Question
Dr. Boss:

I have a daughter that will be 3 in March.  She has been dx with hypotonia.  She also has developmental delays, sensory processing disorder and a speech disorder (almost completely unintelligable.  What can a chiropractor do to help her?  Is accupuncture anything that would benefit her?  I understand a diet high in fat is good for her.  We do have her taking 1 capsul of fish oil a day.  What are other foods that would help her?

Thank you,
Debbie

Answer
Dear Debbie,

Thank you for your questions and I hope that I can provide some answers that may help you.

First of all I want to let you know that I am very sorry for your daughter and your family that you are having to go through this.  However, I know that God has a plan for your daughter and you.  I will pray for you both and ask God to bless you in a glorious way.

Hypotonia is something that can respond to chiropractic treatment and also to acupuncture treatment.  I am going to assume that the condition has resulted in developmental delays which will have to be addressed.  I would recommend that you find a good chiropractor and schedule a consult.  You go in to see him, talk about your daughter and your concerns and want you would hope for in a treatment.  Then let him answer your questions and give you his plan.  I would ask you to do this first and then schedule an examination in which you take your daughter and let the DC exam her and give further recommendations.  Often times, spinal dysfunctions will result in these types of problems, my niece is an example.  She had problems early on with being able to hold up her head and follow things with her eyes.  I treated her and within just a few treatments, she could hold up her head and was alert as a child of her age should have been.

Acupuncture is very effective in conditions such as hypotonia.  It would be fabulous is you could find a chiropractor who is also an acupuncturist.  Call and ask and see what kind of acupuncture experience they have.

You are right on with the fish oil.  Fats are essential for nerve tissue and brain development.  That is why we don't watch them so much in the diet of children.  I would continue your present practice and discuss your nutritional concerns with the DC that you consult with.

After you consult with the DC, I would be happy to give you my opinion of their recommendations.  It is difficult for me to recommend anything in Rebekah's case as I am unable to examine her.  You can always contact me via allexperts.com.

I hope this provides you with some confidence. Please update on her status.

God Bless,

Dr. Boss