ADD/ADHD are the result of neurotransmitter imbalances in the chemistry of your brain.

It is believed that ADD/ADHD symptoms are a result of imbalances of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.  The neurotransmitters act like chemical messengers for the brain and nervous system.  The body has an elaborate system of releasing these messengers to stimulate the brain and nervous system then recycling them for future use.  An imbalance of these messengers result in abnormal responses by the brain causing behavioral changes.  Typical reasons for abnormal neurotransmitter levels include allergies, poor absorption of the nutrients necessary to build neurotransmitters, or toxicity.

The most typical medical treatment for ADD/ADHD is the use of drugs that stimulate the release of more neurotransmitters or prevent the recycling of neurotransmitters.  The downside of such treatment is that the nervous system and brain is forced to work harder when it is not capable of doing the job in the first place.

Due to the various causes of ADD/ADHD treatment cannot be a one size fits all solution.  The doctors at Active Health will evaluate multiple factors in order to determine the core of the problem.  Evaluation typically includes a thorough history and examination with any necessary laboratory testing.  In addition to supporting nutritional and allergy issues we incorporate both acupuncture and chiropractic manipulation to help stimulate and balance the nervous system and provide chemical free relief from the effects of ADD/ADHD.

Our multi-faceted approach to treatment at Active Health may include:

  1. Urine based analysis of neurotransmitter levels with laboratory guided nutrition to help naturally increase the levels of neurotransmitter in your body
  2. Allergy and nutritional testing – to determine any nutritional deficiencies, food allergy or chemical sensitivities.  Our doctors can help create a diet for the child or adult suffering from ADD/ADHD.
  3. Physical examination – to determine if there are muscular constrictions blocking energy flow to the brain. These can be usually be relieved via Chiropractic manipulation
  4. Acupuncture – Research suggests that acupuncture stimulates and balances the release of naturally occurring chemicals in the body. Chemicals released via acupuncture can change brain activity. Some studies have shown that acupuncture can have a positive effect on patients with ADD/ADHD

http://www.neurosupport.com/07_ADHD_Final.pdf

http://www.acupuncturetoday.com/mpacms/at/article.php?id=31891

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3148992/