Seeking Mom's of Children with Tourette's Syndrome

I, too, have a son that suffers from tics (motor and phonic). I recently read some information about magnesium being deficient in kids with tics (it has to do with muscle control). I don't know the research behind it and have not had the opportunity to seek it out yet. It is hard...there is so much information/help(?) out there, but it is hard to filter out the money making schemes from the really helpful material. Blessings on this...and know that you are not alone!
C.

I moved here from Atlanta, GA where I worked in a practice called Parkaire Consultants. The owner of this practice is an expert in Tourette's Syndrome and has 2 boys in their 30's now who have Tourette's Syndrome. So she has personal experience as well as professional experience. She speaks all over the world about Tourette's. Her name is Sherry Pruitt. The website is parkaireconsultants.com. She has also written a book called Teaching the Tiger. There are various conferences around the country. Her son even speaks at some of these about his experiences growing up with Tourette's. You may find something interesting from the website. If you needed more support you could also probably call the office to get more resources.
Good luck. I know this is difficult.

I worked with a young boy about the same age with Tourette's and ADD. During my research, I learned of David E Coming's book on this subject. What seemed to be helpful, although it wasn't a perfect situation (the child was living away for school and the food supply there was not great), was neurotransmitter testing. Two companies do this non-invasive testing: Neuroscience, Inc and Sanesco, the latter being a bit simpler to use. From urine and saliva sample, the labs also supply some guidance on specific amino acids that can "rebuild" what may be missing or low and inhibit what may be high. Using the recommended protocol plus an excellent diet (unrefined, organic, colorful) and some Essential Fatty Acids and a quality multi vitamin/mineral could help the body find homeostasis. And none of these can harm the body. Perhaps your son is old enough to give it a go.

Hi T. Lynn. I don't have a child with Tourette's but I do have 6 kids with all kinds of special needs. Have you contacted the Warmline Family Resource Center? They may be able to get you networked with some other parents. I have to admit I don't know a lot about Tourette's, but I thought had varying degrees. Even though it's not a qualifying diagnosis, could he qualify for Regional Center, or had he, under their fifth category? Another thought is using your county public health department to talk with a public health nurse to see if they know of anything medical or otherwise in the way of treatment. I know the PHN we had helped out a lot for my son with Asperger's and our youngest with Downs.

Wish I could be of more help.

My son who is now about 20 had that diagnosis in 3rd grade seems to be over the ticks, but has behavioral issues. Have you been to a teaching hospital that may have a great neurology dept.? Many times they are up to current research. The other thing that could help is getting the name of a reputable counselor who understands the syndrome. I think you need emotional support from other families who share your struggles. Go online a looks for a Tourette Syndrome support group. Maybe there is a chat room. Spend time talking with your son and help to build up his self esteem. God made him just the way he is and that he is loved and special in His eyes and yours. People say things out of ignorance or fear. Get him used to just explaining what the issue is. There are even professional athletes that have T.S. I believe in basketball. Finally, I bought a book called CHILDREN WITH TOURETTE SYNDROME A PARENTS GUIDE edited by T. Haerle..Woodbine House publisher. Good luck...J.

Hi T. Lynn. I am an acupuncturist & Chinese herbalist and I've had experience treating Tourette's with both of these. I specialize in treating children & families, and as your son is 17 years old, he would be treated essentially as an adult. Depending on the extent of his symptoms he can get great relief through Chinese medicine. I also work a lot with nutrition which can enhance the treatment even more. I would be happy to talk about any of this with you or him if you have any questions. Take care.

J. Stevens, L.Ac.
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www.yourwholefamilywellness.com

Hi T.,

As a mental health professional, I have known quite a few kids with Tourette's. I bet there are some homeopathics that would help, but I think it would be a good idea to pursue them with a homeopath. I wonder if there might be a support group for teens with Tourette's around the area. As you said, it can be very stigmatizing and isolating, so a group of like-minded birds to hang out with weekly and vent or listen or whatever might be very supportive and healing.

Best of luck, and blessings to you both--

L.

Hi T. - I'm curious about this as well. My 6yr old has severe tics - the Dr. hasn't quite called it Tourette's yet. Her symptoms seem to heighten whenever there is a change in routine, lack of sleep, or excitement ( like Christmas time.)

I told her there is medication for it and she really wants to try it - Dr. said she could take Tenex or Clomidine. He also said it would make her sleepy though. SHe wants to do it but I don't want her to get sleepy in school, so we may give it try in the summer.

She's had one incidence at school where kids have laughed but ever since she's apparently learned to hold them in (I guess she's a lucky one to do this so early on)

I too would loeve to learn more about diet and this affliction.

Thanks you for posting about this - I hope I didn't hi-jack your post