Chiropractic Helps Child with Brain Disorder

Atlanta, GA, May 01, 2009 --(PR.com)-- The research, reported in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic, discussed a case of a child diagnosed with cerebellar ataxia whose problems completely resolved following chiropractic care. Cerebellar ataxia is a disorder that results in balance and coordination problems.

“Research is revealing that there is a relationship between abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system and the brain” stated Dr. Nicoleta Borcean, the author of the paper. “Basic science research shows that the proper development and function of the brain relies on proper structure and movement of the spine from an early age.”

Research has shown not only that the developing brain relies on normal structural integrity and joint movement, but that complex neurochemical communication and pathways involved in helping humans to adapt to their environment and even to “feel good” are tied into spinal biomechanics and their related neurological pathways.

“It makes perfect sense when you think about it” stated Dr. Borcean. “The brain constantly needs and wants to know where our body is in space. If there is interference with the neurological communication between the spine and the brain all sorts of malfunctions can occur.”

Researchers studying the connection between chiropractic and neurological disorders believe that these types of functional disorders and even the increase in the diagnosis of such disorders as ADHD, pervasive developmental disorder, Tourette’s Syndrome, obsessive compulsive disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders, have their root in abnormal spinal development.

“There are very important functional relationships between the spine and the brain that if disturbed can result in a host of problems with how the brain functions” remarked Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study.

According to McCoy “Children’s nervous systems need the constant stimulation of movement in order to develop and function properly. Abnormal position or movement of the spinal vertebra can develop and this can lead to nerve interference. It is this interference, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct.”

The child reported on in the study, though otherwise healthy, suffered from balance and coordination problems and experienced improvement after just four chiropractic visits. The author of the study called for more research on the role of chiropractic care in these types of disorders.

###