Ask Dr. Nick
On today’s episode, Dr. Nick talks about how balance deficits are seen in children with ADHD and how this is used for early diagnosis and treatment. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is rising in prevalence among children. It is usually diagnosed in childhood because it is a neurodevelopmental disorder, but can persist into adulthood. The brain structures that are developmentally delayed are the cerebellum, basal ganglia, and frontal lobes, which are all involved in the cognitive and motor systems. For this reason, it is not surprising that children diagnosed with ADHD are more likely to have balance deficits, especially with their eyes closed. This testing cannot only be used as early diagnosis, but also for treatment by increasing stimulation to these brain areas and practicing balance at home. Check out the video for more in depth information on how balance problems are associated with ADHD and how we can treat them together!
Konicarova J, Bob P, Raboch J. Balance deficits and ADHD symptoms in medication-naïve school-aged boys. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2014 Jan 15;10:85-8.
