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ADHD & Sensory Struggles? How Chiropractic Can Help Your Child Thrive Naturally

Portrait of Dr. Jonathan Johnson of Pinnacle Chiropractic — Pediatric and Prenatal Chiropractor in Lakewood Ranch, FL.
Dr. Jonathan Johnson
March 6, 2025
A child with ADHD receives a nervous system based chiropractic adjustment.

At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we know how overwhelming it can be to support a child with ADHD and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). From difficulty focusing in school to emotional outbursts and sensory overload, these challenges affect not just your child, but the entire family.

Many parents feel stuck between conventional treatments that don’t address the root cause and the search for a natural, drug-free solution that actually works. That’s where we come in. Our nervous system-based chiropractic care is designed to help your child regulate their sensory input, improve focus, and function at their highest potential.

Understanding ADHD and Sensory Processing Challenges

What is ADHD?

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a neurological condition characterized by inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These symptoms can make daily tasks—like sitting still, following directions, or completing homework—feel impossible for some kids.

While medications are often prescribed, they don’t work for every child and don’t address the underlying neurological imbalances contributing to ADHD symptoms.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)?

SPD occurs when the brain has difficulty receiving, processing, and responding to sensory information. Some children with SPD are hypersensitive, reacting strongly to bright lights, loud noises, or certain textures, while others are under-responsive, constantly seeking movement and stimulation.

Many children with ADHD also struggle with sensory processing challenges, as both conditions involve dysregulation in the nervous system.

The Nervous System and ADHD/SPD: What’s the Connection?

At the root of ADHD and SPD lies an overwhelmed and overstimulated nervous system. When the nervous system is stuck in a fight-or-flight response, it becomes difficult for a child to focus, regulate emotions, or process sensory input properly.

Misalignments in the spine—especially in the upper neck—can contribute to this dysfunction, making it harder for the brain to regulate sensory information and behavior.

That’s why our approach focuses on balancing the nervous system through gentle pediatric chiropractic care.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Kids with ADHD and SPD

At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we take a neurologically-based approach to care. Our focus is on correcting nervous system interference so your child’s brain and body can communicate and function optimally.

Key Benefits of Chiropractic Care for ADHD and SPD:

Calms an Overactive Nervous System – Gentle adjustments help regulate the fight-or-flight response, making it easier for kids to stay calm and focused.

Improves Sensory Processing – When the nervous system functions properly, the brain can interpret and respond to sensory input more effectively.

Enhances Focus and Attention – Better nervous system function leads to improved concentration, emotional control, and impulse regulation.

Supports Emotional Regulation – Kids who struggle with meltdowns and mood swings often experience a sense of calm after regular chiropractic care.

Improves Sleep Patterns – Poor sleep is a common struggle for children with ADHD/SPD. By calming the nervous system, chiropractic care helps kids fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Encourages Healthy Brain Development – The earlier nervous system imbalances are addressed, the better a child’s brain can develop and adapt.

Our Approach to Helping Kids Thrive

Step 1: Comprehensive Case History & Nervous System Assessment

We begin with a detailed case history to understand your child’s health journey and identify potential root causes of nervous system dysfunction. From there, we utilize advanced INSiGHT neurological scans to measure:
✔️ Inflammation levels
✔️ Muscular tension levels
✔️ Stress 

These scans help us pinpoint how well your child’s nervous system is functioning and where interference may be occurring, allowing us to create the most effective care plan.

Step 2: Personalized Chiropractic Care Plan

Each child receives a customized care plan tailored to their unique needs. Our precise, gentle, and kid-friendly adjustments help restore proper nervous system function, allowing their body to adapt and thrive.

Step 3: Ongoing Support and Guidance

We believe in partnering with parents every step of the way. Through education, lifestyle recommendations, and continuous progress monitoring, we ensure your child receives the best possible care, making adjustments as needed for long-term success.

Success Story: Vincent’s Transformation 

Vincent’s journey with Pinnacle Chiropractic started when his mom saw a post about the “Perfect Storm” and felt like it was screaming at her. At the time, Vincent was holding it together at school, but at home, he was constantly fidgeting and overwhelmed by sensory inputs. Other kids would get frustrated with him, and at times, he seemed “disconnected.” His mom had concerns about food sensitivities and overall health, but no one—pediatricians, friends, or family—was truly listening. The frustration weighed heavily on her, making her feel like she wasn’t doing enough.

At Pinnacle, the INSiGHT scans confirmed what she had been sensing all along, and Dr. Matt’s explanations made everything click. Within the first week or two of care, a switch flipped. Vincent’s body entered a calmer state, and his mom started noticing remarkable changes. He was easier to talk to, more rational when emotional, and better able to process his feelings. His focus improved, his reactions were calmer, and even his immune system got stronger—when he did get sick, it didn’t last as long.

Today, as a teen, Vincent still loves his adjustments! His mom says, “I’m very glad we have Pinnacle as a resource to keep getting him to be the healthiest version of himself and with such a better understanding of how his body works.” 🌟 Chiropractic care wasn’t just a solution—it was the missing piece that helped Vincent thrive.

Why Parents Choose Pinnacle Chiropractic

🌟 Expert Pediatric Care: Our team is highly trained in pediatric and prenatal chiropractic care, with certifications from ICPA and PXDocs.

🌟 Safe and Gentle Adjustments: Our techniques are tailored specifically for children, ensuring comfortable and effective care. 

🌟 Holistic, Drug-Free Approach: We focus on getting to the root cause of ADHD and SPD, not just managing symptoms with medication.

🌟 Family-Centered Care: We believe in partnering with parents to create lasting health improvements for their children.

Take the Next Step Toward Natural Healing

If your child struggles with ADHD, sensory overload, emotional regulation, or focus issues, there is hope. Chiropractic care can help their nervous system function at its best, allowing them to thrive naturally.

📞 Call us today at 941-822-8828

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—we’re here to help your child reach their Pinnacle Potential!

Looking for a Pediatric or Prenatal Chiropractor Near You?

Visit www.pdcnearme.com to find someone in your area?

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Reviews

Patient Stories: Discover Reviews by Satisfied Chiropractic Patients

Hear what our patients have to say about their experience at Pinnacle.

After Dr. JJ worked on him just one time, he has been able to enjoy laying on his back more.
Dr JJ and the team did an incredible job with my baby boy. After he worked on him just one time, he has been able to enjoy laying on his back more, whereas before he would just HATE being on his back. My baby boy has reached a new level of ease! With less pressure to the nervous system. Even answering so many questions as a first time dad and giving advice for healthy development! Can’t wait to see how more he develops under care. Thank you to the Pinnacle team you are amazing!
They have been there for my first pregnancy, my miscarriage, and thankfully another pregnancy.
Pinnacle has truly been such a blessing in mine and my daughter life. All their staff care so much about you as an individual and of course your health. They have been there for my first pregnancy, my miscarriage, and thankfully another pregnancy. They have such a wealth of knowledge to share and help you along your journey. Pinnacle cares for you like family and we are so grateful for that.
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Pinnacle Chiropractic
7984 Cooper Creek Blvd., Suite #104
University Park, FL 34201
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