Is Chiropractic Care Right for Your Child with Autism? Discover the Benefits for Behavioral and Cognitive Health
Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Kids
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is more commonly diagnosed today than ever before, with the number of children in the U.S. affected steadily increasing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 36 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with ASD, a significant rise from previous years. This means that over 2.7% of children are affected, with the increase in diagnoses likely due to better awareness, improved screening, and reduced stigma surrounding autism.
While ASD affects children of all races and backgrounds, it’s more common in boys, with 1 in 34 boys diagnosed compared to 1 in 144 girls. Girls, however, often receive their diagnosis later than boys, sometimes around 5.6 years compared to 4.8 years for boys. Globally, over 3 million people in the U.S. and tens of millions worldwide are living with autism.
Understanding ASD is crucial for parents. It’s important to look at it from several angles—behavioral, neurological, and developmental—because it impacts children in many different ways. In this blog, we’ll dive into what you need to know about your child’s ASD diagnosis. We’ll also explore how our pediatric chiropractic practice in San Diego can offer support, focusing on behavioral struggles, neurological imbalances, and how chiropractic care can help improve your child’s communication and overall development.
What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
The term “spectrum” in Autism Spectrum Disorder in kids refers to the wide variety of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairment.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex condition that affects how children interact with others, communicate, learn, and behave. Symptoms usually become noticeable before the age of 2, which is why it’s classified as a developmental disorder.
The term “spectrum” refers to the wide variety of symptoms, skills, and levels of impairment. Think of it like a color spectrum: Some children experience milder symptoms, while others face more severe challenges. No two children with autism are exactly alike, and symptoms can even change over time.
In 2013, the DSM-5 (the manual that guides mental health professionals) combined several distinct autism diagnoses—Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, and others—into one umbrella diagnosis. This change helps simplify the diagnosis process.
Doctors classify the severity of ASD based on how much support a child needs, especially in terms of communication and repetitive behaviors. The three levels are:
Level 1: Requiring Support – Can use full sentences but might struggle with conversations.
Level 2: Requiring Substantial Support – Limited communication, often focused on specific topics.
Level 3: Requiring Very Substantial Support – Limited or no speech, may need help with basic communication.
Two main areas that kids with ASD struggle with are social communication and interaction as well as restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities.
Key Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Kids
Kids with ASD impacts two main areas:
Social communication and interaction
Restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities
Behavioral Aspects
Social Challenges: Children with ASD may struggle with reading social cues like smiles or frowns and understanding others' emotions. They might prefer playing alone and find it difficult to engage in group activities. Emotional regulation can be tough, leading to frustration, meltdowns, or outbursts, especially when they feel overwhelmed or confused.
Repetitive Behaviors: Common behaviors include hand-flapping, rocking, and a strong need for routines. Even small changes in a child’s routine (like a change in their daily schedule) can cause anxiety. Some children also develop deep interests in specific topics, such as astronomy or machines.
Masking: Many children, particularly girls, may mask their symptoms to fit in socially. This can include suppressing behaviors like stimming (repetitive movements) or forcing eye contact. Although this might help them blend in, it can lead to mental health challenges later on.
Communication Aspects
Speech Delays: Many children with ASD experience delayed speech or no speech at all. When they do speak, they might repeat words (called echolalia), speak in a robotic voice, or have trouble taking turns in conversation.
Nonverbal Communication: Children with ASD often struggle with interpreting body language, tone of voice, or facial expressions. Their own gestures may not align with their words, making it difficult to communicate.
Frustration: Communication difficulties often lead to frustration. If a child can’t express their needs, they might act out, cry, or become aggressive.
👉 Looking for drug-free autism spectrum disorder support in San Diego? Book an initial exam at Sprout Family Chiropractic here.
Early Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Recognizing the early signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) can be crucial in seeking early intervention and improving long-term outcomes. Symptoms of autism often appear before the age of 2, and early detection is key to getting the best possible support for your child. Here’s a guide to the early signs of ASD, categorized by age group, to help parents identify potential concerns:
General Early Development (First 1-2 Years of Life)
Symptoms generally appear by the first two years of life. Many children show symptoms by 12 to 18 months or earlier.
Common early signs include poor eye contact, lack of response to one’s own name, difficulty following another person’s gaze or pointed finger (called "joint attention"), and limited pretend play or imitation skills.
Parents are usually the first to notice these signs, which are often subtle but critical.
By 2 to 3 Months of Age
Infants typically show social behaviors like gazing at faces, turning toward voices, grasping fingers, and smiling. Infants who show less interest in socializing or responding to these cues may be at risk.
By 8 to 10 Months of Age
Children who eventually develop autism may demonstrate failure to respond to their names, reduced interest in people, and delayed babbling compared to typical developmental milestones.
By Toddlerhood (Before Age 3)
Difficulty with social games: Many children with ASD struggle to engage in typical social games, don’t imitate actions of others, and prefer solitary play.
They may not seek comfort from family members or respond to displays of affection or anger in the typical way.
Language development may be delayed, and some children may initially coo and babble but later lose those skills.
Regression: One-third of parents report noticing issues before their child’s first birthday, and 80% by 24 months. A regression (loss of previously acquired skills) in communication or social behavior often occurs between ages 1 and 2 and is a key “red flag.”
Red Flags for Early ASD Signs (before age 2)
Red flags of early ASD signs before age 2 years old
Does not respond to his/her name by 12 months of age.
Doesn’t point or wave “bye-bye” by 12 months.
No babbling or failure to use words to communicate by 12 months.
Poor eye contact and lack of social smiling.
Doesn't smile when smiled at or seems disconnected.
Failure to engage with others, showing preference for playing alone.
Doesn’t point to objects or share interests with others by 14 months.
Unusual attachment to routines or objects, such as always lining up toys or insisting on specific routines.
Echolalia (repeating words or phrases) beyond the typical age.
Unusual movement patterns like walking on toes or hand-flapping.
Impaired pretend play or lack of make-believe play by 18 months.
Over-sensitivity to noise or aversion to certain sensory stimuli.
Frequent tantrums or intense outbursts when faced with frustration.
Later Indicators of ASD in Kids (Beyond Early Childhood)
Later Indicators (Beyond Early Childhood)
Difficulty making friends or maintaining conversations.
Impaired imaginative and social play compared to peers.
Stereotyped language or restricted use of language.
Intense, focused interests in specific subjects or objects.
Preoccupation with certain topics or objects.
Impaired theory of mind—struggling to understand others’ thoughts, emotions, and perspectives.
Recognizing these early signs and seeking help can set your child on the path to better outcomes. If you notice any of these symptoms, early intervention through therapies and support services can make a significant difference.
Common Struggles Faced by Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Children with ASD face a wide variety of challenges depending on where they fall on the spectrum. Some struggles are more common than others, impacting their daily lives, communication, and development.
Behavioral Issues: Difficulty with emotional regulation often leads to outbursts, aggression, or self-harm like head-banging. Many children engage in repetitive behaviors, such as rocking or hand-flapping, and show intense interests in specific topics.
Communication Issues: Delayed speech, trouble with social communication, and difficulty interpreting nonverbal cues like body language or facial expressions are common.
Sensory Sensitivities: Many children with ASD are over-sensitive or under-sensitive to sensory input, meaning certain sights, sounds, or textures may overwhelm them.
Seizures and Developmental Delays: Many children with ASD experience seizures, gastrointestinal issues, and developmental delays, which can impact motor skills, language development, and social interactions.
👉 Does your child struggle with any of these? Book an initial exam at Sprout Family Chiropractic here to see how we can help.
Supporting Your Child with Autism: Parent-Approved Tips for Home
Over the years, many parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have shared their experiences with us at Sprout Family Chiropractic and strategies that have helped improve their child's development, behavior, and overall well-being. Here’s a checklist of things that parents have found successful in supporting their child with ASD at home:
A common questions parents have is, “How can I support my child with autism?” These are tips that have worked well for parents we talk to in our pediatric chiropractic office in San Diego.
Educating Yourself and Advocating: Parents often emphasize the importance of becoming their child's strongest advocate by learning about autism and understanding available services. Knowing your child's legal rights and navigating therapies and insurance can make a world of difference in accessing the right support.
Actively Engaging in Therapies: Many parents recommend actively participating in therapy sessions and learning how to apply strategies at home. Getting trained by professionals allows parents to reinforce therapy outcomes consistently, leading to greater progress and better results.
Prioritizing Caregiver Well-being: Parents often share that practicing self-care is essential. Taking breaks, seeking emotional support, and connecting with other parents helps manage stress, ensuring they can provide the best care for their child.
Establishing Predictable Routines with Visual Aids: Parents report success with creating and using visual schedules and checklists to establish predictable routines. These visual tools help children anticipate transitions, reduce anxiety, and manage changes in their daily schedule.
Implementing Positive Behavior Supports: Many parents find that using positive reinforcement—such as praise or rewards—works well for encouraging good behavior and helping their child practice new skills. Consistent reinforcement makes behaviors more likely to be repeated.
Addressing Nutritional and Gastrointestinal Health: Parents have found that consulting with healthcare providers about dietary changes and nutritional supplementation can be beneficial for managing gastrointestinal issues. Even if the impact on autism symptoms is minimal, reducing GI discomfort can improve mood and behavior.
Fostering Communication Skills: Supporting communication development, whether through spoken language, gestures, or AAC devices (like picture cards or apps), has been successful for many parents. Helping their child express their needs in a way that feels comfortable reduces frustration and prevents outbursts.
Promoting Physical and Motor Development: Parents often mention the positive impact of encouraging physical activity at home, like engaging in physical therapy exercises or structured recreational activities. These activities improve motor skills, balance, and coordination, and help children participate in play.
Building and Managing a Multidisciplinary Team: Many parents find it helpful to be the “captain” of their child’s support team, coordinating between medical professionals and therapists. Regular communication and a unified approach help keep everyone aligned and focused on the child’s progress.
Ensuring Home Safety and Managing Co-occurring Conditions: Parents frequently talk about implementing safety measures at home to prevent wandering or injury. Additionally, addressing co-occurring conditions like sleep problems, sensory processing issues, or seizures with the help of healthcare providers improves overall well-being and behavior.
These are strategies that parents have found effective in supporting their children at home. By integrating these practices, you can create an environment that encourages growth, stability, and success for your child with ASD.
The Role of Chiropractic Care at Sprout Family Chiropractic, San Diego in Supporting Children with ASD
At Sprout Family Chiropractic, we know that each child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has their own set of neurological and developmental needs. Chiropractic care plays a vital role in supporting these children by focusing on the nervous system, which is often disrupted in those with ASD.
Chiropractic care is a holistic, non-invasive approach that helps restore brain-body communication. When the spine and nervous system are in optimal alignment, it leads to improvements in behavior, cognition, emotional regulation, sensory processing, and overall quality of life. Here’s how chiropractic care works and why it’s essential for children with ASD:
Nervous System Balance and Brain-Body Communication
The brain controls everything in the body through the nervous system, which communicates with each organ and system. For children with ASD, this communication can often be disrupted due to misalignments in the spine, resulting in sensory overload, difficulty processing emotions, and challenges with social interactions.
Chiropractic care works by restoring alignment to the spine, helping to improve nerve function. By reducing nerve interference, chiropractic adjustments help the brain communicate more effectively with the rest of the body. This process enhances cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall behavior. For children with ASD, this means a better ability to process sensory information, regulate emotions, and engage socially.
Neuroinflammation and Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Addressing Root Causes of ASD Symptoms
Chiropractic care also plays a significant role in managing neuroinflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction—two critical factors contributing to many ASD symptoms.
Neuroinflammation: Chronic inflammation in the brain is often present in children with ASD and can disrupt brain function, affecting behavior, cognition, and communication.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Mitochondria provide energy for brain cells. When they’re not functioning properly, brain activity is impaired, leading to symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty with learning.
By reducing neuroinflammation and supporting mitochondrial function, chiropractic adjustments help improve brain activity and cognitive function. Combined with Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), chiropractic care offers an integrated approach to addressing these root causes of ASD.
Improving Sensory Processing and Cognitive Function
A core issue in ASD is sensory processing difficulties, where children may be over-sensitive or under-sensitive to sensory input. These challenges can cause distress and lead to behaviors like self-soothing (rocking) or sensory-seeking(fascination with spinning objects).
Through chiropractic care, we can stimulate neural pathways and promote neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to form new connections). Additionally, LLLT promotes neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons) and synaptogenesis (the creation of new synapses), which is vital for improving sensory integration.
Chiropractic adjustments and LLLT can also enhance cognitive function, especially in children who struggle with executive functioning—planning, attention, and decision-making. This combination of therapies supports brain function and helps children engage more effectively in learning, problem-solving, and social interactions.
Calming the Nervous System and Regulating Emotions
Children with ASD often experience difficulty regulating emotions, which can lead to frustration, anxiety, and meltdowns. Chiropractic care helps by balancing the nervous system, reducing sympathetic (fight-or-flight) responses, and promoting the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) system. This balance is key to emotional regulation and a reduction in anxiety.
In addition to chiropractic adjustments, LLLT has been shown to have antidepressant-like effects, improving mood and sleep quality—common challenges for children with autism. Better sleep and mood regulation often lead to a reduction in behavioral challenges, making it easier for children to cope with daily life.
Supporting Digestive Health and Alleviating Gut Issues
Many children with ASD also experience gastrointestinal (GI) issues, such as chronic constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These problems often exacerbate behavioral challenges and emotional dysregulation.
At Sprout Family Chiropractic, we help improve gut health by restoring brain-gut communication through spinal adjustments. By optimizing the autonomic nervous system, we help alleviate symptoms like constipation, abdominal pain and bloating, which are commonly reported in children with autism.
In combination with Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), we can support mitochondrial health in the digestive system, helping to improve cellular metabolism, circulation, and reduce inflammation in the gut. This comprehensive approach supports emotional and behavioral regulation while also addressing digestive discomfort.
Sprout Family Chiropractic in San Diego offers a holistic, integrative approach to ASD care, combining spinal adjustments, Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), and other supportive therapies to address neurological, behavioral, and physiological challenges. By focusing on nervous system balance, mitochondrial health, and sensory processing, we can make a significant difference in the lives of children with autism.
With personalized care plans and ongoing support, we aim to help your child thrive in social interactions, emotional regulation, and cognitive function. If you're ready to explore how chiropractic care can support your child’s development, contact Sprout Family Chiropractic today.
How We Support Children with Autism
At Sprout Family Chiropractic, we want to make it clear that we don’t claim to cure autism. Our focus is improving the quality of life for children with ASD, with or without a diagnosis, and their families by addressing the underlying conditions that often accompany autism, such as sensory processing issues, neuroinflammation, emotional regulation difficulties, and gastrointestinal problems.
Parents ask us “Does my child need a diagnosis to get chiropractic care for ASD?” No, your child does not need an official autism diagnosis to receive chiropractic care. Chiropractic care, particularly when focused on the nervous system and spinal health, can benefit children with a variety of developmental and neurological challenges, including those related to ASD. At Sprout Family Chiropractic, we focus on optimizing nervous system function, which can help improve communication, behavior, sensory processing, and overall well-being, whether or not an official diagnosis is made.
If you're noticing signs or symptoms related to autism—such as communication delays, sensory sensitivities, or behavioral challenges—it’s always a good idea to schedule a consultation. We can assess your child’s needs and create a personalized care plan to support their development. Early intervention is key, and chiropractic care can be a valuable part of a comprehensive approach to managing ASD.
If you have any further questions or concerns about chiropractic care for your child, don’t hesitate to reach out! We're here to help.
“Does my kid need to be tested for autism?” Whether your child has an autism diagnosis or not, at Sprout Family Chiropractic top goal is, “Is your child’s body functioning properly and if not, where do they need more support to thrive?” Our nervous system tests give us insight into how your child’s brain and nervous system are working.
Could Your Child Benefit from a Nervous System Evaluation?
The signs of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can vary widely, and sometimes they might be subtle or missed early on—especially in younger children. If you’ve noticed any of the following signs, it may be time to consider a nervous system evaluation through a neurologically-focused chiropractic approach:
Challenges with social interaction (e.g., avoiding eye contact, not responding to their name)
Repetitive behaviors (e.g., hand-flapping, rocking, lining up objects)
Delays in communication (e.g., limited or absent speech, difficulty using gestures)
Difficulty regulating emotions (e.g., frequent meltdowns, frustration when routines are disrupted)
Sensory sensitivities (e.g., overreacting to loud noises, difficulty with certain textures)
Trouble with transitions (e.g., difficulty moving from one activity to another, rigidity in routines)
Poor sleep patterns (e.g., trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, frequent night waking)
Digestive issues (e.g., constipation, diarrhea, stomach discomfort)
A history of birth trauma or developmental delays
Anxiety or heightened stress responses (e.g., excessive worry, easily overwhelmed in social situations)
These signs may indicate nervous system dysregulation or imbalance, which can be addressed with a comprehensive, holistic approach at Sprout Family Chiropractic in San Diego. Our focus on optimizing nervous system function can help improve communication, behavior, and overall well-being for children with ASD.
👉 If this sounds like your child, let’s start with a gentle, non-invasive INSiGHT Scan to see what’s going on under the surface. Schedule a visit here
Everything Parents Need to Know About Autism Spectrum Disorder: 10 FAQs
1. What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects how a child communicates, behaves, and interacts with others. It is called a "spectrum" because it manifests differently in each individual, ranging from mild to severe symptoms. Early intervention and support can help children develop skills for social interaction, communication, and emotional regulation.
2. How is ASD diagnosed?
ASD is diagnosed based on behavior and developmental history. A pediatrician or specialist will conduct developmental screenings, ask about the child’s behavior, and possibly perform additional assessments such as autism-specific diagnostic tools. Early diagnosis is crucial for improving outcomes, with reliable diagnoses made as early as age 2.
3. What are the early signs of autism in my child?
The early signs of ASD can appear as early as 6 months, but they are often noticeable by 12-18 months. Early signs include lack of eye contact, delayed speech or babbling, not responding to their name, lack of joint attention, and difficulty with social interaction. If you notice a regression in your child’s behavior, it is important to consult with a professional immediately.
4. Can chiropractic care help with ASD symptoms?
Yes, chiropractic care can help by improving nervous system function, which is often disrupted in children with ASD. Chiropractic adjustments can enhance brain-body communication, reduce behavioral challenges, improve emotional regulation, and even help with physical issues such as digestive problems and sleep disturbances.
5. How soon can I expect results from chiropractic care for ASD?
The timeline for seeing improvements varies depending on the individual child and their specific needs. Some parents report noticing positive changes in social interaction, communication, and behavior within a few weeks, while others may see gradual improvements over several months of consistent chiropractic care.
6. What are the benefits of chiropractic care for my child with autism?
Chiropractic care has been shown to improve social engagement, enhance communication skills, regulate emotions, reduce repetitive behaviors, alleviate digestive issues, and even improve sleep quality. It focuses on restoring nervous system balance, which can positively impact a variety of symptoms associated with ASD.
7. Is chiropractic care safe for children with autism?
Chiropractic care is a safe, non-invasive, drug-free treatment for children with autism. Chiropractors trained in pediatric care use gentle, age-appropriate techniques to ensure comfort and safety. Before starting treatment, it’s essential to consult with your child’s healthcare provider to discuss any specific concerns or conditions.
8. How does chiropractic care work to improve brain and body communication in ASD?
Chiropractic care focuses on spinal alignment, which plays a key role in the function of the nervous system. When the spine is misaligned, it can cause nerve interference, disrupting communication between the brain and body. Chiropractic adjustments help restore proper alignment, allowing the nervous system to function optimally, which can improve communication, behavior, and emotional regulation.
9. Should chiropractic care be part of a broader treatment plan for ASD?
Yes, chiropractic care is most effective when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Many children with ASD benefit from a combination of therapies, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapy, and medical care. Chiropractic care can complement these approaches by focusing on nervous system function and overall well-being.
10. How can I support my child at home after they begin chiropractic care?
After starting chiropractic care, there are several things parents can do at home to support their child’s progress. Establishing consistent routines, using visual aids, practicing communication and social skills, and continuing therapies (such as speech or occupational therapy) at home can help reinforce the changes made during chiropractic sessions. Staying actively involved in your child's care and well-being is key to achieving the best outcomes.
Drug-Free Support for Kids with ASD
Located in Kearny Mesa, San Diego, Sprout Family Chiropractic specializes in natural ASD support for kids that calm the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and help your child thrive—gently, safely, and without drugs.
If you're ready to take the next step in supporting your child’s journey, here’s how you can get started with Sprout Family Chiropractic:
Schedule a Consultation: Reach out today to schedule an evaluation and start developing your child’s personalized care plan.
Learn About Our Services: Explore how chiropractic care and LLLT can help address your child’s unique needs.
Be an Active Partner: We’ll equip you with the tools to support your child’s progress at home and ensure their treatment is aligned with their needs.
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Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your child’s healthcare provider for personalized guidance.