Autism and Chiropractic Care

Research and case reports suggest that chiropractic care may support overall nervous system function in children diagnosed with autism. These cases highlight improvements in sleep, communication, behavior, and daily functioning after receiving chiropractic adjustments. While chiropractic care does not cure autism, some families have reported positive changes in their child’s well-being and quality of life during care.

Max's Story – Chiropractic and Developmental Progress

After experiencing a difficult birth and developmental delays, Max was showing signs of autism, including sensory sensitivity, speech delays, and behavioral challenges. His parents sought out chiropractic care as a last resort. After gentle adjustments focusing on spinal alignment, Max began sleeping through the night, speaking more clearly, and integrating better into school.
Source: The Telegraph UK, "Chiropractic treatment transformed my son"

Victoria’s Story – Autism and Ear Infections

A 3-year-old girl diagnosed with autism and chronic ear infections began chiropractic care. Within 3 weeks, her ear infections resolved. After removing dairy and gluten from her diet, she showed significant emotional, social, and language improvement.
Source: Khorshid K., ICA Review, Fall 2001

Lawrence’s Story – Autism and Cerebral Palsy

A 6-year-old boy with autism and cerebral palsy began chiropractic care. He became more aware, took his first steps, began feeding himself, and showed major improvements in speech and motor skills.
Source: Oklahaven Children’s Chiropractic Center Newsletter, Spring 2001

26 Children Study – Chiropractic and Autism Behaviors

A group of 26 children with autism received upper cervical chiropractic care for nine months. Observed improvements included better sleep, digestion, speech, behavior, and participation in mainstream classrooms. Several children were able to discontinue medication.
Source: Aguilar AL et al., Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, 2000

Heather’s Story – Mood and Sleep Improvement

Heather, a young woman with autism and erratic behavior, experienced sleep issues, skin-picking, and mobility problems. After beginning chiropractic care, she began walking, sleeping better, and her skin lesions started to heal.
Source: Barnes T., Kentuckiana Children’s Center, ICA Review, Sept/Oct 2000

Chiropractic Care and Behavioral Changes

A 3.5-year-old girl with autism, aggression, and chronic ear infections experienced significant behavioral improvements within weeks of starting chiropractic care. Over time, her rituals and violent outbursts reduced, and she required fewer antibiotics.
Source: Warner SP & Warner TM, Today’s Chiropractic, May/June 1999

Comprehensive Case – Autism and Multiple Conditions

A 5-year-old girl with autism, asthma, allergies, and digestive issues showed rapid improvements after specific chiropractic adjustments. Within weeks, her violent behavior decreased, her speech and sleep improved, and her overall health stabilized.
Source: Amalu WC, Today’s Chiropractic, Sept/Oct 1998

Developmental Communication Disorder

A 2-year-old non-verbal boy diagnosed with a communication disorder began responding to his environment after just a few chiropractic visits. He started speaking after his 12th visit.
Source: Goldman SR, Today’s Chiropractic, July/August 1995

Progress Over 10 Months – Autism and Cognitive Development

A 7-year-old girl with autism and a traumatic background received chiropractic care for ten months. She progressed from non-verbal and withdrawn to being able to speak, follow commands, and attend public school.
Source: Rubinstein HM, Chiropractic Pediatrics, April 1994

Behavioral Improvements in Autistic Children

A review of multiple autistic children under chiropractic care reported that half showed meaningful improvements in behaviors like reduced self-abuse, improved language, and better social interaction.
Source: Sandeful R & Adams E, ACA Journal of Chiropractic, Dec 1987