Chiropractic Care for Neurodiverse Patients

Neurodiversity describes natural variations in the human brain, including conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and Tourette’s. People who are neurodiverse often experience musculoskeletal (muscle, joint, and nerve) challenges that are overlooked in standard healthcare. Chiropractic care can be a valuable part of a multidisciplinary approach, supporting comfort, mobility, and overall wellbeing.

Musculoskeletal Considerations in Neurodiversity

Research suggests that neurodiverse people may be more likely to experience:

• Joint hypermobility
  Studies show a strong link between autism, ADHD, and joint hypermobility. Looser joints can increase the risk of sprains, instability, pain, and fatigue. Supporting joint stability through hands-on care and tailored exercise is often beneficial.
• Proprioception and coordination differences
  Proprioception — the body’s ability to sense its position in space — may be reduced in some neurodivergent people, especially when hypermobility is present. This can lead to awkward posture, reduced balance, or frequent minor injuries. Chiropractic care can help by improving joint function and recommending targeted strengthening.
• Muscle tone and trigger points
  Some individuals experience increased muscle tone or tension, particularly around the neck, shoulders, or lower back. This can lead to trigger points (tender “knots” in muscle tissue) that respond well to manual therapy and stretching advice.
• Chronic pain and fatigue
  Chronic musculoskeletal pain is more commonly reported in neurodivergent populations. Pain can sometimes go unrecognised — for example, in autistic individuals who may communicate differently about discomfort. Addressing pain and fatigue requires a gentle, patient-centred approach.
• Postural strain
  Sitting or standing in certain positions may feel more comfortable for sensory reasons, but over time these postures can increase musculoskeletal stress. Chiropractors can help identify and manage these issues with both treatment and practical advice.

A Patient-Centred Approach

At our clinic, we pride ourselves on tailoring care to each individual. For neurodiverse patients, this often means:

• Providing clear explanations of what we are doing at every step.
• Allowing extra time for appointments if needed.
• Using written or visual aids to explain exercises and treatment plans.
• Creating a calm, sensory-friendly environment by reducing bright lights, strong smells, or background noise.
• Checking consent continuously, not just once, to ensure patients feel comfortable and in control.

Part of a Multidisciplinary Team

Chiropractic care works best as part of a wider healthcare network. Neurodiverse patients may benefit from input from physiotherapists, occupational therapists, or medical specialists. We are always happy to work collaboratively to ensure care is safe, effective, and adapted to each patient’s needs.

Supporting You as an Individual

Every patient is different. Our role is to listen, adapt, and provide care that respects your preferences and needs. Whether it’s helping with joint stability, reducing muscle tension, or offering practical advice on posture and movement, our goal is to make chiropractic care a supportive part of your wider wellbeing.

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