Chiropractic can be described as the branch of alternative medicine that focuses on the prevention and restoration of health by detecting and correcting misalignments of vertebrae of the spinal column.

The spinal column offers structural support but also protects the spinal cord — which is responsible for relaying messages to and from the brain via nerves. When vertebrae are misaligned, tension is placed on the nerves; thereby affecting how nerve impulses travel throughout the body to them brain.

Misalignments, or subluxations, result from poor posture, muscular imbalances, traumatic events, repetitive motion injuries, muscular trauma and neurological disfunction.

A chiropractor administers a gently thrust to specific areas of the spine to reduce tension caused by the subluxations. Doctors of Chiropractic are able to care for children with special needs, such as autistic children. For instance, if a muscular imbalance is found during the examination, an adjustment enables the brain to better communicate with the rest of the body by reducing interference.

In a series of case studies, researchers noted that 50% of autistic children experienced behavioral improvements following Chiropractic care. Improvements were made in the following areas: picking up toys, use of sign language, reduction of self abuse and appropriate use of language.

Cognitive Developmental progress has also been noted. Prior to getting Chiropractic care, one seven-year- old autistic child would slowly turn in circles, singing a incomprehensible song with a blank expression and glazed stare. After 10 months of Chiropractic care, she was able to carry out commands, carry on a conversation, dress and groom herself, read and retain information, and participate in school.

Chiropractic can also calm hyperactivity through improving joint mobility, which will also help normalize behavior patterns and improve sleep patterns.

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 2nd, 2009 at 1:32 pm and is filed under Chiropractic for Infants, Health. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.