“Why do you adjust kids?”
This is a common question we get from individuals when they learn that people of all ages can get adjusted, even newborns. As parents we all want to have healthy, happy kids. We try to feed them the best foods, keep them busy with a variety of activities, have them take a multi-vitamin, and try our best to keep to a regular bedtime routine. One area many do not think about is regular chiropractic adjustments. This is similar to getting our teeth checked to keep them shiny and cavity free. Chiropractic care is a natural compliment to our parenting choices that help our children grow up healthy and strong. In various studies, most parents report their children experiencing a better state of health and wellbeing after receiving chiropractic care on a regular basis.(1) Chiropractic care is the best prevention to the ailments and injuries our children are exposed to regularly and the best time to start chiropractic care is early.
Even the most uncomplicated, normal birth can be stressful for baby and mom. Pulling, stretching, twisting the baby’s spine during delivery is known to cause nerve system stress. Mechanical devises such as forceps and vacuum contribute excessive stresses to the baby’s cranium, spine and nervous system. The pull force on the baby’s head and neck during the c-section may be considerably greater than a regular vaginal birth because the uterine muscles of the mother are not assisting the delivery process. Additionally, babies born in a c-section, do not experience the beneficial overlap of cranial bones that they would in a vaginal birth.
Milestones such as lifting one’s head, learning to sit, walking and falling, can all cause stress to the child’s spine and nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments are very gentle and specific and can alleviate the stress on the spine and improve issues such as ear infections, colic, constipation, and sleep disruptions. Dr. Melanie has advanced training and specializes in pre-post natal care and pediatrics. As a chiropractor we cannot diagnose and treat specific conditions, but we locate misalignments of the spine or subluxations. By removing nervous system irritation we can help the body function optimally and improve on symptoms the child may be experiencing.
Often children do not show signs of pain or discomfort, but it doesn’t mean they are not experiencing stress on their spine. Those stresses over time can build up to create signs and symptoms and eventually pain. By visiting your chiropractor regularly, your child can be evaluated and adjusted to relieve tension and stress that will hinder them from functioning and developing optimally. In our office we also will educate and teach parents ways they can help their children flourish at home and school with natural techniques.
Many of my young patients look forward to getting adjusted. It is not uncommon that they will bring their favorite action hero or stuffed animal to also get adjusted. You or your child may be nervous to get adjusted, but rest assured we never pressure you or your child to do something you are not comfortable with. During the first visit, we will review their health history and perform an exam. The exam will check their developmental milestones and determine what areas of the spine need attention. If an adjustment is needed we will adjust our technique and pressure to the children’s height, weight, and condition. Chiropractic care is a great way to help your children maximize health and help them to perform at their best.
[1] Ohm, J. (2005). Why should children have chiropractic care? ICPA. Retrieved from http://icpa4kids.org/Wellness-Articles/why-should-children-have-chiropractic-care/All-Pages.html
