Does this scenario sound familiar? Your child suddenly covers their ears in a noisy restaurant, has a meltdown at the grocery store, or becomes distressed by the tags in their clothing. As a parent, these moments can feel overwhelming and isolating. You might have been told that these are simply behavioral issues or that your child will “grow out of it.” But what if we told you there’s a deeper, often overlooked reason for your child’s struggles—one rooted in their nervous system?

The Reality of Sensory Processing Challenges

If you’re reading this, it’s likely you’ve seen firsthand how overwhelming sensory overload can be for your child. You’re not alone. Recent CDC studies show that up to 40% of school-aged children experience at least one chronic health condition, and sensory processing challenges are on the rise.

Understanding Overstimulation: It’s More Than Just Behavior

So, what’s actually happening when your child becomes overwhelmed by sensory input? Imagine a traffic jam in your child’s nervous system. Their brain is receiving far more sensory information than it can effectively process at once. This isn’t just “behavior” — it’s a sign of how their brain and nervous system are responding to overload.

The Autonomic Nervous System: The Body’s Control Center

Your child’s nervous system is made up of two key branches:

• Sympathetic System (fight or flight)
• Parasympathetic System (rest and digest)

When your child becomes overstimulated, their nervous system can get stuck in sympathetic dominance—basically, their alert system stays “on.” This creates a cascade of effects, which might look like:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Digestive issues
• Emotional dysregulation
• Increased sensitivity to sensory input

The “Perfect Storm”: What Contributes to Sensory Challenges

Sensory processing struggles often arise from a combination of factors that we call the “Perfect Storm”:

1. Prenatal Stress: Stress during pregnancy can influence how a developing brain processes sensory input.
2. Birth Experiences: Interventions like C-sections, forceps, or vacuum extractions can put physical stress on the nervous system.
3. Early Childhood Factors: Environmental stressors, developmental challenges, and early experiences can all impact nervous system development.

Recognizing When Your Child is Overstimulated

As a parent, you may notice certain signs when your child is experiencing sensory overload:

Physical Signs:

• Headaches
• Nausea
• Unusual fatigue

Emotional Signs:

• Increased irritability
• Rising anxiety
• Sudden emotional outbursts

Behavioral Signs:

• Difficulty focusing
• Frequent meltdowns
• Actively seeking quiet spaces

A Different Approach to Support Your Child

While traditional approaches often focus on avoiding triggers or managing symptoms, there’s a better way to address the root causes of sensory overload: Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care.

At ABQ Family Chiropractic, we use advanced technology called INSiGHT Scans, which help us pinpoint exactly where your child’s nervous system needs support. These non-invasive scans can be done while your child sits comfortably (even in your lap!) and provide valuable insights into how their sensory system is reacting to the world around them. Then, through precise, gentle chiropractic adjustments, we release stuck sympathetic stress and activate the parasympathetic system, allowing for better regulation and balance.

Moving Forward

It’s important to remember that your child isn’t choosing to feel overwhelmed — their nervous system is genuinely struggling to process the world around them. The good news? With the right support, their nervous system can regain balance, leading to better regulation and overall comfort.

Above all, know that you are not alone in this journey. Many families are facing similar challenges, and with the right approach, there is hope for your child to experience the world without feeling constantly overwhelmed. We are here to help! Don’t hesitate to reach out to ABQ Family Chiropractic to schedule a consultation. If you’re not local to us, you can find a PX Docs office near you through the PX Docs directory.

Your child’s sensitivity isn’t a flaw — it’s a part of who they are. With the proper support and understanding, you can help them develop the tools they need to navigate sensory experiences with more comfort and confidence.