The effectiveness of chiropractic care in a 12 year old male with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).

Kimberly A. Allen, DC, DACCP

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Abstract

Objective: To describe the effectiveness of chiropractic care in pediatric
patient with (ADD).

Clinical Features: 12 yr old male presented for consultation with complaints associated with ADD. Symptoms included lack of attention and
focusing in the classroom, during homework sessions, and difficulty
retaining the required learning information. Additional complaints include
loss of appetite and sleeping difficulties. Patient’s mother noted that her
son was “different” at the age 5. At this age, patient was unable to hold a
pencil properly, limited eye contact, and would often pace systematically
throughout the house. The child was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) following an evaluation by school administrators and clinically diagnosed by his pediatrician. Medical approach involved a prescription of Concerta 27 mg per day. Patient’s mother reported no noticeable improvements in her child on or off the prescription medication.

Intervention and Outcome: Primary modes of care were specific spinal
manipulative therapy described as high velocity, low amplitude (HVLA)
thrusts to sites of subluxation in the cervical spine. Adjunctive therapy
included dietary recommendations and nutritional supplements. Following
a course of chiropractic care, patient’s parents decided upon a weaning
of his medication. Furthermore, patient’s mother reported an increase in
the patient’s appetite, improved sleeping routines, decreased pacing and
significant improvement in his grades over the course of two months of
chiropractic care.

Conclusion: The effective chiropractic care of a pediatric patient with
ADD has been described. Continued research is advocated to further
evaluate the non-pharmaceutical approaches to these patients under the
auspices of chiropractic care.