Autism, Asperger’s, ADHD: Different Symptoms, Same Cause? Part 2

From my previous blog, we introduced the concept of Functional Disconnection Syndrome (FDS). FDS  is a term used to describe the imbalance and “disconnection” in communication between the two hemispheres of the brain, leading to disorders such as autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder and more.

We discussed that WHEN  the disconnection occurs could define the type of disorder expressed because of the timing of our brain’s development. However, many ask WHY or HOW does a disconnection occur in the first place. In his book, Disconnected Kids, world renowned chiropractic neurologist, professor, and researcher in childhood neurological disorders, Dr. Robert Melillo, gives us some clues.

Dr. Melillo states, “I believe- and there is plenty of supporting evidence to prove- that the epidemic rise in neurobehavioral and neuroacademic disorders is being caused by negative influences in the environment- namely, many of the practices that make up the typical modern American lifestyle.” He goes on to list the major contributors as the following:

1. Lack of physical exercise

2. Overweight and obesity

3. Absentee parenting

4. Television and computer games

5. Stressful pregnancies and births

6. Stressful lifestyles

7. Environmental toxins

8. Inadequate nutrition

All of these contributors create an inadequate or over stimulation of the brain and can have profound effects on the rapidly developing brain of children. It is Dr. Melillo’s opinion that physical inactivity is the most dangerous contributor. Simply put, the way children use and move their bodies has a profound effect on brain development. However, some doctors argue that other contributors may account for the startling rise in these childhood disorders.

Medical neurologist, Dr.Russell Blaylock M.D. has written extensively on neurotoxins, especially vaccinations, in our environment and the effects on our brain. In a concise, well written and referenced article on neurotoxins, Dr. Blaylock states:

“We have seen that the policy of giving numerous vaccinations to individuals, especially infants and small children, is shear idiocy. A considerable number of studies have shown conclusively that such a practice can lead to severe injury to the brain by numerous mechanisms. Because the child’s brain is undergoing a period of rapid growth from the third trimester of pregnancy until age 2 years, his or her brain is at considerable risk from this insane policy.”

It is my observation over 20 years in private practice that oftentimes a combination of the above contributors leads to Functional Disconnection Syndrome. For example, a high percentage of infants are born with medically assisted, traumatic births that can lead to sometimes subtle injuries to the neck. They may go untreated or undetected by pediatricians who are not familiar with how to detect these injuries. The injury can result in stress to the nervous system and musculature in the neck, creating an imbalance in the stimulation of the brain. Imagine this immature, imbalanced brain now being barraged with 3-4 vaccinations with neurotoxins and we have the perfect storm for FDS.

So what is the take home message here? Look carefully at the contributors to FDS and evaluate how you can eliminate some from your child’s list. For example, have your child examined by a chiropractor experienced in treating children to determine if they have upper neck injury from birth or early life. If you choose to vaccinate your child, give them one at a time, wait for the brain to develop more, and make sure they have optimal nutritional support to allow the brain to handle the neurotoxic effect from the vaccination. Be proactive and educate yourself on these contributors and be prepared to go toe to toe with uninformed friends, family, and even doctors.

Don’t miss my next blog as I will discuss some exciting, emerging treatment options for those children who are already suffering with symptoms of Functional Disconnection Syndrome.

Joe Bertsch, D.C.