The Many Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Children
When I was pregnant with my son, I saw a specialist prenatal chiropractor once a week. I managed to get through my entire full-term pregnancy without even a hint of back pain or strain; my chiropractor kept me feeling wonderful. But one thing he said when I was pregnant surprised me - he suggested that when I had my baby, I should bring him in to the clinic for his first adjustment.
He explained that infants in the womb can develop alignment problems called subluxations in their spine, which can be worsened during the passage through the birth canal. He told me he recommended chiropractic care for newborns alongside regular appointments with a pediatrician.
Moreover, he described numerous problems that could be cured with chiropractic treatment, including colic, difficulty nursing, sleep problems, stomach pain, and respiratory problems. I was sold - and my baby had his first chiropractic treatment at one week old. I like to think that’s why he was such an “easy baby,” always happy and rarely crying.
For babies with a subluxation, gross motor skills like crawling and walking and even holding up the head can be difficult. Language, cognitive and social skills do not develop according to normal timelines in infants and toddlers with spinal problems. And because spinal health is crucial for the function of other organs, it’s even more important to align your newborn’s spine.
Chiropractic treatment for infants is safe, gentle and painless. The chiropractor only applies the amount of finger pressure to the back as you might if you were testing a fruit for ripeness. As children grow up, they face more risks for subluxations. Playtime, sleeping in a bad position, or falling off a bicycle can all lead to spinal problems. Add sports, dance and gymnastics classes to the mix and there are plenty of chance for young children to throw out their spines.
It’s important to be proactive and be aware of the signs that your child may have a subluxation. These include:
1. When lying down, one leg is longer than the other
2. When standing, one of the hips or shoulders is higher than the other
3. The head tilts to one side
4. Uneven wear on the heels of the shoes
5. Shoulders and hips twist in opposite directions
Instead of waiting for an injury, you should book your child in for a chiropractic appointment at least once every few months. This will avoid any potential developmental delays or pain as a result of subluxations.
