FBP

Chiropractic Care for Children with Autism

There are an increasing number of parents seeking chiropractic care for children with autism, and for good reason. Many parents are beginning to see the benefits of chiropractic care for their children.

Autism is a neurological disorder that affects how people communicate and interact with others. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to chiropractic care for children with autism, as each child’s needs will vary.


What is ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)?

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate, interact with others, and focus their attention.

ASD can range from mild to severe in symptoms, and core symptoms can appear in early childhood. ASD is four times more likely to occur in boys than girls. While there is no cure for ASD, there are care plans that can help improve symptoms and allow people with ASD to lead happy and successful lives.

Early diagnosis and intervention are key to allowing children to live a positive and fulfilled life with ASD. If you suspect that your child may have ASD, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s doctor for more information and alternative therapies.


Spectrums of Autistic Children

Autism spectrum disorders affect neurological function, including impaired social interactions, communication, and restricted behavioral patterns. There are five categories of autism, including classic autism, described above. Below are the other four categories.


Asperger’s

Asperger’s disorder, or Asperger’s syndrome, is a form of autism. Autistic children with Asperger’s syndrome may have difficulty with social interactions, avoid eye contact, and show repetitive behaviors. They may also have restricted interests, such as an intense focus on one particular topic. At the same time, people with Asperger’s syndrome can be high-functioning, but many people experience challenges daily.


Pervasive Development Disorder

A pervasive development disorder (PDD) is a condition that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. PDD can manifest itself in several ways, including problems with social skills, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors. The exact cause of PDD is unknown and it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There is no cure for PDD, but early intervention can help improve symptoms and allow people with the condition to lead fulfilling lives.


Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

When a child experiences significant differences between their expected development and their actual development, this is known as a childhood disintegration disorder. There are many possible causes for this condition, including genetic defects, physical damage to the brain, or exposure to toxins.

Symptoms can vary widely but may include delays in motor skills, speech, and social skills. In some cases, autistic children with this condition may also demonstrate signs of anxiety or depression.


Rett’s Syndrome

Rett syndrome is a neurological disorder on the autism disorder spectrum that usually begins to develop at an early age. The most common symptom is a gradual loss of coordination and purposeful hand movements, followed by a loss of speech and the development of repetitive motions.

In some cases, children with Rett syndrome may also experience seizures, intellectual disability, and irritable bowel syndrome. Early intervention and therapy can help improve your child’s quality of life.


How Does Autism Affect the Nervous System?

Studies have shown that Autism Spectrum Disorders affect the central nervous system in various ways. For example, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been linked to abnormalities in the structure and function of certain brain regions and abnormal levels of certain neurotransmitters. These abnormalities can lead to the symptoms of ASD. In addition, ASD is associated with inflammation of the brain and spinal cord. This inflammation can further contribute to the symptoms of ASD.


Is Chiropractic Care Safe For Children With Autism?

Many children with autism also have sensory processing issues, making everyday activities, such as getting a haircut or riding in a car, extremely difficult. As a result, some parents may worry that chiropractic care, which involves spinal manipulation, maybe too intense for children with autism.

However, studies have shown that chiropractic care is safe for children with autism and can even help to reduce some of the symptoms associated with the disorder. For example, one study found that chiropractic care effectively reduced self-injurious behaviors in children with autism.

Chiropractic care can help to improve sleep and reduce stress levels in children and is a popular alternative therapy. When your child is dealing with spinal misalignment, this can throw more than just their body “out of wack.” It can affect many other areas of their life, including emotions, stress, digestive system, and sleep.


Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Autism in Children

Chiropractic adjustments help to release tension in the body and improve overall functioning. Chiropractic care can also help relieve stomach pain, back or neck pain, headaches, and fatigue, which are common symptoms of autism. As a result, it can help children with autism to feel more comfortable in their bodies and improve their quality of life.


Visit ADIO Chiropractic Care For Specialized Care

Parents of children with autism often struggle to find effective treatments that relieve their child’s symptoms. While there is no cure for autism, many families have found relief through chiropractic care. At ADIO Chiropractic, we specialize in providing gentle, safe, and effective chiropractic care for young autistic patients and children with various special needs.

Our team of experienced chiropractors can help relieve a wide range of autism symptoms, including gastrointestinal issues, sleep problems, anxiety, and behavioral issues. If you are looking for an alternative care option for your child with autism, we encourage you to visit our team and schedule an appointment at ADIO Chiropractic. We are here to help!

We look forward to hearing from you!

Request an appointment online or contact us by phone at (608) 824-0950

More blog posts

The Vagus Nerve: Your Body’s Secret Superhighway to Better Health and Wellness

Have you ever wondered why taking deep breaths helps calm your anxiety, or why your stomach seems to "know" when you're stressed? The answer lies in a remarkable nerve that acts as a communication superhighway between your brain and body: the vagus nerve. At ADIO...

Finding Relief from Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD) During Pregnancy: A Natural Approach

Pregnancy is a beautiful journey filled with anticipation and joy, but for many expectant mothers, it can also bring unexpected challenges. One condition that affects nearly 1 in 5 pregnant women is Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction, or SPD.  If you've experienced sharp...

ADHD and Chiropractic Care: A Natural Approach to Supporting Attention and Focus in Children

As parents, we all want our children to thrive, learn, and grow with confidence. When a child struggles with attention, focus, and behavioral regulation—hallmarks of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)—it affects the entire family. At ADIO Chiropractic, we...

Sensory Processing Challenges in Children: A Natural Chiropractic Approach for Middleton Families

As parents in the Middleton and Madison area, we all want to see our children thrive. But for some families, everyday activities can become overwhelming battles. The sound of a vacuum cleaner that sends your child into tears. The tags on clothes that feel like...

Meet the ADIO Chiropractic Family: The Best Pediatric and Prenatal Chiropractors in Middleton, WI

At ADIO Chiropractic in Middleton, Wisconsin, we believe that exceptional family wellness care begins with exceptional people. Our team of specialized pediatric and prenatal chiropractors is more than just healthcare providers—we're a family committed to nurturing...

Constipation in Kids: Natural Solutions for Better Digestive Health

As parents, we understand how challenging it can be when your little one is struggling with constipation. Not only is it uncomfortable for your child, but it can also lead to irritability, decreased appetite, and even affect their overall wellbeing. At ADIO...

Understanding Torticollis: A Natural Approach from Your Middleton Chiropractor

As pediatric chiropractors serving Middleton, Madison, and greater Dane County, Wisconsin, one of the most common concerns we see in our youngest patients is torticollis. That tilted head position with a strong preference to look one way can cause worry and...

Parental Burnout: Understanding the Mind-Body Connection

Parenting is one of life's most rewarding journeys, but it can also be incredibly demanding. Many Middleton parents today are experiencing what experts call "parental burnout" - a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by the chronic stress of...

Nightmares & Night Terrors: A Natural Approach from Your Middleton Chiropractor

As a pediatric chiropractor serving Middleton, Madison, and greater Dane County, Wisconsin, we've helped many families through sleep challenges. But my understanding of nightmares and nervous system connection became deeply personal when my own son started...

Understanding Childhood Anxiety: Beyond “Just Worry”

Before discussing alternatives, it's important to understand what's really happening in your child's body when anxiety strikes. While anxiety can feel like it's "all in their head," it creates very real physical responses:         Racing heart         Stomach aches  ...