When approached from a functional neurological standpoint, treating Asperger’s is really no different from treating any other neurological disorder. The Pediatric Health Assessment Form is the initial step. This will help identify potential metabolic deficiencies such as impaired gastrointestinal function, neurotransmitter production, and many others that often contribute to this condition. Additionally there is a vast array of subjective questions describing certain behaviors that are typical of children with imbalances in cortical function. The assessment form is compared to the findings in the neurological examination and a treatment plan is created based upon the findings.
Typically children with Asperger’s syndrome have a more high functioning left hemisphere in comparison to the right. Oftentimes these children may be functioning at a genius level in some areas, while severely challenged in others. Neurologically the hemispheres of the brain work to keep each other in check. In this case, the left hemisphere has become dominant and it suppresses the function of the right hemisphere, which is why social skills (typically a right brain feature) are limited in individuals with Asperger’s syndrome. It is interesting to note that Isaac Newton is speculated to have had Asperger’s syndrome. In his case his unimpeded left brain was able to expand the world’s knowledge of astronomy, physics, mathematics, alchemy, and theology. Many scholars consider him to be one of the most influential men in human history.
Treating Asperger’s neurologically involves treatments aimed toward stimulating the lower-functioning right hemisphere in an attempt to bring it up in function to match the higher functioning left hemisphere. The treatment options available are beyond the scope of this webpage and are specifically developed according to the capabilities of the individual patient.
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