Pieces to the Neurosensory Puzzle

     Before beginning the Neurosensory Program, Caleb underwent a series of tests and screenings to determine the best course of action for going forward.  Spinal scans and x-rays helped to pinpoint exact areas along the spine that would need to be adjusted in order for the line of communication to be open between his brain and body.  The dietary changes and exercises won't be fully effective if there is interference to the central nervous system.  In addition, it was recommended that all gluten and dairy be removed from Caleb's diet.  Both can cause a significant inflammatory response, so in order for the brain and body to heal and function fully, it's important to keep away from triggers to inflammation.  For a child that is a picky eater already, this could potentially present a new challenge, but it's one that we're ready to accept!  As far as the third aspect to the program, Caleb was given a series of specific exercises to do at home.  These exercises are designed to allow for proper development of the neuropathways needed for learning, communication and movement.  Each exercise was explained and modeled FOR him and WITH him.

     When we first prepared to do these at-home exercises, Caleb touted the ease with which he expected to do them.  "How hard can this be?"  Well, since they're designed to correct something that has been out of sync for who knows how long, I had a feeling that he was about to meet an obstacle that he would have to learn to overcome.  Tears filled his eyes as he realized his body wasn't as easily cooperating as he was expecting.  He was quickly frustrated and exhausted, but persevered.  Hard work is good.  When you know it's going to produce desired and positive results, it's even better.  He's a champ and fighter.  He'll get there....I have no doubt.  Onward and upward!

Doing Something New

   
     When seeking treatments and therapies for a struggling child, it is sometimes difficult to know which directions to go and what paths to take.  The well trodden path offers many medication choices, routine trips to psychologists and psychiatrists, visits for Speech, OT, PT, individualized education programs (I.E.Ps)....  all of those angles of therapeutic care have their place and all have been integral parts of Caleb's progress.  For each one, we have been eternally and incredibly grateful.  But suppose there were a different option?  What if there were a path that merged alongside these others, offering a way to allow the brain and the body to work in harmony as God designed?  What if that path paved the way for success WITHOUT medication??? 

     We are taking a leap and trying something new and I am so excited to see where this path takes us.  Today, Caleb began participating in a Neurosensory Program at McFadden Chiropractic Wellness Center in Sewickley, PA.  The program is designed to target neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing Disorder and Learning Disorders.  This program has a three-pronged approach and is tailored to each individual based on the areas of need.  Through specific and individual chiropractic treatments, dietary and nutritional recommendations, and neurointegrative movement therapy, the desired outcome is for each individual to maximize their fullest innate potential.  It's in there!  I'm looking forward to seeing it come to the surface. 

     It was incredibly easy for Caleb to feel at ease and comfortable with Dr. Jim.  He was treated with respect and received openly and warmly.  There's a light-hearted and fun atmosphere in the office, so any anxiety quickly left once he entered the room.  Everything was explained thoroughly, but at a level that Caleb could understand.  It's important that he understand this process so that he can feel confident about investing the work into it.  It's also critical that a doctor/patient relationship be built on a foundation of mutual trust and open communication.  I'd say we are off to a great start!  Stay tuned!!!