Chiroblog

ADHD 2.0: New Science and Essential Strategies for Thriving with Distraction—from Childhood Through Adulthood, by Drs. Edward Hallowell and John Ratey, presents a neuroscience-informed approach to understanding and managing ADHD. The book explores how ADHD is a different brain wiring that can be harnessed for creativity, resilience, and success. Central to their explanation is the interaction between two brain networks—the Default Mode Network (DMN), responsible for imagination and internal thought, and the Task Positive Network (TPN), which governs focus and task execution. In ADHD brains, these networks struggle to work together efficiently, leading to distractibility and mental "glitchiness." The authors also highlight the cerebellum’s role in attention and emotional regulation (a relatively new finding), suggesting that targeted physical activities—like balance exercises—can strengthen this brain region and improve ADHD symptoms. Neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire, is a recurring theme, offering hope that with the right interventions, individuals with ADHD can thrive.

Pediatric chiropractic involves gentle spinal adjustments and exercises aimed at improving nervous system function and balance—areas closely tied to cerebellar and brain health. By enhancing proprioception and reducing neurological interference, chiropractic care can support structured movement and sensory integration. Additionally, chiropractic’s holistic philosophy aligns with the book’s call for personalized, multi-modal strategies that include physical activity, nutrition, emotional support, and environmental structure. Though more clinical research is needed to establish firm connections, the neurological insights in ADHD 2.0 provide a compelling framework for exploring how pediatric chiropractic might contribute to ADHD management.

Everyday in our office we see children (and adults) with ADHD and our version of chiropractic care helps calm the nerve system down so that they can do better in school and at home. ADHD is also commonly seen in kids who are also diagnosed with Autism, so helping kids with this dual diagnosis can be very beneficial. Check out https://www.theadjustment.com/ for more information. 

References

[1] ADHD 2.0 Summary and Study Guide | SuperSummary

[2] https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/550868/adhd-20-by-edward-m-hallowell-md-and-john-j-ratey-md/

Children with behavior issues usually suffer from sensory overload, where typical stimuli, like noise, crowds, texture, or lights, are abnormally intense. This is an indication of an over-burdened nervous system that under-filters sensory information. Spinal misalignments, particularly in the upper part of the neck, also disrupt the brain's reception of sensory information, exacerbating behavioral dysregulation and leading to meltdowns or withdrawal. The upper neck is one of the most important parts of the sensory system especially since it is involved in a something called proprioception, which is the sense of where a person is in space.

Gentle and precise chiropractic adjustments return proper vertebral position and reduce nerve interference, which can enhance sensory integration, improve proprioception and allow for better emotional regulation. As the nervous system re-regulates, children can present with greater levels of concentration, calmer responses, and improved adaptation to the environment. This provides the foundation for greater success in social interactions, academics, and daily functioning.

Reference: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22051563/ 

If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD, you might be searching for answers beyond medication. While chiropractic care doesn’t treat ADHD directly, many parents report improvements in their child’s focus, mood, sleep, and overall behavior after chiropractic care begins. ADHD is more than hyperactivity, it’s a neurodevelopmental condition that affects attention, emotional regulation, and executive function. According to Dr. Robert Melillo, author of Disconnected Kids, many children with ADHD experience what he calls Functional Disconnection Syndrome, where the two hemispheres of the brain are not communicating efficiently. “It’s not that the brain is damaged. It’s out of sync. One hemisphere is delayed in development,” he explains. Melillo’s work shows that with the right sensory input and stimulation, the brain can often be “rebalanced,” helping children function better at home, in school, and socially.

Chiropractic care may support that rebalancing process by improving the way the nervous system functions. Gentle adjustments, like the Activator Technique, help reduce stress on the spine and calm “fight or flight” responses that are often heightened in kids with ADHD. This is especially important being that the spine can directly impact brain signaling; “The spine is the gateway to the brain. Every adjustment is a chance to regulate the nervous system,” notes neurophysiologist Dr. Heidi Haavik. Chiropractic can also support better proprioception (the body’s awareness of itself), which is crucial in sensory integration, another challenge for many children with ADHD. Chiropractors who are trained in pediatric and neurological care often incorporate exercises and reflex work alongside adjustments, mirroring the brain-balancing principles outlined in Melillo’s programs. Together, these approaches create a safe, natural way to support your child’s development from the inside out.

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/neuroanatomy/articles/10.3389/fnana.2022.936025/full

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1360859225000762

Chronic stress is an ever-present thread in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), and among the primary players is the vagus nerve; charged with vital tasks including mood regulation, digestion, and stress response. Experiments have shown that vagus nerve stimulation helps regulate the neuroimmune systems and positively affects kids with issues such as Autism, epilepsy, and depression, and other behavioral symptoms. These findings show how chiropractic care through improving vagal tone can reduce global body tension, and assist in establishing a better internal environment for self-regulation.

Early research into chiropractic suggests that spinal adjustment may influence sensorimotor integration, how the body combines touch and motion, through measurable changes. This would be especially relevant to children with Autism, who have sensory processing problems that drive these behaviors of overload, meltdowns, or distraction. By decreasing stress within the body and possibly increasing neural input/output efficiency, adjustments help toward a more regulated nerve system.  What does that really mean?  When a dysregulated vagus nerve becomes more regulated, then the child will be calmer, have less tantrums and meltdowns, digest food better, and overall be a happier child. 

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22051563/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5496407/

A groundbreaking 2025 study has revealed that autism includes four distinct subtypes, each with its own genetic and behavioral patterns. This research, based on data from over 5,000 children, helps explain why autism looks so different from person to person. For example, one group, called “Social/behavioral,” includes kids who have challenges with communication and repetitive behaviors but may reach developmental milestones on time. Another group, “Mixed ASD with Developmental Delay,” shows delays in early development but fewer emotional issues like anxiety. These differences are linked to specific genes that are active at different stages of brain development. The other two groups—“Moderate challenges” and “Broadly affected”—show varying levels of traits and genetic changes, with the latter having more intense symptoms from an early age.

For chiropractic patients and families, this means that understanding autism has become more personalized. Just like chiropractic care is tailored to each patient’s unique needs, autism support in our chiropractic setting now can be further customized based on a child’s subtype. We have been using the Polyvagal Theory since 2010 to help establish what particular protocol of care each child requires each visit, so the 4 new subtype categories can help enhance which direction care will proceed that day. As research continues, these insights could lead to better-targeted therapies and support systems, helping children thrive in ways that match their individual biology and development. 

References:

Four Autism Subtypes:  https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-025-02224-z

Polyvagal Theory:  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9131189/

Some infants frequently arch their necks and backs, especially when they’re uncomfortable or upset. While occasional arching can be a normal part of early development, persistent, forceful, or abnormal arching may be a sign of underlying issues that require further attention. Arching is commonly seen in babies with reflux or colic, where stomach acid or trapped gas can lead to discomfort. In cases of reflux, arching is often accompanied by other signs such as frequent spit-up, irritability after feeding, or trouble lying flat. Colic, on the other hand, is typically characterized by prolonged crying episodes, often occurring in the evening, and may be linked to gastrointestinal or nervous system sensitivity.

Another possible explanation is something called ‘dural tension’. The dura mater, a connective tissue that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, adheres to the vertebral column and cranial bones. When tension, tightness, or irritation is present in the dura, it can cause discomfort in an infant, leading them to arch their backs in an attempt to relieve it.  Many of these infants with dural tension may move in stiff ways, may have tightness in their joints, and may commonly seem to be physically uncomfortable.  For example, by 3 months of age, children should have more relaxed hands, but kids with dural tension may still hold their hands in a tight fist.

According to research and pediatric practitioners, dural tension may impact the nervous system, leading to issues beyond physical discomfort. Potential symptoms include poor sleep patterns, difficulties with feeding and latching, and excessive crying. Given that the nervous system is still developing in infants, even the slightest imbalances or irritations can have noticeable impact. This is particularly true in the first three months of life, a period sometimes referred to as the “fourth trimester”.

In terms of conservative treatment, pediatric-focused chiropractors use gentle techniques, such as craniosacral therapy, a special spinal adjustment called sustained contact, or gastrointestinal massage, to help relieve this tension. These approaches focus on enhancing mobility and alignment of the spine and cranial bones, which may help alleviate pressure on the nervous system. While higher-quality research is needed to confirm these connections, early observation and supportive care can make a big difference in a baby’s development and well-being.

Reference:  https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pediatrics/articles/10.3389/fped.2021.668457/full

A child who is receiving chiropractic treatments is potentially happier and healthier. When you take your child to the chiropractor you not only help them, but you make your life easier, too. Here are the "Top 10 Reasons Why Kids Like Chiropractic." 

1. To encourage good neural plasticity (brain and nerve development).
2. To support “first-class” nerve communication throughout the body to promoting health and wellbeing.
3. To help strengthen their child’s immunity – encouraging fewer colds, ear-aches and general illness.
4. To help resolve breastfeeding issues and colic.
5. To reduce the detrimental impact our modern world has on our children’s health.
6. Encourages children to thrive by supporting digestive strength.
7. To diminish nerve interference which may impact their child’s capacity to learn and concentrate.
8. To promote body balance – helping to resolve poor posture, asthma, allergies and bed-wetting.
9. To help kids stay fun and light hearted.
10. To help kids stay in tip-top shape.

Source: WellAdjusted.com

In its early stages as an infant, the human brain consists of a network of approximately 100 billion neurons. As we grow and develop, this network undergoes a process referred to as “synaptic pruning”, where excess neurons and synaptic connections are eliminated to enhance the efficiency of the more necessary neural circuits. Essentially, this process is the brain’s way of fine-tuning itself and ensuring that the most frequently used connections are strengthened which creates a more efficient and adaptable nerve system. It is the ultimate ‘use-it-or-lose-it’ process that the brain uses to create the best version of itself.  

Synaptic pruning in some cases can be disrupted. For instance, over-pruning and under-pruning have been linked to various neurological conditions such as autism, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Any sort of intervention that helps the brain learn and grow, from exercising to having new experiences and even chiropractic care, can improve neuroplasticity, which may help with pruning. 

Synaptic Pruning & Neural Wiring During Development

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7368197/

Early signs of motor delays in infants can sometimes be very subtle. Infants who show signs of head tilt (where the head leans to one side) or head lag (where the head falls backward when pulled to sit) may be experiencing delays in neurological coordination. These signs can be early indicators of conditions like torticollis (tight neck muscles) or hypotonia (low muscle tone), which can affect how a baby moves, develops, and feels. Normally, by around 3 months of age, babies should begin holding their heads up steadily. If they continue to struggle with head control, it may signal the need for further evaluation.

More and more parents are turning to chiropractic care as a gentle, non-invasive option to support their baby’s development. Chiropractors specially trained in pediatrics use very gentle adjustments to help improve spinal alignment and reduce tension in the muscles and nervous system.

That’s why early detection is so important. A baby’s brain is most adaptable in the first few years of life. With early support, many children with low tone can make great progress. That is why pediatric chiropractors check for these signs. When detected early, chiropractic care and the appropriate home exercises can help strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and support healthy brain development—giving your child the best chance to reach their full potential.

One of our favorite advanced tummy time exercises is doing tummy time with head rotation. After placing the baby on their tummy, the parent holds their favorite noise-making toy to encourage the child to first lift their head, then turn it to one side and then the other. Tummy time is important not only for helping infants lift their heads but also for promoting side-to-side eye movement. [2]. Practicing these small movements consistently can influence improvements to early motor skills and future milestones.

References

[1] Motor Delays: Early Identification and Evaluation | Pediatrics ...

[2] Tummy Time Progress, Pathways.org

Autism, ADHD, Allergies, and Asthma, otherwise known as the 4 A’s, are rapidly becoming more prevalent among children. Each of these conditions have skyrocketed over the past twenty years, with Autism rates alone seeing an tremendous increase, from 1 in 10,000 in the 1970’s to 1 in 31 today [1].  Leading medical professionals have found that factors such as toxins, nutritional deficiencies, genetics, and metabolic imbalances contribute significantly to the development and progression of these conditions. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr stated in his MAHA report that there are several possible reasons for such a rise in these issues: poor diet, environmental chemicals, lack of physical activity, chronic stress and over-medication [2].

Dr. Kenneth Bock, an integrative medicine doctor, dives into this topic in his book Healing the New Childhood Epidemics. Through case studies and evidence-based research, Dr Bock explains how finding the root cause of each of these disorders is crucial in providing the most effective care for the younger generation. His book outlines how individualized nutritional therapy, supplementation, detoxification, and other holistic interventions can help in managing the 4 A’s. 

His approach challenges the typical medical perspectives in advocating for care beyond symptom management and using only traditional health care providers. Factors such as toxins and metabolic imbalances can manifest in each child differently, resulting in a broad span of symptoms that often lead to misdiagnosis and improper treatments. Dr. Bock's book emphasizes the interconnectedness of the 4 A’s and the importance of addressing their root causes rather than just managing symptoms. 

By understanding the underlying issues, parents and health care providers can better support children, offering hope for improved health and quality of life. This book can serve as a guide for parents seeking answers and alternative solutions for their child.  And chiropractic fits right in as an alternative health care practitioner who will address more of the root causes of issues rather than cover up symptoms.  Just today, we explained to a new patient that we are brain-based chiropractors who focus on evaluating the brain and nerve system and her comment was, “that is exactly what I am looking for with my child!”

1. Prevalence and Early Identification of Autism Spectrum Disorder

2. The MAHA Report

3.  Healing the New Childhood Epidemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma, and ...