A recent article in the 2010 Proceedings of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) Research Conference reported on a 6 year old boy diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome along with asthma and allergies who received chiropractic care.
Following the study, the child showed a reduction of Asperger’s signs and symptoms as well as a reduction in asthma and allergies as determined by objective and subjective findings. Spokane-based Dr. Pat Dougherty, D.C., follows health and wellness issues closely in professional journals and other publications. “This was not a short term case study,” said Dr. Dougherty, “but actually lasted for 9 years with consistent positive results.”
Asperger’s syndrome is considered a high-functioning autism, but it differs from other autism spectrum disorders by its relative preservation of linguistic and cognitive development.
In this study, a 6 year old boy presented at a chiropractic office with his parents with Asperger’s Syndrome that resulted in uncontrollable “rocking, jumping and flapping” of his hands; astma triggered by exertion; seasonal allergies and colds or bronchial congestion; and severe allergies to mold, dust, animal dander and seasonal triggers. “Standard medications for Asperger’s made his asthma and allergy symptoms.” Dr. Dougherty related. “Therefore at the time of his initial office visit he was only taking asthma medication and a multivitamin.”
“The patient and family reported that the Asperger’s Syndrome symptoms, “settled down within the first week of care.”” said Dr. Dougherty. After 3 months of care his Asperger’s symptoms had been stabilizing and he was off medications for asthma and allergies. The patient is now 15 years old and has not needed any medication during the past 7 years, nor have his Asperger’s symptoms returned.
“This is just one study,” explained Dr. Dougherty, “but with such promising short and long term results, further research is merited to investigate the relationship between chiropractic care for Asperger’s and other autistic spectrum disorders.”
Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Dougherty, whose office is located at 2110 N. Washington Street, Spokane WA (telephone 509-327-4373).
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