If your child shows any of these signs, it may be time for a neurological assessment:
- Missed Developmental Milestones: Falling behind in speech, motor skills, or social interaction, or losing previously mastered skills.
- Sudden Behavior Changes: Increased irritability, withdrawal, or disrupted sleep patterns.
- Sensory Issues: Unusual reactions to sights, sounds, or touch.
- Movement Difficulties: Problems with coordination, balance, or motor skills.
- Unexplained Physical Symptoms: Frequent headaches or muscle weakness without a clear cause.
Early intervention can improve outcomes. If you notice these signs, consult your pediatrician to evaluate your child’s needs and explore treatment options.
2022 Neurological examination of children
Understanding Neurological Assessments
A neurological assessment checks your child’s nervous system, covering the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles, to identify any issues early and facilitate better treatment options.
Purpose of Assessment
Neurological assessments help diagnose conditions that could impact your child’s development. They can uncover both inherited and acquired disorders. The main goals include:
- Checking cognitive and behavioral functions
- Evaluating physical and motor skills
- Detecting nervous system irregularities
- Setting baselines to track progress over time
Identifying problems early through these assessments can greatly improve treatment results. Here’s what to expect during the evaluation.
What to Expect
A standard evaluation generally includes the following:
Basic Physical Examination
- Measuring head circumference
- Testing muscle strength and tone
- Checking balance and coordination
- Using a reflex hammer to test reflexes
Developmental Evaluation
The healthcare provider will observe and test your child’s:
- Mental status by noting their interactions and responsiveness
- Motor skills through activities like pushing, pulling, or hopping
- Sensory processing abilities
“A neurological exam, also called a neuro exam, is an evaluation of your child’s nervous system that can be done in the healthcare provider’s office.” – Stanford Medicine Children’s Health
For infants, doctors also check primitive reflexes, such as:
- Blinking response
- Plantar reflex
- Crawling movements
- Moro reflex
- Tonic neck reflex
- Palmar and plantar grasp
The type and depth of testing depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and overall condition. Healthcare providers take care to keep your child comfortable while gathering the necessary information for diagnosis.
5 Key Warning Signs to Watch For
Keep an eye on these signs to spot potential neurological issues early.
Missed Developmental Milestones
If your child is consistently behind in areas like speech, motor skills, or social interaction – or if they lose skills they previously had – it’s time to speak with your pediatrician.
Sudden Changes in Behavior
Unexpected changes in behavior, such as increased irritability, withdrawing from social activities, or noticeable changes in sleep habits, could point to a need for professional evaluation.
Sensory Processing Issues
Unusual reactions to sights, sounds, or touch might indicate sensory processing challenges. If these reactions seem out of the ordinary, consider seeking a neurological assessment.
Decline in Movement Skills
Struggles with coordination, balance, or other motor skills can be a red flag. If your child is having increasing difficulty with physical activities, it’s worth getting it checked out.
Unexplained Physical Symptoms
Recurring headaches or unexplained muscle weakness shouldn’t be ignored. These could be signs of underlying neurological conditions that need attention.
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Getting Professional Help
Acting quickly when you notice issues in your child’s development or behavior can make a big difference. Knowing when to reach out for professional help is key to supporting your child’s growth.
When to See a Doctor
Early intervention can improve your child’s progress. Contact your pediatrician right away if you notice:
- Your child losing skills they previously mastered, like walking, talking, or feeding themselves
- Significant changes in behavior
- Ongoing delays in meeting developmental milestones
Trust your instincts as a parent. If you’re concerned, seeking an evaluation can provide clarity and guidance.
Services at HML Chiropractic & Functional Care
We offer specialized services designed to address developmental and neurological concerns.
| Assessment Type | Focus | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Consultation | Health history and current symptoms | Establishes a clear starting point |
| Functional Neurological Exam | Motor skills, reflexes, sensory processing | Pinpoints specific areas of concern |
| Developmental Assessment | Age-based milestones and skills | Monitors progress and benchmarks |
Dr. Alex Nelson and Dr. Lauren Nelson have expertise in managing various neurological conditions, including:
- ADHD and autism spectrum disorders
- Learning challenges
- Developmental delays
- Sensory processing difficulties
- Issues with coordination and balance
Our approach combines functional neurology with holistic care, creating personalized plans that address your child’s specific needs while supporting their overall development.
Why Early Assessment Matters
Early neurological assessments play a key role in supporting your child’s development and helping parents make informed decisions.
Quick Detection and Treatment
Catching issues early is crucial. During childhood, the brain is highly adaptable, which means early intervention can lead to better results. Arkansas Children’s Hospital highlights this, stating:
“Early diagnosis and intervention is key.”
Acting early takes advantage of the brain’s natural flexibility to improve outcomes.
Long-Term Benefits
Early assessments can lead to lasting positive effects by:
- Preventing complications before they arise
- Making therapies more effective
- Taking advantage of the brain’s developmental stages
- Minimizing additional challenges down the road
Here’s how early assessment impacts various conditions:
| Condition Type | Impact of Early Assessment |
|---|---|
| Urgent Medical | Quick identification of conditions needing surgery (e.g., brain tumors, hydrocephalus) |
| Developmental | Early start of targeted therapies to improve abilities |
| Behavioral | Faster implementation of effective support strategies |
These benefits also give parents the tools they need to support their children better.
Support for Parents
Early assessment provides parents with essential insights and resources to help their child thrive. It allows parents to:
- Better understand their child’s needs
- Access helpful services sooner
- Make informed treatment decisions
- Create a supportive home environment for learning and growth
- Collaborate effectively with healthcare professionals
Having a clear diagnosis reduces uncertainty and anxiety, offering guidance for the best intervention strategies. Armed with this knowledge, parents can take steps to help their child reach their full potential.
Next Steps for Parents
If you’ve noticed any of the warning signs mentioned earlier, take action right away. Start by documenting the specific behaviors you’ve observed, including when they occur and how often. Then, reach out to your child’s pediatrician for an evaluation. Acting early can make a big difference.
At HML Chiropractic & Functional Care, we know how overwhelming it can feel to navigate concerns about your child’s development. That’s why we’ve developed a clear, step-by-step approach to guide families. Here’s what we do:
- Listen to your concerns: Your insights are invaluable to understanding your child’s challenges.
- Review health history: A detailed look at your child’s medical background helps us see the bigger picture.
- Conduct thorough neurological assessments: These evaluations provide a deeper understanding of your child’s needs.
- Design personalized care plans: Our strategies focus on addressing your child’s unique situation.
By combining functional neurology with family chiropractic care, we aim to address your child’s needs in a holistic way. Our team is here to help your child make meaningful progress.
Taking Action Today
If you notice changes in behavior, missed developmental milestones, sensory or motor challenges, or unexplained physical symptoms, don’t wait. Contact your pediatrician for guidance.
For specialized care, HML Chiropractic & Functional Care provides in-depth evaluations and personalized treatment plans designed to support your child’s overall well-being – not just individual symptoms.