Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes various neurodevelopmental disorders that affect communication and social interaction. There is currently no cure for autism, but there are alternative therapies that can help autistic patients live normal and productive lives. Chiropractic care for children with autism is an option that has shown great promise in assisting children in achieving their fullest potential.
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What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) includes Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and Classic Autism. ASD affects an estimated 1 in 68 children in the United States, making it more common than juvenile both diabetes and pediatric AIDS combined.
ASD can range from mild to severe, and symptoms typically appear in early childhood. People with ASD often have difficulty with social interaction and are sometimes uninterested in interacting with other people. They may also have repetitive behaviors or speech patterns and may be sensitive to changes in their environment.
There is no single cause, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Autism spectrum disorder is a lifelong condition, but many health care options can improve symptoms and help people with ASD live full and rewarding lives.
There are Various Forms of Autism
There is no one-size-fits-all definition of ASD, as it manifests itself in different ways among different people.
Asperger’s Syndrome
Asperger’s Syndrome is a form of autism characterized by difficulty with social interaction and repetitive behaviors. People with Asperger’s often have trouble reading social cues and may seem aloof in social situations. They may also be fixated on specific topics or activities and have difficulty switching between tasks.
While Asperger’s Syndrome can be challenging, many people are highly intelligent and live successful lives. With the proper support, people with Asperger’s Syndrome can learn to navigate the social world and develop strong relationships.
Rett Syndrome
Rett Syndrome is a rare neurological disorder that primarily affects females and causes various developmental problems. The syndrome is characterized by normal early development followed by a period of regression. People lose purposeful use of their hands, develop problems with language and speech, and begin to experience social withdrawal and repetitive movements.
Rett Syndrome is caused by a mutation in the MECP2 gene, which is responsible for encoding a protein that helps regulate other genes’ activity. There is currently no cure for Rett Syndrome, but early intervention and supportive care can help to improve quality of life. In recent years, researchers have made significant progress in understanding the causes and effects of Rett Syndrome. Much work remains in developing effective care options.
Child Disintegrated Disorder (CDD)
Child Disintegrative Disorder is a rare condition that affects children around four years old. It is characterized by a sudden and dramatic loss of previously acquired skills, such as speech, social, and motor skills. In some cases, children with child disintegrative disorder may also develop new, unusual behaviors, such as aggression or self-injury. The exact cause of child disintegrative disorder is unknown, but it is believed to be related to genetic and environmental factors.
Kanner’s Syndrome
Kanner’s Syndrome is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. The exact cause of Kanner’s Syndrome is unknown, but it is also thought to be associated with genetic and environmental factors. People with Kanner’s Syndrome typically have difficulty understanding social cues and may withdraw from social interactions. They may also have repetitive behaviors and restricted interests.
Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
Pervasive Developmental Disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) is a diagnosis used to describe children who have difficulties with social interaction and communication but do not meet the full criteria for autism or another related disorder. PDD-NOS is often referred to as “subthreshold autism.”
While the symptoms of PDD-NOS can be milder than those of other autism spectrum disorders, they can still cause significant impairment in day-to-day functioning. Children with PDD-NOS may have difficulty making eye contact, engaging in back-and-forth conversation, or reading nonverbal cues. They may also exhibit repetitive behaviors.
Early intervention is critical for children with PDD-NOS, as it can help to lessen the severity of symptoms and improve long-term outcomes. A variety of therapies, including behavior therapy, speech therapy, and chiropractic care can be helpful for PDD-NOS.
Challenges Autistic Children Face
Autistic children often face challenges that other children do not. They may struggle to communicate their needs and may become overstimulated easily.
- Communication and interaction skills: Many autistic children have difficulty communicating and interacting with others. This can make it hard for them to make friends and engage with their peers.
- Sensory processing: Some autistic children have sensory processing issues, making everyday activities such as going to the grocery store or getting a haircut incredibly challenging.
- Organization and planning: Many autistic children struggle with executive functioning skills such as planning and organizing. This can make it difficult to complete school assignments or household chores.
- Various physical impairments: Children with autism also may suffer from sleep disorders, irritable bowel syndrome, and autoimmune disorders.
While challenges are a part of life for all children, autistic children often face unique challenges that require special understanding and support.
Can a Chiropractor Help Autism?
Chiropractors are health care professionals who focus on diagnosing and caring for musculoskeletal disorders and spinal misalignment. While chiropractic care is often associated with adults, it can also benefit children, including those with autism. Many children with autism experience sensory issues, gastrointestinal problems, and sleep disturbances, and prescription medication is typically used. Some parents may turn to other health care providers and options like chiropractic care to avoid using medications.
Chiropractors use gentle spinal manipulation to adjust the spine and relieve pressure on the central nervous system. For children with autism, chiropractic care can help to alleviate neck and back pain, improve sleep quality, reduce migraine headaches, and reduce gastrointestinal symptoms.
Chiropractic care can help improve central nervous system function, range of motion, and flexibility, both of which can be difficult for children with autism. As you can see, chiropractic care can provide a wide range of benefits for children with this disorder.
Visiting a Pediatric Chiropractor for Autism
As any parent of a child with autism knows, the condition can be both challenging and rewarding. While children with autism may struggle with social interaction and communication, they often have unique skills and talents.
One way to help children with autism reach their full potential is by seeking chiropractic care for your child. Chiropractic care can help to improve coordination and sensory processing and relieve stress and anxiety—all areas that are often impaired in children with autism. Regular visits to a pediatric chiropractor can be an important part of caring for a child with autism.
Dr. Eric’s goal is to align the spine so the nervous system can function optimally and the body can work its best. When your child is physically feeling their best, they can mentally feel better and do better in other aspects of their life. Schedule an appointment today for your child and see how our team can help the whole family.
