Kids with special needs respond well to an integrative medicine approach. This approach addresses the root causes of childhood disorders, which include complex metabolic problems such as dysfunction of the gut, the immune system and the detoxification systems. Oftentimes, special needs children suffer from asthma, allergies and eczema, which create a persistent inflammatory state in the body.
Detoxing Kids with Special Needs
With an integrative medicine approach, detoxification is needed to get the “bad stuff” out. This usually involves removing accumulated toxins with various therapies. In the case of environmental allergies, the offending allergens are difficult to avoid, as they are in the air and surroundings. Therefore, the focus is usually to help the body expel allergens already trapped in the respiratory system. For this purpose, we turn to salt therapy.
How Can Salt Therapy Help Kids with Special Needs?
During salt therapy, the salt particles enter the lungs through the nasal passages, accelerating mucus clearance and improving lung function while killing harmful bacteria, sweeping out allergens and soothing the respiratory system. Salt therapy is completely safe for everyone—from babies to geriatric patients—and helps prevent ear and sinus infections. Moreover, the antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties of salt have been documented to help with chronic inflammatory conditions like asthma and eczema.
While reducing inflammation in the body, the negative ions in the salt-infused air have a relaxing effect on the nervous system, the same as seaside air. In addition, children on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorders enjoy the tactile nature of the room. They love to sit in the soothing environment, which is a safe indoor play space, and feel the salt run between their fingers.
Salt Therapy Provides Relief from Symptoms Caused by the Following Conditions:
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Cold/Flu
- Ear Infections
- Eczema/Psoriasis
- Multi-Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome
- Respiratory Infections
- Sinus Infections
- Tonsillitis
Is Salt Therapy Safe?
Yes! HEPA air filters in the room capture and remove up to 99.97% of airborne particles, including viral particles, while activated carbon filters remove volatile organic compounds. A UV light kills 98.8% of bacteria and viruses on surfaces.
A quote attributed to Hippocrates, the father of medicine, sums up the integrative medicine approach: “Cure sometimes, heal often, comfort always.” Wise words for both practitioners and parents as they embark on the complex task of restoring balance and healing to a special needs child.
