricresearch.com
support@vertebralsubluxationresearch.com