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Drew Rubin, DC, CCSP, DACCP & Erin McKernan Scupham, DC
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ February 1, 2023 ~ Pages 7-13
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Abstract
Objective: To review the positive health outcomes in a three-year-old child with Autism Spectrum Disorder undergoing chiropractic care.
Clinical Features: Bilateral hypertonicity of the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions to include the trapezius, erector spinae, levator scapulae, and rhomboid muscles, were found upon examination. A positive Babinski reflex was present on the patient bilaterally as well as poor eye accommodation. Vertebral subluxations were found upon examination. The patient presented with a clinical diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder that resulted in delayed developmental milestones, inability to eat solid foods nor gain weight, limited vocabulary to only a few words, aversion to being touched, sleep deprivation, and constipation. Past history included a difficult pregnancy, labor, and delivery for the patient’s mother.
Interventions and Outcomes: Bioenergetic Synchronization technique protocol and analysis and Diversified Webster Pediatric Adjusting Technique with sustained contact were administered each visit over a 2-month period. Patient’s progress was monitored through pattern analysis of subluxations, leg length inequality, primitive reflex testing, and observational reports from the mother and father. The patient had significant improvements in sleep patterns, behavior, sensitivity to touch, expansion of vocabulary, constipation, and retained primitive reflexes following chiropractic adjustments. The patient has since continued chiropractic care.
Conclusions: The chiropractic care and positive health outcomes of a patient with Autism Spectrum Disorder is presented. Further research is encouraged to explore the role of chiropractic in this population.
Key Words: Chiropractic, autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ASD, Bioenergetic Synchronization Technique, BEST, Diversified Webster Pediatric Technique, sustained contact, SC, subluxation, pediatric, adjustment
