Babies and Children’s Chiropractic Care
Youngsters have spines too! One thing often overlooked by parents is the various traumas (large and small) that babies and children go through. The trouble is – they often ‘bounce’ and get away with it at the time. It’s only later down the line that you realise the effects such traumas can have on their development.
A chiropractor for babies is often helpful as they undergo enormous amounts of stress during delivery (mostly in their neck), and in some cases, this may lead to a number of problems such as difficulty feeding, unexplained crying (colic) and neurological irritation and pain.
Specialist Newborn Chiropractic Care
At Relief Chiropractic Health Clinic, we offer specialised children’s chiropractic care, providing gentle and non-invasive therapy to correct underlying issues before they become ingrained during development. Our chiropractor care for children supports a pain-free and successful childhood, ensuring your child’s spine and nervous system develop healthily for overall well-being.
Pediatric Chiropractor
It may be surprising to think that a child might need chiropractic care. Children rarely complain of chronic pain like adults do, and they seem remarkably resilient, quickly recovering from injuries. However, children’s bodies undergo significant stress during development, necessitating proper maintenance for optimal health. If you’d like to understand more about chiropractic care for children, our guide explains how treatment for babies and children differs from chiropractic care for adults.
Stress and trauma to the spine often begin with the birthing process. An infant’s spine can easily become misaligned due to the intense pressures of both natural and Cesarean births. Infants cannot communicate their pain effectively, making it hard to detect issues. During infancy, they may sleep in awkward positions and occasionally take falls. As they grow into toddlers, they experience strains, twists, and falls while learning to crawl and walk. Although they are resilient, these impacts can lead to movement patterns that gradually misalign their bones. This is why newborn chiropractic care may be necessary.
As children grow, they can develop poor posture from sitting in front of computers or TVs, which negatively affects their spines. Playing contact sports, wearing heavy backpacks incorrectly, and prolonged sitting at desks can also cause spinal issues. Teenagers face additional stress from increased responsibilities.
Throughout development, numerous factors can lead to spinal misalignment, affecting overall nervous system function and development. Children are frequently carried and lifted through the torso, and as they start crawling and walking, their spines develop the characteristic curves seen in older children and adults. Falls, bumps, and bruises further contribute to potential misalignments, requiring their bodies to compensate for these stresses.
Children’s Chiropractic Care
Baby Chiropractor (0-3)
Should babies go to chiropractors? New born chiropractic care is possible any time from birth. I myself adjusted my daughter about 15 minutes after she was born. It’s important to note that at this stage, chiropractic adjustments are incredibly gentle. It’s more like a gentle squeeze or stretch of the soft tissues around the base of the skull or sacrum. The bones are not ‘ossified’ and are mostly cartilage rather than fully formed bone. The restrictions at this early stage have not been there for long, and so they often clear up very quickly and with minimal effort. A baby chiropractor will often work on a symptomatic basis with babies, taking each week as it comes and referring on if necessary.
Infant chiropractor care (3-11)
The good news is that we have found children of this age respond very well to infant chiropractic care. Adjustments on children are similar in style, but much gentler than in adults, because their joints don’t have the same level of restriction and are still in the developmental stages. Unlike an adult where we will find restrictions throughout the spine, children often present with 1-2 obvious problems which are limiting their potential and causing them dis-ease. We will generally notice some improvements in children of this age within 4 visits, making it much easier to gauge the progress of infant chiropractic care than in adults.
Childrens chiropractor care (12-18)
Chiropractic care for children can be crucial at this stage in development. Children often have very sudden growth spurts, as well as a higher likelihood of injury from sports. This presents a unique challenge to the bones and muscles, forcing them to adapt quickly as things change. Knee and shoulder pain as well as headaches are possible for children at this stage – all of which can be debilitating to their sports or academic performance. This is also the time that some spinal problems like scoliosis (spinal curves) may manifest. If you suspect any of these conditions, simply ask us and we will be happy to arrange either a phone call, or a consultation and examination with our chiropractor for children.
Children’s Massage Therapy
Children’s Massage Therapy can be highly effective, tailored to the specific reasons for their appointment. We cater to most ages for massage therapy, ensuring a gentle and appropriate approach. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. For more information on the benefits and techniques of massage for children, please visit our Massage Therapy pages to learn more about how we can support your child’s health and well-being.
Book a visit to our Cambridge Chiropractor
If you live in or near Cambridge and your child has pain or other symptoms, or they want to improve the function of their body, chiropractic care is a safe and very effective solution. If you’d like to learn more about children’s chiropractic care or you’re looking for an infant chiropractor, you can book a consultation or a FREE telephone call, where the process of care given by the infant chiropractor will be explained fully. There is no obligation to continue with the visits.
Learn more about our Chiropractor rates, or read our blog on insurance claims for chiropractic care, where it guides you through the process.
To book, call us on 01223 459240, book online, or contact us.
Children’s Chiropractic Care FAQ’s
Should babies go to chiropractors?
Consulting a chiropractor for babies can be beneficial, especially for issues like colic or developmental concerns. However, it’s crucial to ensure the chiropractor is experienced in pediatric care. Always discuss any treatment with your pediatrician first, before visiting a baby chiropractor, to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your child’s specific needs.
What is a pediatric chiropractor?
A pediatric chiropractor specialises in children’s chiropractic care, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal issues in infants, children, and adolescents. They use gentle, non-invasive techniques to ensure proper spinal alignment and support healthy development, addressing issues like poor posture, injuries, and developmental stress.
Is a chiropractor good for baby colics?
A baby chiropractor can be beneficial for colic by using gentle, non-invasive techniques to improve spinal alignment and reduce nervous system stress. This can help alleviate discomfort and improve digestive function, potentially easing colic symptoms. Always consult a pediatric chiropractor experienced in treating infants for the best care.
Are chiropractors dangerous for babies?
Chiropractors are generally safe for babies when they are trained in pediatric care and use gentle, appropriate techniques. It is crucial to choose a qualified chiropractor for babies who understands the unique needs of infants.
Can a chiropractor help with infant torticollis?
Yes, a chiropractor can help with infant torticollis by using gentle, non-invasive techniques to improve neck mobility and alignment. Pediatric chiropractors focus on easing muscle tension and enhancing range of motion, which can alleviate the symptoms of torticollis and support normal development.
Can chiropractic help newborn gas?
Yes, newborn chiropractic care can help newborns with gas by improving spinal alignment and reducing nervous system stress, which may enhance digestive function. Gentle, specialised techniques used by pediatric chiropractors can alleviate discomfort and promote better gas passage. Always consult a pediatric chiropractor for safe and appropriate care for your newborn.