Chiroblog

Down syndrome is a genetic condition resulting from an extra copy of chromosome 21.  The disorder often includes developmental delays, cognitive challenges, and various health concerns, including those affecting the musculoskeletal system¹. While conventional treatments like physical therapy and medical management are well-established, recent studies suggest that chiropractic care might offer additional benefits for children with Down syndrome. Multiple case studies conclude that chiropractic care is a safe and effective treatment option, reporting no adverse side effects but many positive effects². A case report of a 4-year-old patient with Down syndrome concluded that the correction of the first cervical vertebra (atlas) using gentle chiropractic adjustments was responsible for the correction of convergent strabismus³. Another study reported improved breastfeeding patterns, resolution of a chronically blocked nose, and improved sleep and concentration following regular chiropractic care in a 9-year-old Down syndrome patient².

Children with Down syndrome also show distinct physical issues such as hypotonia (decreased muscle tone) and joint laxity. Spinal misalignments such as scoliosis and hip instability are frequently observed due to their unique musculoskeletal structure⁵. Chiropractic care aims to remove subluxations and enhance the body’s physical function by addressing postural imbalances and reducing discomfort associated with spinal misalignments⁷. This could enhance quality of life in patients with Down syndrome, who commonly experience musculoskeletal pain from joint instability and misalignments².

Chiropractic care might also indirectly boost immune function. A review published in the journal Medicina concluded that spinal adjustments may support a healthy immune response by affecting immune mediators in the body⁴.  Given that children with Down syndrome are more susceptible to infections², maintaining a well-functioning immune system could be beneficial. 

Chiropractic care should complement a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the child’s specific needs. Some Down syndrome patients also fail to develop the transverse ligament, which stabilizes the two first vertebrae of the spine by binding the dens of C2 (Axis)  to the anterior arch of C1 (Atlas). This causes atlanto-axial instability in the upper cervical spine². Choosing a chiropractor experienced in working with children and individuals with developmental disorders is essential. Use of the Activator instrument offers a very gentle adjustment that is both safe and effective for a wide variety of conditions⁸, including Down syndrome⁶.

References:

1. “Down Syndrome: Symptoms & Causes.” Cleveland Clinic, 1 May 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17818-down-syndrome. 
2.  Daruwalla, Delsey. “Down Syndrome and Chronic Ear, Nose and Throat Infections: A Case Report.” Journal of CliniCal ChiropraCtiC pediatriCs, vol. 14, no. 1, June 2013, pp. 1088–1092, https://doi.org/https://jccponline.com/jccp_v14_n1.pdf#page=35. 
3. “Chiropractic Care of a Down’s Syndrome Patient with Vertebral Subluxation and Strabismus.” Vertebral Subluxation Research, vertebralsubluxationresearch.com/2017/09/10/chiropractic-care-of-a-downs-syndrome-patient-with-vertebral-subluxation-and-strabismus/. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024. 
4. 4) Haavik, Heidi, et al. “The Potential Mechanisms of High-Velocity, Low-Amplitude, Controlled Vertebral Thrusts on Neuroimmune Function: A Narrative Review.” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 27 May 2021, www.mdpi.com/1648-9144/57/6/536. 
5. 5) Foley, Charlene, and Orla G Killeen. “Musculoskeletal Anomalies in Children with Down Syndrome: An Observational Study.” Archives of Disease in Childhood, U.S. National Library of Medicine, May 2019, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6557226/. 
6. 6) Dyck, V. Gary. “ Upper cervical instability in Down’s syndrome: A Case Report.” Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, vol. 25, no. 2, June 1981. 
7. 7) professional, Cleveland Clinic medical. “Chiropractic Adjustment Care, Treatment & Benefits.” Cleveland Clinic, 27 June 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21033-chiropractic-adjustment. 
8. Taylor, Shane H, et al. “A Review of the Literature Pertaining to the Efficacy, Safety, Educational Requirements, Uses and Usage of Mechanical Adjusting Devices: Part 2 of 2.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, U.S. National Library of Medicine, June 2004, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1840040/#:~:text=Of%20the%2016%20studies%20that,than%20do%20manual%20HVLA%20procedures.