Same as Adults, Kids Need Chiropractic Care
By Debra Rodzinak
Chiropractors treat patients of all ages, from newborns to the elderly, in the hopes of restoring proper alignment to the body and alleviating pain. Children, like adults, can sustain injuries to their spines from playing sports, automobile accidents, and birth defects. Neck pain, stiffness, soreness, and discomfort to the back are common symptoms that chiropractors treat in children.
A pediatric chiropractor is trained to take their chiropractic knowledge and change it in a way that will fit the needs of younger patients. The treatments that are provided to these small bodies is very gentle in delivery.
The Need for Children’s Chiropractic Care
During birth, a baby may experience trauma in the birth canal or at delivery that affects their tiny body. This might not be noticed until a few years later when the child begins to develop. Childhood activities like sports, bike riding, walking, or running may cause spinal problems or add to an already existing problem.
Minor injuries can become problematic if the trauma causes damage to other body parts such as the head, spine, or pelvis. Pediatric chiropractors are trained to look for and identify these problem areas.
Many children also have “growing pains” which can be a sign of a bigger health problem. Providing children with regular chiropractic visits can stave off problems that crop up during adulthood.
Conditions a Chiropractor May Treat in Children
Treating back or neck pain and stiffness or other spine-related issues are common in chiropractic care for children. Even newborns can benefit from a chiropractic check of the spine.
Other conditions that chiropractors can help with in dealing with childhood conditions include:
- Asthma
- Bedwetting
- Colic
- Ear Infections
- Musculoskeletal Conditions
- Nursing Difficulties
Chiropractic Treatments for Children
When chiropractors are evaluating children, as with most patients, they want to use a drug-free approach to the treatment given to children. A thorough physical exam along with a diagnosis is obtained before treatment is given. Depending on the age of the child, a gentle approach is used by the chiropractor. Much of the chiropractic treatment given to children is in the form of preventative care. For example, a regular chiropractor visit would help a child ensure that their spine continues to stay healthy during their formative years.
Pain, discomfort, and misalignment comes to the spines of all ages. If your child is suffering with any spinal issue or you just want to ensure that your child’s spine continues to grow and develop correctly, head over to The Joint today for an examination by one of our chiropractors. Don’t worry about the hassle of insurance or appointment times. Just drop by The Joint for a visit!
