Mutley Chiropractic Clinic - Neuro-behavioural

Helping children with neuro-behavioural problems

Childhood neuro-behavioural disorders share many common features. Learning disabilities imply classroom problems, but these issues manifest in many areas of life.

Dyslexia, dyspraxia, ADD, ADHD, pervasive developmental disorder, OCD; Aspergers syndrome and autism may be viewed as points on a spectrum of developmental difficulties.

Many children diagnosed with ADD show increased levels of specific learning disorders i.e. Maths, reading and written expression disorders. The overlap between conditions on the spectrum is common for example OCD and ADHD can have a 6-33% overlap. (Geller et al 1996)

Numerous investigations have shown that disturbances of the motor systems in individuals with Autism are involved in postural and lower limb motor control (Howard 2000).

It has also been shown that 80% of children diagnosed with dyslexia have some symptoms of dyspraxia and vice versa. (Goddar d 2002)

Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
ADD (Attention deficit disorder)
ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)

The Cause

Many theories have been postulated with regard to the causation of neuro-behavioural disorders, some may be minor contributing factors, others major causative agents, but much of the time it appears to be a cascade of events from the pre-natal period onwards.

Birth trauma resulting in upper cervical restriction of the spine can affect the development of the brain.

There are many other theories and different factors to consider.

The Assessment

The assessment protocols used are designed to identify “incomplete links” in the child’s neurological makeup.

The severity of the individual child’s condition, and ability and willingness to cooperate can be limiting factors.

Reassessments are made after 5-6 treatments.

A lot of the tests used are based on primitive reflexes which we are each born with, most of these reflexes should be suppressed naturally over the first 2-3 years of life, if however they are withheld, this can cause problems with the child’s neurological make-up, which may manifest itself as problems with concentration or reading and writing difficulties.

Treatment

If the examination reveals incomplete neurological linkage or improper integration of the neurological system a treatment plan may be devised.

A full report of findings will be explained to the parents/guardian with an opportunity to ask any questions.

The results may reveal areas of weakness to the vestibular reflexes (which control balance and co-ordination), postural reflexes, eye tracking (having the ability to see at distance (both near and far), or general neurological immaturity.

Treatment is focused on the incomplete neurological links in order to allow the nervous system to catch up in its development.
You may also be advised regarding diet and nutritional supplementation.

The examination and treatment is gentle, pain free and often fun for the child.