In life, we often find ourselves trying to avoid the challenges that seem to overwhelm us, much like a herd of animals fleeing from a storm. However, the buffalo, has a unique response. Instead of running away, the buffalo runs directly into the storm. This bold approach allows the buffalo to move through the storm more quickly and with less damage. In the context of pediatric neurological challenges, such as autism or ADHD, this metaphor can be incredibly powerful. Families dealing with these conditions often face what feels like a “perfect storm” of neurological stress. It’s important to run toward it with the intention of addressing the root cause, rather than shying away from the overwhelming chaos by modifying the world around us.

A “perfect storm” of neurological stress is the cumulative effect of various environmental, emotional, and physiological factors that push the nervous system into an unbalanced state. For children, this storm often manifests as a range of developmental or behavioral challenges. Neurologically, the body becomes caught in a constant overactive state of fight-or-flight (often called the “gas pedal”). This leads to heightened stress responses, making it difficult for a child to process the world in a calm and regulated way. To help a child move through this storm, we must support the nervous system in finding balance- an essential shift from protection mode to growth mode.

One of the key players in this balance is the vagus nerve, which acts as the body’s “brake pedal” for the nervous system. The vagus nerve controls parasympathetic functions, which helps us rest, digest, and recover from stress. In many children dealing with neurological challenges, the vagus nerve is underactive, making it difficult for their bodies to relax and recalibrate after stressors.

The key to overcoming this “storm” is neuroplasticity- the brain’s ability to adapt and change in response to new experiences. Just as the buffalo runs toward the storm to minimize its impact, families can take charge of their child’s neurological health by actively addressing the root causes of these imbalances. With the right support and guidance, it is possible to promote the brain’s ability to reorganize itself, heal, and find new pathways of functioning. This approach is not about masking symptoms, but rather empowering the nervous system to create lasting change.

LESS IS MORE

Chiropractic care focused on neurology helps by gently supporting the nervous system to function at its best. By promoting balance between the sympathetic (“gas pedal”) and parasympathetic (“brake pedal”) systems, chiropractic adjustments can encourage the body’s natural ability to regulate stress, improve emotional responses, and enhance overall brain function.

This neuro-based approach nurtures neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to reorganize and adapt, ultimately helping children with challenges like ADHD or autism to better manage their neurological responses and find more calm in the storm.

This is best achieved by using a “less is more” approach with care to avoid overwhelming the system. Often times overwhelming the system can shut it down and not allow healing growth to happen. Addressing one primary root layer of subluxation at a time allows for each layer to be peeled back.

Vaden, Rory. “Buffalo Charge The Storm Story, 17 Aug. 2020, TedX Talk.