Medical Experts Evaluate Alternative Therapies for Children

Mounting evidence is challenging speculation in the medical field regarding alternative medicine for children suffering from developmental disabilities. Acupuncture is becoming commonly used for alleviation of the side effects associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, autism and other disorders.

Dr. Chan, a professor of pediatric studies at Harvard Medical Center admits that particularly in cases of children with cerebral palsy, acupuncture has demonstrated improved moods, a decrease in muscle spasms, improved sleep patterns and heightened motor abilities, however, substantial research must still be performed before reaching any final conclusions.

Conflicting opinions and certain medical professionals argue that the evidence speaks for itself. Dr. May Loo of Stanford University Hospital claims that she has seen unprecedented improvement in children suffering from disabilities who have received acupuncture with needles, lasers, magnets and electro-acupuncture.

Other alternative therapy methods thought to be beneficial for children who suffer from developmental disabilities are massage and yoga. Parents of autistic children were advised in a study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Fields of the Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami, to give their children massages 15 minutes before bed for one month. The study showed a gradually calming effect of the massages on the children, who displayed less signs of stereotypical autistic behavior and proved to be more socially able.

Yoga is also becoming a more commonly accepted alternative therapy for disabled children. Some pediatricians claim that it can be a vital aspect of children’s lives, increasing flexibility and significantly calming undue tension.

To learn more about alternative therapy options for a cerebral palsy child or child suffering from any other developmental disorder, contact your local health professional today, or contact a cerebral palsy attorney to find out if your child is eligible for financial compensation to cover therapy expenses.