A Different Approach for Your Child’s ADHD

If you’re a parent concerned about your child’s ability to focus, sit still, or regulate their emotions, you’ve likely encountered the term ADHD. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder affects millions of children, yet many parents find themselves confused and frustrated by the diagnostic process and treatment options available.

At Freedom Chiropractic, we understand your concerns. The current approach to ADHD diagnosis often relies heavily on behavioral questionnaires and surveys filled out by parents and teachers. While these tools provide valuable information, they don’t tell the complete story of what’s happening in your child’s developing nervous system.

A Neurological Perspective on ADHD

Rather than focusing solely on symptoms, we examine the underlying neurological function that may be contributing to ADHD-like behaviors. Our goal is to understand how your child’s nervous system is functioning and identify areas where it may need support.

The Role of the Autonomic Nervous System

Your child’s autonomic nervous system has two main branches:

Sympathetic Nervous System (“Gas Pedal”)

• Responsible for alertness, energy, and response to stress
• When overactive, can lead to hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty calming down

Parasympathetic Nervous System (“Brake Pedal”)

• Responsible for rest, relaxation, and self-regulation
• When underactive, children struggle with emotional regulation and focus

Research suggests that many children with ADHD symptoms show an imbalance between these two systems – often with an overactive “gas pedal” and an underactive “brake pedal.”

Advanced Neurological Assessment

We use sophisticated scanning technology called INSiGHT scans to measure nervous system function objectively. These scans help us assess the balance between your child’s sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, measure heart rate variability (HRV), which indicates how well the nervous system adapts to stress and identify areas of neurological stress or dysfunction.

This technology allows us to move beyond subjective questionnaires and gain insight into your child’s actual neurological function.

Two Primary Neurological Patterns

Through our clinical experience and neurological testing, we’ve identified two primary patterns that children with ADHD symptoms typically display:

Pattern 1: “Overactive System”

Children with this pattern often show:

• Hyperactivity and difficulty sitting still
• Impulsive behavior and emotional outbursts
• Trouble calming down or winding down for sleep
• High energy but difficulty channeling it productively

Pattern 2: “Underactive System”

Children with this pattern typically demonstrate:

• Difficulty with focus and attention
• Appearing “spacey” or daydreamy
• Low motivation or energy for tasks
• Challenges with organization and follow-through

Some children may show a combination of both patterns, which can make their symptoms particularly confusing for parents and teachers.

Our Neurologically-Focused Approach

Once we understand your child’s specific neurological pattern through our comprehensive assessment, we develop a customized care plan. It’s important to understand that neurological changes take time. Just as it takes time for the nervous system to develop patterns that contribute to ADHD symptoms, it takes time and consistency to help establish healthier neurological patterns.

If you’re seeking answers about your child’s ADHD symptoms and want to explore a neurological approach, we’re here to help. Our team at Freedom Chiropractic is trained in pediatric neurological assessment and care, and we’re committed to supporting your family’s journey toward better health and well-being!