The Baby and The Chiropractor: What’s Up, Doc?

Many spinal issues seen in adults begin as early as birth leading more and more parents to seek chiropractic care for their children. Many stresses are caused by the birthing process with possible cranial and spinal misalignment leading to an assault or irritation on the nervous system. According to the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (I.C.P.A.),

irritation to the nerve system can be the cause of many new born health complaints including colic, breathing problems, nursing difficulties, sleep disturbances, allergic reactions and chronic infections.

Due to the “trauma” of birth, many parents have their newborns checked by a chiropractic physician almost immediately. As the child develops, passing mile stones like holding up his/her head, sitting up unaided, crawling, standing (…falling), and walking, can cause small spinal misalignments (subluxations) and nerve irritations that add up over time. While not always the case, left untreated this can lead to more serious issues as they grow.

As I write this article, I can’t help but think of my niece, who just turned one and is on the verge of walking. She takes one or two steps and falls right on her little baby butt. I thank her loving parents who graciously allow me the opportunity to help take care of this little one with chiropractic adjustments. With regular pediatric care and chiropractic evaluations I know she is getting the best start in life.

A common reason parents seek alternative care for their child is the resolution of a specific symptom or condition: allergies, asthma, colic, ear infections and headaches are just a few we see in our clinic.

Trauma is another common reasons for parents to seek chiropractic care for their child. Falling off a bicycle, a sports injury or a simple bump on the head can cause spinal or extremity misalignments which may or may not result in immediate pain. Regular chiropractic checkups can help identify potential subluxations that when treated early may avoid health issues later in life.

The nerve system (brain, spinal cord and miles of nerves), control and coordinate all aspects of the human body: circulatory, digestive, eliminative, immune, hormonal, musculoskeletal, and respiratory systems. Any aspect of health can be impaired by nerve interference caused by spinal or extremity “subluxations.” Chiropractic care, including adjustments, can help restore proper joint motion and nerve function to allow the body to better express a greater state of well-being.

Now that we’ve got that out of the way, let’s get into the next. most popular questions about babies and chiropractic care: How young is too young? And how safe is it? Stay tuned!