October 10, 2023
As parents, we always strive to provide the best possible care for our children. That’s why, when it comes to their health, it’s important to explore all available options. One option that has gained popularity in recent years is chiropractic care for children.
Our experienced Clearwater chiropractors address common questions and concerns about pediatric chiropractic care here.
Do Chiropractors Treat Children?
Yes! Chiropractic care isn’t only for adults; it can also be highly beneficial for children. Chiropractors treat children from infancy through adolescence with the goal of promoting proper alignment of the spine and nervous system.
At What Age Should a Child See a Chiropractor?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Chiropractic treatment can benefit children of all ages. However, the specific conditions and symptoms treated usually depend on the child’s age:
- Infants: Colic, sleep problems, and difficulties with breastfeeding.
- Toddlers: Earaches, slow growth, developmental delays, and behavior problems.
- Elementary-age children: Asymmetric body or limb development, slow growth, developmental delays, behavior problems, anxiety, and hyperactivity.
- Teens: Asymmetric growth, extreme growing pains, headaches, depression, anxiety, and sports-related injuries.
What Are the Signs My Child Should See a Chiropractor?
While chiropractic care is helpful for most children, certain signs may indicate your child could particularly benefit from this type of treatment. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be worth visiting a pediatric chiropractor.
- Continual or recurring neck or back pain – Complaints of persistent neck or back pain, especially if recurring, may indicate the need for chiropractic care.
- Limited head or neck mobility – If your child has difficulty moving their head or neck freely, chiropractic care may help improve their mobility.
- Uneven shoulders – Uneven shoulders could be a sign of spinal misalignment that can be addressed through chiropractic adjustments.
- Compensating when standing or walking – If your child exhibits unusual compensatory movements when standing or walking, it may be a sign that chiropractic care could be beneficial.
- Irregular sleep patterns – Sleep disturbances are sometimes linked to underlying musculoskeletal issues that can be treated with chiropractic treatment.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Children?
Pediatric chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified professional. According to the American Chiropractic Association, no evidence suggests chiropractic care harms young patients.
In terms of effectiveness, many parents report significant improvements in their child’s health following chiropractic adjustments. Overall, it’s a non-invasive and drug-free approach that can offer an alternative or complementary option to traditional medical treatments.
What Are the Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic Care?
- Improved Sleep Quality
- Stronger Immune System
- Supports Digestive Health
- Effective Recovery From Injuries
- Boosts Brain Development
- Helps With Childhood Illnesses
- Promotes Post-Birth Recovery
- Increased Ability to Concentrate
Sleep is crucial for a child’s growth and development. However, many parents struggle with getting their kids to sleep well. Pediatric chiropractic care can help address this by identifying and correcting any misalignments that may be causing discomfort or pain.
Children’s developing immune systems make them more susceptible to illness. Chiropractic care helps immune function by promoting communication between the nervous and immune systems. As a result, kids who receive regular chiropractic treatment often experience fewer colds and illnesses.
Digestive problems can seriously affect a child’s well-being. Chiropractic care for children can help alleviate common issues such as constipation and reflux. Gentle spine and neck adjustments promote blood flow and reduce intestinal tension, promoting regular digestion.
Active kids often experience falls and accidents that can affect their spinal alignment. Regular chiropractic adjustments can fix misalignments, ensuring proper movement, balance, and strong muscles.
The brain develops a lot during childhood, and spinal alignment plays a crucial role. Pediatric chiropractic adjustments relieve pressure on the bones, joints, and spine, which helps improve blood flow and nutrient supply to the brain. Better oxygenation and nourishment can boost brain development in kids.
Allergies, ear infections, and asthma may improve with chiropractic treatment. Spine adjustments can support lymphatic drainage, reducing congestion and allergy symptoms.
Birth can be a traumatic experience for infants, causing physical stress and body misalignments. Gentle adjustments ease this stress and help babies recover after birth. It can also help with conditions like torticollis, colic, and underdeveloped digestion, helping babies grow and thrive.
Proper spine alignment is vital for kids’ mental focus, emotions, and behavior. Seeing a chiropractor helps keep their nervous system in balance, which allows them to concentrate. While chiropractic care can’t cure things like ADHD, it can improve symptoms and overall well-being.
Pediatric Chiropractor in Clearwater, FL
If you’re thinking about chiropractic care for your child in Clearwater, FL, Dr. Jere and Dr. Phillip at Family Life Chiropractic can help! Their gentle approach and expertise will ensure your child receives the best possible care.
Call 727-447-4647 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.
About the Author: With four decades of combined experience, Dr. Jere Jarrett and Dr. Philip Toft are highly educated and experienced chiropractors who serve Clearwater, FL, and the surrounding areas. They take a “whole-body” approach to chiropractic care, looking for the underlying cause of pain and discomfort instead of treating symptoms. Call 727-447-4647 to schedule an appointment.