ASD
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that influences an individual’s perception and socialization with others, resulting in challenges related to social interaction and communication. It can also lead to the manifestation of restricted and repetitive behavioral patterns.
ASD typically manifests in early childhood, with most children displaying symptoms during their first year of life. In rare instances, a small number of children may initially develop typically in their first year, only to experience a regression in their abilities between 18 and 24 months of age, leading to the emergence of autism-related symptoms.
Risk Factors
The incidence of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnoses is on the rise. However, it remains uncertain whether this increase is a result of enhanced detection and reporting, an actual surge in the number of cases, or a combination of both.
ASD can affect children from all racial and national backgrounds, but certain factors can heighten a child’s susceptibility to the disorder. These factors may encompass:
1. Child’s Gender: Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder compared to girls.
2. Family History: Families with a prior history of autism have an increased risk of having another child with the disorder.
3. Coexisting Conditions: Some children with other related disorders may face an elevated risk of ASD.
4. Extremely Premature Birth: Babies born prematurely, particularly those who are extremely preterm, may be at a heightened risk of developing autism.
5. Parental Age: There may be a correlation between children born to older parents and an increased likelihood of developing autism.
How Is ASD Treated?
Although there is no cure for autism spectrum disorder, treatment can have a significant positive impact on the lives of many children.
The primary objective of treatment is to enhance your child’s functioning by mitigating the symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorder. Early intervention during the preschool years can facilitate the acquisition of essential social, communication, functional, and behavioral skills.
Typical treatment approaches encompass:
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Behavioral and communication therapies.
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Educational therapies.
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Family-based therapies.
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Medication options.
How Long Does It Take To See Results?
Some patients have reported experiencing noticeable improvements after just a single visit, although it is advisable to pursue a treatment plan involving ongoing chiropractic adjustments.
Given the unique nature of each individual’s situation, it is essential to undergo a thorough chiropractic evaluation to accurately assess your child’s specific needs.
Conclusion
If your child has received a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder, we welcome you to arrange an appointment at our chiropractic practice. During this appointment, one of our skilled doctors will conduct a thorough evaluation of your child’s condition, make an accurate diagnosis, and establish a treatment plan designed to enhance their functionality, alleviate symptoms, and enhance their overall quality of life.
What causes ASD?
The origin of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is not attributed to a single known cause. Given its intricate nature and the variability in symptoms and their severity, it is likely influenced by a multitude of factors, with genetics and the environment both playing potential roles.
ASD is thought to involve several distinct genes. In certain cases, children with ASD may have an association with a genetic disorder, such as Rett syndrome or fragile X syndrome. In other instances, the risk of developing ASD may be heightened by genetic mutations.
Furthermore, ongoing research is investigating the possible involvement of various factors, such as viral infections, medication exposure, pregnancy-related complications, and environmental pollutants, in the initiation of ASD.
Complications from ASD
Autism spectrum disorder can result in challenges related to social interactions, communication, and behavior, often resulting in:
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Difficulties in educational settings and with achieving successful learning outcomes.
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Employment-related challenges.
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Dependency on others for independent living.
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Experiences of social isolation.
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Increased stress within the family.
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A higher likelihood of victimization and bullying.
Chiropractic for Treating ASD
Chiropractic care as a treatment option for autism spectrum disorder is frequently underestimated because it does not directly target a specific disease. Nonetheless, chiropractic care is geared toward optimizing the body’s functionality, a factor that has demonstrated effectiveness in alleviating autism symptoms and promoting development and learning.
The increasing prevalence of case studies showcasing notable improvements in children with autism spectrum disorder following chiropractic care is noteworthy.
Research Supporting Treatment of ASD with Chiropractic
The case study titled “Chiropractic Care and Behavior in Autistic Children,” which was published in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, outlines the progress of 26 randomly selected autistic children who underwent 9 months of upper cervical-specific chiropractic care. Throughout this period, they underwent four examinations to monitor their behavior and neurological responses. The assessment tools employed included the Childhood Autism Rating Scale and Modified Autism Behavior Checklist.
Notable improvements observed in the children during the study encompassed:
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Discontinuation of medications (such as Ritalin and Dexadrine)
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Enhanced bladder control
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Improved digestion
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Progress in speech development
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Reduced incidents of ear infections
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Diminished occurrences of chronic colds
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Enhanced quality of sleep
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Improved eyesight
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Enhanced behavioral patterns
– Five children successfully integrated into full-time inclusion classroom settings for the first time.
Another case study, titled “Case Study – Autism,” and published in Chiropractic Pediatrics, focuses on a seven-year-old female diagnosed with autism, who had a history of sexual and physical abuse. She displayed a pattern of slowly turning in circles while singing an unintelligible song, often with a vacant expression.
Upon spinal examination, a right posterior and superior C1 subluxation was identified. The child received adjustments twice a week. After 10 months of chiropractic care, she exhibited improved communication skills, the ability to follow commands, and cognitive development that allowed her to learn, read, and participate in public school.
In the case study titled “Developmental Communication Disorder,” published in Today’s Chiropractic, a two-year-old boy diagnosed with this disorder displayed non-responsiveness to external stimuli, including injections, sounds, or touch. Chiropractic analysis revealed a C2 subluxation. After commencing chiropractic adjustments, the child exhibited his first response on the third visit by crying. Subsequent progress included following commands and ceasing repetitive hand motions, and he started speaking after his 12th office visit. Currently, the child has developed an extensive vocabulary and displays slight hyperactivity, highlighting his remarkable progress in making up for lost time.
