Prevalence of ADHD
According to the Royal College of Psychiatrists and NICE, approximately half a million individuals in the UK have received an Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) diagnosis.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterised by challenges with attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. These symptoms often impact social, academic, and occupational functioning, as well as day-to-day activities.
General Symptoms of ADHD
In 2013, updates to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) introduced three subtypes of ADHD to improve diagnostic accuracy: inattentive, hyperactive/impulsive, and combined types. While ADHD in children is well-researched, adult presentations are less understood. I believe this is due to adults developing coping mechanisms or learning to mask their symptoms over time.
Key symptoms include:
Inattentiveness: Easily distracted, disorganised, and prone to careless mistakes.
Hyperactivity: Excessive talking, fidgeting, and restlessness (these symptoms often decrease with age).
Impulsiveness: Difficulty considering risks, impatience, and acting without forethought.
Causes of ADHD
ADHD can be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors:
Environmental: Childhood stress, family challenges (e.g., divorce, parental depression, or abuse), low birth weight, premature birth, and head trauma increase the likelihood of developing ADHD.
Genetics: ADHD is linked to genes affecting dopamine and norepinephrine production, neurotransmitters responsible for regulating impulsivity, risk-taking, and attention. Lower levels of these neurotransmitters contribute to ADHD symptoms.
Conventional Treatments
ADHD is commonly managed with medication and/or talking therapies. The most prescribed medications include stimulants like methylphenidate and amphetamines, which enhance and balance dopamine and norepinephrine activity. While these medications can reduce symptoms, they do not cure ADHD and may have side effects, such as insomnia, gastrointestinal discomfort, and increased blood pressure. NICE emphasises that the long-term benefits of ADHD medications are not well-established.
Can Acupuncture help with ADHD?
Although traditional Chinese medical texts do not specifically mention ADHD, they do address its symptomatology. Giovanni Maciocia theorised that ADHD stems from imbalances in the Heart, Liver, and Spleen organs and their emotional-mental-spiritual aspects. Additionally, it is suggested that Kidney energy may also play a role.
In Chinese Medicine, disease arises when Yin and Yang are imbalanced. ADHD is often viewed as a condition where Yin is deficient, leading to an excess of Yang energy. This imbalance can manifest as restlessness, excessive speech, and difficulty concentrating. Acupuncture treatments aim to restore balance by addressing the patient’s unique symptoms and organ imbalances.
Research on Acupuncture for ADHD
Recent studies support acupuncture’s potential in managing ADHD symptoms:
Zhuo et al. (2022): A study on Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation (TEAS) involving children aged 6–12 showed significant benefits after four weeks of bi-weekly treatments. Participants demonstrated increased hippocampal activity, elevated dopamine levels, and improved oxygenation in the cerebral cortex, mimicking the effects of ADHD medication.
Ni et al. (2014): This study compared acupuncture to methylphenidate. Both treatments yielded similar short-term benefits; however, acupuncture had significantly higher long-term efficacy.
May and Bennett (2023): A case study found that two acupuncture sessions per week over four weeks reduced self-perceived stress and ADHD symptoms in a patient taking atomoxetine. Treatments were tailored based on presenting symptoms.
Lee et al. (2011): Acupuncture improved attention by enhancing cerebral nerve growth and synaptic development in the cerebral cortex.
Ang (2023): A systematic review of 14 studies involving 1,185 patients revealed that acupuncture alone or combined with conventional medicine improved ADHD symptoms, including hyperactivity, impulsivity, and learning difficulties. Acupuncture outperformed conventional medicine in overall treatment efficacy.
Conclusion
ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that significantly impacts daily life. While conventional treatments provide symptom relief, they are not without limitations. Acupuncture offers a promising complementary approach, addressing ADHD symptoms holistically by restoring Yin-Yang balance and enhancing neurological function.
Emerging evidence highlights the potential of acupuncture as a safe and effective treatment, with long-term benefits for individuals with ADHD. For those seeking a natural and individualised approach, acupuncture may be a valuable addition to conventional therapies, helping to improve quality of life and overall well-being.
If you're struggling with ADHD and want to explore how acupuncture in Edinburgh can support your wellbeing, contact me or book your appointment today.
Zhuo et al. (2022): https://www.nature.com/articles/s41398-022-01914-0
Ni et al. (2014): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25220091/
May and Bennett (2023): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37534023/
Lee et al. (2011): https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11655-011-0701-7
Ang (2023): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36837594/
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