Chiroblog

Dyslexia is a learning disorder that impacts an individual’s reading and writing abilities. It is not caused by issues regarding needed glasses or lack of education, but rather persistent issues in processing written information. According to recent studies, it is more common than was once thought, accounting for roughly 80% of all learning disorders. In primary school children alone, about 7.1% have dyslexia. While the exact cause of dyslexia is not fully known, factors contributing to the rise in dyslexia include genetic predispositions and environmental influences. Many studies reveal that dyslexia is almost twice as common in boys than it is in girls. [1]

Dyslexia can significantly impact a child's academic performance and self-esteem, making early diagnosis and intervention crucial. The disorder can cause a high level of frustration in school, which can ultimately lead to negative experiences associated with learning and taking part in classroom activities [1].

In addition to the previous mentions of genetic and environmental influcences, there is growing evidence that dyslexia is neurologically related. Studies using EEG and fMRI have shown differences in both brain activity and brain structure between children with dyslexia compared to those without. According to one study, even at rest, children with dyslexia exhibit different measurements in brain frequencies compared to those without. The differences in brain activity are mainly found in what is known as the left temporoparietal area, otherwise known as Wernicke’s area, which plays a major role in language comprehension and processing. Any interference to this area of the brain can cause difficulty with understanding language and sensory integration. [2,3]

Some studies suggest that chiropractic adjustments can help improve cognitive functioning in dyslexic children. Adjustments address misalignments in the spine, ultimately helping to reduce nervous system interference. Swiss chiropractor and president of the Swiss Chiropractic Pediatric Association Dr. Yannick Pauli states that neurodevelopmental disorders often involve dysfunction in the cerebellum, which helps to coordinate and integrate sensory information. In addition, the cerebellum also helps to regulate the speed in which the brain is able to process that information. Dr. Pauli makes the point of if stress causes misalignments in the spine, the brain cannot be properly stimulated, therefore leading to further dysfunction and dysregulation. [4]

While chiropractic care does not replace traditional help for dyslexia, it can serve as a form of complementary care to improve the brain function with these children. Many parents have reported improvements in their children's reading abilities and overall well-being after receiving chiropractic care in conjunction with educational interventions.  We have seen children actually jump reading levels and even grade levels after starting chiropractic care coupled with dietary modification and neurological exercises!

References

[1] Prevalence of Developmental Dyslexia in Primary School Children: A ...

[2] EEG correlates of developmental dyslexia: a systematic review

[3] Neural Basis of Dyslexia: A Comparison between Dyslexic and Nondyslexic ...

[4] The Effects of Chiropractic Care on Individuals Suffering from Learning ...