Physical Therapy for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children: Utility, Advantages, and Disadvantages

Background: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental mental disorder in children, mainly characterized by attention deficit, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Its etiology is not yet clear, which greatly hinders the development of children's learning ability, social ability, and quality of life. Physical therapy is an emerging treatment method that is used more and more frequently in the treatment of ADHD. ADHD is a neurodevelopmental mental disorder in which the neural regulatory function of children is significantly lower than that of normal children of the same age. Physical therapy can stimulate the brain, correct abnormal blood flow and EEG waves, promote normal secretion of neurotransmitters and hormones, and thus improve ADHD.

Methods: A literature search is used to organize 66 influential articles, analyze the commonly used physical therapies for ADHD, explain their principles, effects, and shortcomings, and based on this, propose research prospects.

Results: Physical therapy has fewer side effects and can improve the neuroendocrine, brain, and cognitive functions of children with ADHD, improve the core symptoms and physical fitness of ADHD, promote the development of motor skills, and have a positive impact on their behavioral problems, academic performance, and social adaptation.

Conclusion: Physical therapy has great potential, but its accessibility, fun, and long-term efficacy need to be improved.