Understanding ADHD: A Neurological Perspective

Written By Healthy Families Chiro

Understanding ADHD Through a Neurological Lens

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily functioning and development. While all children can exhibit these behaviours occasionally, those with ADHD experience them more frequently and intensely, often in ways that aren’t age-appropriate. It’s also important to remember that ADHD can look different in every child, no two experiences are exactly the same.

Neurological Underpinnings

ADHD is linked to dysregulation in the nervous system, particularly within the prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for executive functions like attention, behaviour regulation, and decision-making. Disruptions in this region can affect how the brain processes information and responds to stimuli, often making it harder for children to filter distractions or manage impulses.

Contributing Factors

Several factors may contribute to the development and expression of ADHD, including:

  • Birth Trauma: Complications during birth can impact nervous system development from day one.

  • Overstimulation: Excessive exposure to screens and fast-paced environments may overwhelm developing brains.

  • Chronic Stress: Prolonged stress can disrupt the balance of the autonomic nervous system, affecting attention and behaviour.

Chiropractic Care and ADHD

A neurologically focused approach to ADHD emphasises the importance of assessing and supporting the health of the nervous system. At Healthy Families Chiropractic, we use the following strategies to support kids with ADHD:

  • INSiGHT Scans: These non-invasive scans evaluate nervous system function and highlight areas of imbalance or dysregulation.

  • Chiropractic Adjustments: Gentle, targeted adjustments help improve communication between the brain and body by stimulating the spine and brainstem. Each adjustment has the potential to positively influence the prefrontal cortex, improving focus, emotional regulation, and sensory processing.

  • Personalised Care Plans: Every child is unique, and their care should be too. Our care plans are tailored to support each child’s individual needs and help restore balance in their nervous system.

Our focus is on calming the overactive stress response that keeps a child’s nervous system stuck in high gear. Each adjustment is designed to activate the body’s “brake pedal”, the parasympathetic nervous system, helping bring the nervous system back into balance.

The Bigger Picture of ADHD

ADHD is more than just behaviour or attention challenges, it’s rooted in how the brain and nervous system process, filter, and respond to the world. When kids are stuck in a chronic “fight or flight” response, it can affect:

  • Impulse regulation

  • Digestion

  • Immune function

  • Emotional control

  • Sleep quality

  • Sensory processing

Supporting the nervous system helps shift your child out of stress and into a state of growth, connection, and calm.

Consistency Is Key

Nervous system healing doesn’t happen in a single adjustment. Like brushing teeth or building healthy habits, change comes with repetition. If you don’t see immediate results, know that each visit is laying the foundation for long-term growth, balance, and resilience. Healing happens in layers so stick with it. You’re doing an amazing job.

What the Research Tells Us

Chiropractic neuroscience research by Dr. Heidi Haavik has shown that adjustments can influence how the brain processes sensory input, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. This is especially relevant for children with ADHD. Her studies suggest that chiropractic care may:

  • Reduce sensory overwhelm

  • Improve attention and focus

  • Support behavioural and emotional regulation

What You Can Do at Home

You’re a vital part of your child’s healing journey. Here are some simple, nervous-system-friendly strategies to support them outside the practice:

  • Movement breaks: Activities like jumping, spinning, climbing, or swinging help regulate the vestibular system (the brain’s balance and motion centre) and release excess energy. This is especially helpful earlier in the day and preferably before school if they struggle in class.

  • Limit screen time: Fast-changing images and blue light can overstimulate the brain and make regulation harder.

  • Create rhythm and routine: Predictability helps your child’s brain feel safe, grounded, and settled.

  • Practice co-regulation: When you stay calm, your child can “borrow” your calm to regulate themselves.

  • Prioritise nutrition: Focus on protein, healthy fats, and hydration to support brain development, mood stability, and focus.

Healthy Families Chiro