Right and Left Brain Development: The Chiropractic Approach to Cognitive and Emotional Growth
The brain is an incredible organ, divided into two hemispheres—the right and the left. While they work together seamlessly, each side has unique functions that play a crucial role in development, behavior, and learning.
At Purpose Driven Chiropractic, we explore how neurological imbalances between these hemispheres can affect your child’s growth and how chiropractic care supports healthy brain development.
Right Brain vs. Left Brain: What’s the Difference?
Right Hemisphere: Often referred to as the “emotional brain,” it controls creativity, emotions, social awareness, intuition, and big-picture thinking. It also plays a significant role in regulating the body’s stress response.
Left Hemisphere: Known as the “logical brain,” it governs language, analytical thinking, problem-solving, and detail-oriented tasks. It helps with sequencing, math, and critical thinking.
While these functions are generalized, both hemispheres communicate through the corpus callosum, a bundle of nerve fibers that ensures balance and integration.
📖 Read More about Brain Development 🧠
What Happens When There’s Imbalance?
When one hemisphere becomes overactive or underdeveloped compared to the other, it can lead to:
Sensory processing issues (hypersensitivity or under-responsiveness)
Emotional dysregulation (anxiety, impulsivity, mood swings)
Attention difficulties (ADHD-like behaviors)
Learning difficulties (dyslexia, dysgraphia)
This imbalance often results from early neurological stress, such as birth trauma, developmental delays, or chronic stress exposure.
The Role of the Nervous System
The autonomic nervous system (ANS), responsible for regulating stress and relaxation, relies on proper communication between both hemispheres. When the ANS is overwhelmed (due to birth trauma, emotional stress, or physical tension), it can disrupt this balance, affecting how a child:
Processes information
Regulates emotions
Coordinates movements
Focuses and learns
The Neurological Impact of Chiropractic Adjustments
Dr. Heidi Haavik’s research has shown that chiropractic adjustments help synchronize brain activity, particularly in the prefrontal cortex. Her studies on the N30 wave demonstrate how adjustments create greater connectivity between the right and left hemispheres, leading to:
Improved emotional regulation
Enhanced focus and attention
Better motor control and coordination
Strengthened cognitive processing
This synchronization is crucial for children experiencing neurological imbalance, as it helps create better adaptability and resilience within the nervous system.
The Neurological Approach to Brain Balance
At Purpose Driven Chiropractic, we assess the neurological stress patterns that impact brain balance. Our approach includes:
Comprehensive Neurological Assessments: Identifying which hemisphere is under or overactive.
Gentle Chiropractic Adjustments: Supporting nervous system regulation to promote better communication between brain regions.
Sensory and Motor Integration Strategies: Encouraging activities that stimulate the underdeveloped hemisphere while calming the overactive one.
By addressing neurological interference, we help the brain return to a state of balance and optimal function.
Signs Your Child Might Have Brain Imbalance
Struggles with focus and attention
Delayed speech or motor milestones
Anxiety or emotional outbursts
Coordination issues or clumsiness
Difficulty with reading, writing, or math
These are signs of potential neurological stress that deserve attention.
📅 Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can support your child’s neurological health and development.
