Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), WITH symptoms of POST TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)

Description of the situation

• An 11-year-old boy with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Symptoms of ADHD: hyperactivity, restlessness, irritability, disobedience, impulsivity, poor sleep, mood swings, inability to concentrate, high muscle tone, high sensitivity, unable to control emotions and behaviour, poor social skills. Proprioceptive disorders: poor body awareness, clumsiness, avoidance of certain activities.

Goal

• To reduce symptoms of ADHD.
• To reduce the general state of agitation.
• To improve sleep quality.
• Normalise blood pressure.
• Stabilise mood.
• Improve concentration.
• Achieve a relaxation response.

Process

Results

The results of this study confirmed the hypothesis:

The general state of arousal was reduced by Vibroacoustic Therapy (VAT) on the autonomic nervous system (ANS). Dysregulated arousal states were regulated by activation of the child's ventral vagus complex (vagal brake) (Punkanen, et al, 2017).

• Reducing hyperarousal mechanisms improved sleep duration and sleep efficiency (Frazier; Morse, et.al. , 2013).
• By regulating VNS, blood pressure normalized to near or normal.
• A relaxation response was achieved. Using VAT at a frequency of 40 hz (general relaxation), where VAT can act as a driving force to reset the gamma frequency band in the brain (Skille), as well as relaxing music was a means of comfort and safety, as well as a safe therapeutic interaction.
• VAT at 52 Hz, providing rhythmic entrainment and sound vibration, regulated abnormal neural oscillatory activity (stimulated pain inhibition mechanisms that reduce pain impulses to the brain) (Leuk, et al., 2020), relieved muscle tension, and reduced back pain.
• Targeted application of 52 Hz vibration, which is specific for low back pain (Skille), resonated muscles or muscle groups with the frequency, released muscle tension (Bartel, 2021) and reduced low back pain.
• The reduction in back pain led to deeper relaxation (Boyd-Brewer, 2003).
• The relaxation response was calming, with cumulative physiological and emotional effects: improved mood and sleep quality (Ala-Ruona, Punkanen & Campbell, 2015), as well as improved concentration.

Conclusions

VAT as a positive bodily experience: patient's body awareness, need for physical comfort improved (Winkel, 2018).

• The results of the study confirmed the hypothesis and the objectives have been achieved.
• Based on the results of this case, further treatment is recommended.