Complementary and alternative treatments

Many complementary and alternative treatments are used to help children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But there is little good-quality research on any of them.[1] [2] Below, we outline two of the most common alternative treatments for ADHD. But we need much more research to say whether these treatments can help improve symptoms. Also, these treatments can be expensive and take up a lot of time.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback works on the principle that you can learn to control behaviour by getting better at recognising your body's signals. There are two types of biofeedback used for ADHD.

Electromyogram (EMG) biofeedback encourages children to relax by helping them to recognise when their muscles tense.[3] A machine called an electromyograph is used to measure the tension in their muscles.
Electroencephalogram (EEG) biofeedback helps children recognise 'good' brainwaves that allow them to concentrate.[1] A machine called an electroencephalograph records your child's brainwaves as a pattern of waves and spikes across a screen. The pattern changes when your child is alert, daydreaming or sleepy. A computer converts this pattern of waves into sounds or pictures. Your child knows from the sounds or pictures whether he or she is producing 'good' brainwaves. Your child can then learn how to keep these 'good' brain waves going for longer.[1]

Visual exercises

A variety of visual exercises are used to treat children with ADHD. Some exercises are meant to help children pay attention by improving how their eyes focus. Other exercises involve wearing coloured lenses. Visual exercises can vary a great deal because experts have not agreed which ones work best.[1]

References

Mercugliano M, Power TJ, and Blum NJ. Alternative treatments for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In: The Clinician's practical guide to attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Paul H Brookes Publishing, Baltimore, U.S.A.; 1999.
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network. Attention deficit and hyperkinetic disorders in children and young people. Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network clinical guideline 52. 2001. Available at: http://www.sign.ac.uk (accessed 18 April 2006).
Chan E. The role of complementary and alternative medicine in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics. 2002; 23 (supplement): S37-S45.

This information does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned you might have a medical problem please ask your Boots pharmacy team in your local Boots store, or see your doctor.