ADHD and Migraines Helped with Chiropractic

The Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research published a case study on December 5, 2014, discussing chiropractic care helping a patient with both ADHD and migraines. Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) was first described by Sir George Still in 1902.

According to the CDC, the rate of ADHD has increased an average of 3% per year from 1997 to 2006, and increased to 5% from the years 2007 to 2011. The rate of ADHD diagnosis varies greatly per state with it estimated that currently 6.4 million children between the ages of 4 and 17 have been diagnosed nationally. As of 2011, 6.1% of all children between the ages of 4 and 17 were taking ADHD medications. This is up from 4.8% on these meds in 2008.

In this case study, a 21-year-old man went to the chiropractor suffering from symptoms of ADHD, migraines, anxiety, depression, insomnia, neck pain, and back stiffness. He was taking a number of medications for his problems including paracetamol, codeine, ibuprofen, and valium. The history noted that the man had been suffering from migraine headaches since age 4 that were accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and blurred vision.

A standardized test known as the ADHD Symptom Regularity and Severity Questionnaire was given to the man before the onset of care, and later during care, to monitor the changes to his ADHD condition from the chiropractic care. In addition, the man was also given a standardized headache questionnaire to measure the changes he may experience with his headaches.

After a chiropractic examination, care was initiated to correct subluxations. Each of the questionnaires was then repeated and documented improvements in both his ADHD scores and his migraine headache rating.

In their conclusion the authors wrote, "This case study illustrates the positive outcomes of a twenty one year old male with signs and symptoms of ADHD and migraine headaches...." The authors continued by explaining, "Subjective decreases in the regularity and severity of symptoms of ADHD and migraine headaches were reached. Objective results in functional improvement were seen with tonal indicators of subluxation, heart rate variability, posture and ranges of motion."