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Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a combination of neurodevelopmental disorders affecting communication and social interaction. While there is no cure for ASD, several alternative therapies can help kids living with autism lead a normal and productive life. If you thought you’ve explored all autistic treatment options, chances are you haven’t considered seeing a chiropractor.
Most people think chiropractors adjust and manipulate the body into submission. However, chiropractors improve the nervous system and spine function, which in turn improves other body systems. Chiropractic adjustments also improve neurological functions, enhancing social behavior, mood, focus, and concentration. If your child is struggling with autistic spectrum disorder, a Chiropractor Portland, OR, can help in the following ways.
1. Offers early interventions
The earlier you identify the signs of ASD, the sooner your child can get the help they need. As mentioned, autism can’t be cured or healed by itself. Affected children live with these issues for the rest of their lives. However, by identifying signs of ASD early, interventions leading to better outcomes are made sooner. Chiropractic care is among the many early interventions that can benefit children with ASD. Chiropractic interventions are also safe for young kids.
2. Improves quality of life
Children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder often show symptoms unrelated to ASD, especially digestive problems and chronic ear infections. A misaligned spine worsens these symptoms because of nerve interference, making spinal adjustment necessary. Chiropractic interventions can help improve spinal misalignment. Minimizing nerve interference by the spine can improve the quality of life of autistic children.
3. Improve immune system function
Chiropractic interventions also significantly improve immune system function. Most children with autism are vulnerable to infections because of compromised immune system function. Nerve interference also plays a role in reducing immune system function. Gentle chiropractic adjustments alleviate nerve interference, improving communication between the body and the brain. This improves immune system function and overall health and wellness for autistic kids.
4. It helps reduce unique challenges
OTZ is an emerging chiropractic technique that helps reduce several challenges faced by autistic children. OTZ interventions focus on realigning the child’s first vertebrae with the skull. Misalignment interferes with normal body processes, especially breathing and sleeping. OTZ alignment helps children with autism spectrum disorder find relief in these areas. If adjusted properly, your child can breathe better and relax effectively. This intervention also calms the natural fight/flight response, which is always high in children with autism.
5. Provides relief and improves another area of concern
Children with autism face several challenges, unlike other kids. They struggle with their:
●
Communication and interaction
skills – Communicating and interacting with other kids is a big challenge for
autistic kids. This makes it hard to make friends and engage with peers.
● Sensory processing – Sensory processing issues make it difficult for autistic children to complete daily activities like shopping.
Autistic children also experience language and speech delays and cognitive behavioral problems. Chiropractic care can address and improve these issues.
Endnote
Most people know chiropractors as alternative medical professionals who diagnose and care for musculoskeletal and spinal issues. While spinal and musculoskeletal issues largely affect adults, chiropractic care also benefits children, especially autistic children. These interventions improve the digestive system, immune function, sleep, and other challenges facing autistic children.