Home
Blog

Optimize Your Family’s Health with Chiropractic Sympathetic Nervous System Care

No items found.
December 7, 2023

Have you ever wondered why a colicky infant can’t calm down and be soothed? Why it is so hard to redirect a wound-up toddler or young child in the middle of a meltdown? Or why a child with Autism, ADHD, and anxiety struggles for so long to calm and regulate in certain situations? Or how about you, mom and dad - do you ever feel like your heart is constantly racing, your stress levels are maxed out 24/7, and you can’t fall asleep?

In this blog, we’ll be diving into the fascinating world of the Sympathetic Nervous System (SNS), which activates the body’s “fight or flight” stress response. It also controls things like our adrenal glands, cortisol levels, inflammation, and so much more. If you feel like you or your child has a “gas pedal” and stress response that you can’t get turned off, this information is for you!

Flight or Flight - The Body’s Protective Response:

The Sympathetic Nervous System is a crucial part of our body’s defense mechanism, commonly known as the “fight or flight” response. It’s a natural, adaptive reaction that’s essential for our short-term survival and daily life. Imagine it as a biological alarm system designed to be activated when we face a potential threat or danger. When the threat is imminent, it prepares us to respond swiftly.  However, what’s equally important is that it’s also meant to be turned “off” once the stressor or threat has passed.

The ability to switch gears between readiness and relaxation is a critical component of our bodies. It ensures that we don’t remain in a heightened state of alertness indefinitely, preventing unnecessary stress and strain on our nervous system. However, when this balance is disrupted, especially in the context of our children, it can lead to a range of challenges.

The Sympathetic Nervous System and Kids

Our children are supposed to spend the majority of their time in parasympathetic “growth and development” mode, not in a constant state of “fight or flight.”  In this state, their bodies are free to grow, learn, and thrive so this is the ideal setting for healthy development.

However, when the Sympathetic Nervous System becomes persistently “stuck on,” it can have detrimental effects on children. This continuous activation of the fight or flight response often manifests first as colic, making it difficult for infants to settle and sleep. As children grow, the signs of a “stuck on SNS” become more evident, including constipation, frequent tantrums and meltdowns, behavioral issues, sensory challenges, and more.

Sympathetics “Stuck On” - Developmental Delays and Other Neurological Challenges

One of the most significant factors contributing to developmental delays and neurological disorders in children is the continuous activation of their sympathetic nervous system. This persistent stuck-on-the-gas pedal state can be likened to having a car with a jammed accelerator - it’s constantly revving in overdrive. 

The results of this overactivity can be profound, exacerbating conditions like Autism, ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), and anxiety. When children’s nervous systems are unable to switch back to the calm and restorative parasympathetic mode, it places an extraordinary burden on their physical, emotional, and cognitive development. 

In the world of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care, we use the term subluxation to describe a situation where the body’s stress response gets stuck in the “on” position. It’s as if the alarm is ringing continuously, and the body remains in a perpetual state of readiness. 

Dysautonomia, then, refers to the imbalance within the autonomic and central nervous system. It’s a condition where the body struggles to maintain equilibrium, often with an excessive sympathetic overdrive. This can lead to a wide range of physical and emotional health challenges, particularly in children who are still developing. 

The connection between these factors is significant, and understanding them is crucial for addressing the root causes of various health challenges in children.

How to Find and Measure a Stuck On Sympathetic Nervous System

To identify and quantify the extent of a dysregulated nervous system, we utilize cutting-edge technology known as INSiGHT Scans. These scans not only pinpoint the presence of sympathetic overactivity but also provide a precise location of major subluxations that may be contributing to the issue.

By understanding the exact areas affected, a Neurologically-Focused Chiropractor can tailor a custom care plan to help the body regain its natural balance. This personalized approach is a game-changer for children and their families who have struggled with the consequences of a continuously activated Sympathetic Nervous System.

To learn more about the Sympathetic Nervous System and its impact on your child’s health, check out the full article on the PX Docs website. If you’d like to get yourself or your child scanned to determine if a stuck sympathetic nervous system is contributing to your current health challenges, reach out to us at Pinnacle Chiropractic today. If you are not local to us, check out the PX Docs directory to find an office near you.

Don’t let your child’s health be compromised by a persistently activated stress response; there is hope, and we’re here to help you find it. Let’s bring balance back to your kid and family together!

Stay Connected

Subscribe to receive the latest blog posts and health insights to your inbox.

By subscribing, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later.
Reviews

Patient Stories: Discover Reviews by Satisfied Chiropractic Patients

Hear what our patients have to say about their experience at Pinnacle.

They have been the biggest support team for all my pregnancy
I love Pinnacle! Every single staff member has made such a positive impact on my pregnancy. I cannot express how grateful I am for the way they have helped my body and back feel. They have been the biggest support team for all my pregnancy and if you want support for your self, wife, partner, children, I highly recommend them.
I am so thankful to Pinnacle for the confidence I have that my body is right and ready for labor.
100% recommend for pregnant mommas! I have been receiving weekly adjustments since I was about 10 weeks pregnant, and have had nothing short of an amazing experience at Pinnacle Chiropractic! The staff here is incredible and it is evident that they truly care for their patients needs. Since receiving prenatal care, I have had tremendous relief in the lower back pain that I experienced prior to pregnancy and have experienced little to no pelvic discomfort. Weekly pelvic adjustments have made a huge difference in my pregnancy symptoms thus far, and I am so thankful to pinnacle for the confidence I have that my body is right and ready for labor.
Insights + Tips

Discover the Natural Benefits of Chiropractic Care

Learn about the benefits and get latest in chiropractic care.

Children at a nervous system based chiropractic office.

Our Kids Are Not Okay... AND HERE'S WHY

Chronic illness in children is at an all-time high, and genetics and toxins aren’t the full story. Learn how stress and nervous system dysfunction play a crucial role—and how Pinnacle Chiropractic can help restore balance and health naturally.
Read Article
A pregnant woman lying comfortably in bed using a U-shaped pregnancy pillow.

Best Ways to Sleep Comfortably During Pregnancy

Struggling to sleep during pregnancy? Discover the best ways to improve comfort, including the Momcozy Pregnancy Pillow and prenatal chiropractic care.
Read Article
A neatly packed hospital bag with essentials for mom, baby, and support persons, symbolizing preparation for a natural delivery.

Preparing for Baby: Hospital Bag Essentials and Newborn Must-Haves

A comprehensive checklist of hospital bag essentials and newborn must-haves for moms planning a natural vaginal delivery. Stay prepared and confident with this guide.
Read Article
Pregnant woman receiving a gentle chiropractic adjustment from a Webster Certified chiropractor.

Can Prenatal Chiropractic Care Make Labor Easier?

Discover how the Webster Technique and prenatal chiropractic care can help prepare your body for an easier labor by aligning your pelvis, reducing tension, and enhancing nervous system function.
Read Article
Contact Us

Visit Our Office

Contact us for expert chiropractic care in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton, FL.

A woman holding a baby with a pink flower on her shirt.
A woman with long hair and a polka dot shirt.
A man is holding a young boy on his shoulders.
Google LogoFive Star Rating
130+Reviews

Address

Pinnacle Chiropractic
7984 Cooper Creek Blvd., Suite #104
University Park, FL 34201
Open in Google Maps