Unlocking Wellness: The Essential Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic Care for Your Child

Understanding Pediatric Chiropractic Care

Pediatric chiropractic care is a specialized branch of chiropractic medicine focusing on the health and well-being of children from infancy through adolescence. This form of care involves gentle manipulations and adjustments tailored to the delicate and developing bodies of young patients. Unlike adult chiropractic treatments, pediatric chiropractic care takes into account the unique anatomical and physiological characteristics of children, ensuring that every adjustment is safe and beneficial.

The primary goal of pediatric chiropractic care is to promote optimal spinal health and nervous system function. The spine houses the central nervous system, which controls and coordinates nearly every function in the body. By ensuring proper alignment and movement of the spinal vertebrae, pediatric chiropractors help to alleviate any interference or pressure on the nerves, supporting overall health and wellness. This holistic approach not only addresses immediate issues but also lays a foundation for long-term health.

Parents seeking pediatric chiropractic care for their children often do so to address various concerns, including colic, ear infections, sleep disturbances, and behavioral issues. However, even children without specific health complaints can benefit from regular chiropractic visits. Routine adjustments can help maintain proper spinal alignment, enhance the immune system, and support the body's natural ability to heal and self-regulate, leading to overall improved health and well-being.

Common Misconceptions About Chiropractic Treatment for Children

Despite the growing acceptance of pediatric chiropractic care, there are still many misconceptions and myths that surround this practice. One common misconception is that chiropractic adjustments are too forceful for young children. In reality, pediatric chiropractors use very gentle, specific techniques appropriate for a child's age, size, and developmental stage. These adjustments are often as light as the touch of a finger and are designed to be safe and comfortable for even the youngest patients.

Another myth is that chiropractic care is only for treating back pain. While it is true that chiropractors specialize in spinal health, the benefits of chiropractic care extend far beyond the spine. The nervous system, which is housed within the spine, plays a critical role in the body's overall function. By ensuring that the spine is properly aligned, chiropractic care can positively impact a child's digestive health, respiratory function, and even their emotional well-being. It is a holistic approach that addresses the root causes of health issues rather than just the symptoms.

Some parents may also worry about the qualifications and training of pediatric chiropractors. It is important to understand that chiropractors undergo extensive education and training, including specialized courses in pediatric care. They are well-versed in the anatomy, physiology, and developmental needs of children. Additionally, reputable pediatric chiropractors are often members of professional organizations that require adherence to stringent ethical and practice standards, ensuring that your child receives the highest quality of care.

The Science Behind Pediatric Chiropractic Care

The science behind pediatric chiropractic care is rooted in the understanding of the relationship between the spine and the nervous system. The nervous system is the body's master control system, responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Any interference or misalignment in the spine can disrupt this communication, leading to various health issues. Pediatric chiropractic care aims to remove these interferences, allowing the body to function optimally.

Research has shown that spinal misalignments, also known as subluxations, can occur from birth. The birthing process, while natural, can be physically demanding on both the mother and the infant. The pressure exerted during delivery can cause subtle misalignments in the infant's spine, which, if left unaddressed, can lead to health problems later in life. Pediatric chiropractors use gentle techniques to correct these misalignments, promoting proper development and preventing future issues.

Moreover, studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of chiropractic care in improving various pediatric health conditions. For example, research has indicated that chiropractic adjustments can reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections in children by improving Eustachian tube function and reducing fluid buildup. Other studies have shown that chiropractic care can enhance immune function, improve sleep patterns, and even aid in the management of behavioral disorders such as ADHD. These findings underscore the importance of a well-aligned spine and a properly functioning nervous system in maintaining overall health and wellness.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Infants and Toddlers

Infants and toddlers can experience a range of health benefits from chiropractic care, even in their earliest stages of development. One of the most significant advantages is the alleviation of colic symptoms. Colic, characterized by excessive crying and fussiness in otherwise healthy infants, can be distressing for both the baby and the parents. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce colic by addressing spinal misalignments that may be causing discomfort and digestive issues, leading to a calmer and happier baby.

Another common issue in infants is difficulty with breastfeeding. Proper spinal alignment is crucial for the coordination of sucking, swallowing, and breathing during feeding. Misalignments in the cervical spine, often resulting from the birth process, can hinder an infant's ability to latch and feed effectively. Chiropractic care can correct these misalignments, improving breastfeeding success and ensuring that the baby receives adequate nutrition for healthy growth and development.

For toddlers, chiropractic care can support their rapidly developing bodies and help prevent injuries during their active exploration and play. Toddlers are prone to falls and tumbles as they learn to walk and navigate their environment. Regular chiropractic adjustments can help maintain proper alignment, enhance balance and coordination, and reduce the risk of injuries. Additionally, chiropractic care can support a toddler's immune system, helping them stay healthy and resilient against common childhood illnesses.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Healthy Growth and Development

The growth and development of a child are dynamic processes that require proper support and care. Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in ensuring that these processes occur smoothly and efficiently. One of the key ways chiropractic care supports healthy growth is by promoting proper spinal alignment. The spine is the central structure around which the body develops, and any misalignments can affect posture, balance, and overall physical development. Regular chiropractic adjustments help maintain proper alignment, allowing the body to grow and develop without interference.

In addition to physical development, chiropractic care also supports the development of the nervous system. The nervous system controls and coordinates all bodily functions, including growth and development. By ensuring that the spine is properly aligned and free of subluxations, chiropractic care promotes optimal nervous system function. This, in turn, supports the body's natural ability to grow, heal, and adapt to the demands of development.

Furthermore, chiropractic care can enhance a child's overall well-being by addressing common developmental issues such as poor posture, scoliosis, and growing pains. Poor posture, often resulting from prolonged sitting and screen time, can lead to musculoskeletal imbalances and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments can correct these imbalances, improving posture and preventing future problems. Scoliosis, a condition characterized by an abnormal curvature of the spine, can also be managed with chiropractic care. Early detection and treatment can prevent the progression of scoliosis and reduce the need for more invasive interventions. Growing pains, which are common during periods of rapid growth, can be alleviated with chiropractic adjustments that reduce tension and improve joint function.

Addressing Common Childhood Health Issues with Chiropractic Treatment

Chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to addressing a wide range of common childhood health issues. Ear infections, for example, are a prevalent concern among young children. These infections often result from fluid buildup in the middle ear, which can be exacerbated by misalignments in the upper cervical spine. Chiropractic adjustments can help improve drainage and reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections, providing a natural and non-invasive alternative to antibiotics and other treatments.

Digestive issues are another common concern that can be effectively addressed with chiropractic care. Conditions such as constipation, reflux, and colic can be related to nerve interference and spinal misalignments. By restoring proper alignment and nerve function, chiropractic adjustments can improve digestive health and alleviate discomfort. This holistic approach can be particularly beneficial for children with sensitive digestive systems or those who have not responded well to conventional treatments.

Respiratory issues, including asthma and allergies, can also be managed with chiropractic care. The nervous system plays a critical role in regulating the respiratory system, and any interference in the spine can impact breathing and immune function. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce this interference, improving respiratory health and reducing the severity of asthma and allergy symptoms. This approach not only addresses the symptoms but also supports the body's natural ability to heal and maintain optimal health.

The Role of Chiropractic Care in Enhancing Athletic Performance in Children

As children grow and become more active, many participate in sports and other physical activities. While these activities are beneficial for physical and mental development, they also increase the risk of injuries and musculoskeletal imbalances. Chiropractic care can play a significant role in enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries in young athletes. By ensuring proper spinal alignment and joint function, chiropractic adjustments help improve flexibility, balance, and coordination, all of which are essential for athletic performance.

In addition to injury prevention, chiropractic care can also aid in the recovery process for young athletes who have sustained injuries. Whether it's a sprained ankle, a strained muscle, or a more serious injury, chiropractic adjustments can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and speed up the healing process. Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper function to the affected area, promoting natural healing and reducing the reliance on medications or invasive procedures.

Moreover, chiropractic care can support overall physical performance by optimizing nervous system function. The nervous system controls muscle function, coordination, and reaction time, all of which are critical for athletic performance. By maintaining proper spinal alignment and reducing nerve interference, chiropractic adjustments can enhance these functions, helping young athletes perform at their best. This holistic approach not only supports physical health but also contributes to mental focus and resilience, which are key components of athletic success.

Choosing the Right Pediatric Chiropractor for Your Child

Selecting the right pediatric chiropractor is a crucial step in ensuring that your child receives the best possible care. When looking for a pediatric chiropractor, it's important to consider their qualifications, experience, and approach to care. A qualified pediatric chiropractor should have specialized training in pediatric care, which includes understanding the unique needs and developmental stages of children. Look for chiropractors who are members of professional organizations such as the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), as this indicates a commitment to high standards of practice and ongoing education. Credentials such as CACCP after their name also indicate that they have done extensive training in pediatric techniques and education. You can visit ICPA4kids.org to search for a chiropractor in your area.

Experience is another important factor to consider. A chiropractor with a proven track record of successfully treating children can provide reassurance that your child is in capable hands. Don't hesitate to ask for references or read reviews from other parents who have sought care for their children. Personal recommendations and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the chiropractor's expertise and approach to treatment.

It's also essential to consider the chiropractor's approach to care and their ability to communicate effectively with both you and your child. A good pediatric chiropractor should take the time to listen to your concerns, explain the treatment plan, and answer any questions you may have. They should also be gentle and patient with your child, creating a positive and comfortable experience. Visiting the chiropractor's office and observing their interactions with other pediatric patients can help you assess their approach and determine if they are the right fit for your family.

What to Expect During Your Child's First Chiropractic Visit

The first chiropractic visit can be an exciting and reassuring experience for both you and your child. During this initial visit, the chiropractor will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your child's health history, current concerns, and overall well-being. This assessment typically includes a detailed discussion with you, the parent, to gather information about your child's birth, medical history, lifestyle, and any specific issues you are seeking to address.

Following the discussion, the chiropractor will perform a physical examination of your child. This examination is gentle and non-invasive, designed to assess the spine, posture, and overall alignment. The chiropractor may use specialized techniques and tools to evaluate your child's musculoskeletal and nervous system health. This comprehensive assessment helps the chiropractor identify any areas of concern and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child's needs.

Once the assessment is complete, the chiropractor will explain their findings and discuss the recommended treatment plan with you. They will outline the goals of the treatment, the techniques that will be used, and the expected outcomes. The chiropractor will also address any questions or concerns you may have, ensuring that you feel informed and confident in the care your child will receive. Depending on the findings and your child's comfort level, the first adjustment may be performed during this visit. The adjustment is typically very gentle and carefully explained to both you and your child to ensure a positive experience.

Conclusion: Embracing Wellness Through Chiropractic Care for Kids

In the journey of raising healthy and happy children, pediatric chiropractic care emerges as a valuable resource for promoting overall wellness. By addressing spinal alignment and nervous system function, chiropractic care supports physical, emotional, and developmental health in children. From alleviating common issues like colic and ear infections in infants to enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries in young athletes, the benefits of chiropractic care are extensive and profound.

Parents who choose chiropractic care for their children are investing in a holistic approach that prioritizes natural healing, prevention, and long-term health. The gentle, non-invasive techniques used in pediatric chiropractic care ensure that children receive safe and effective treatment tailored to their unique needs. By maintaining proper spinal alignment and supporting optimal nervous system function, chiropractic care helps children thrive, promoting resilience, balance, and vitality.

As you consider the best ways to support your child's health and well-being, exploring pediatric chiropractic care can provide valuable insights and options. By choosing a qualified and experienced pediatric chiropractor, you can ensure that your child receives the highest quality of care. Embracing chiropractic care as part of your child's wellness routine can unlock their full potential, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future. Through the gentle touch of a skilled chiropractor, your child can experience the essential benefits of chiropractic care, fostering a lifetime of wellness and vitality.

Picking Your Prenatal Team

By Dr. Nikki

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Pregnancy is an absolutely life-altering season of life. Having recently experienced it myself, I find myself more passionate than ever about this experience in life. When a woman finds out she’s expecting, it is a very exciting time, it also is an occasion where she and her family will be faced with numerous decisions!

Most of us have heard the phrase “It takes a village to raise a child” and it’s absolutely true… starting while they’re still in the womb! One of the most important decisions a woman faces in pregnancy is the village of people who will be supporting her throughout pregnancy and birth. While this prenatal team will look different for each individual woman, there are three crucial components that I think should be considered.

The first member of the prenatal team is a midwife or OBGYN. While both professionals deliver your baby, the environment and approach will vary greatly! I discuss some of these differences in the video below. There’s no right or wrong decision, it just depends on what each individual woman needs and feels comfortable with.

The next member of the prenatal team is a doula. I’m lucky enough to work with a number of doulas, with all different personalities and styles. If a woman knows that she needs someone to push her, there’s a doula for her! If a woman knows that she needs to be nurtured and mothered, there’s a doula for her too!

The third member of the team is the prenatal chiropractor. Did you know that there’s a group of us chiropractors who actually specialize in chiropractic care during pregnancy? We have completed additional training and certification through the ICPA in a technique called the Webster method and oftentimes have the credentials FICPA or CACCP after our name. Chiropractic care is extremely helpful in maintaining proper function of the spine and nervous system throughout all stages of pregnancy. A woman’s body goes through a great deal of changes and it’s important that her body is able to adapt to these different stressors appropriately!  Just a few of the benefits that research has shown include decreased back pain during pregnancy, decreased labor time, and decreased postnatal pain. 

With all of these professionals, we are dealing with a human to human interaction. I mention this to say that it’s really important that a woman jives and feels comfortable with the different people who she’s turning to for her prenatal care and advice. Tension, conflict, or a lack of trust can result in emotional stress as well as physical stress, and ain’t nobody got time for that, especially a hormonal pregnant woman! Asking for recommendations from friends and family members or looking for professionals who have great online reviews is a great place to start. From there, interviewing a few different people ensures that it’s a great fit for momma-to-be and her family!

If you’re looking for recommendations for members of your prenatal team, please don’t hesitate to ask! I would love to help you find your ideal team.

Why Microbes Are Our Friends

We are currently living in a world where bacteria and microorganisms tend to be associated with fear, sickness and even death. While these things may all be true on occasion, in reality they tend to be the exception, not the rule. What if I told you that we actually NEED bacteria, like our lives depend on it? While you gradually start unfurrowing your brow, let me explain. Researchers have found that pretty much every surface of our body contains microorganisms, to the point that our human cells are actually outnumbered 10:1! This prolific population of bacteria and microorganisms are known as our microbiome and today I want to share three reasons why they are actually our friends. 

1) Bacteria allows us to digest and absorb nutrients from the food we eat.

When we consume a food, it’s actually the bacteria in our stomach and intestines that break those proteins, fats and carbohydrates into nutrients that our body is then able to use. The same goes for vitamins and anti-inflammatories found in the foods we eat. As humans, we don’t have all of the enzymes necessary to break these foods down, but fortunately these friendly microorganisms do! [1]

This is why supplements such as pre-biotics, probiotics and digestive enzymes provide so much relief when our gut flora is out of balance. 

2) Bacteria help regulate our immune systems.

While we are babies in the womb, we have a naive immune system and are therefore dependent on our mother’s antibodies to protect us from disease. The immune cells we are born with must be educated in order to protect us from the outside world and it is bacteria that does the teaching! When a baby is born vaginally, they receive their first inoculation of bacteria as they travel through the birth canal and these bacteria are what begin to shape the makeup of a baby’s gut flora. Studies have shown that babies born via c-section are at higher risk for certain diseases and sickness because they haven’t received this initial mega-dose of bacteria. In addition to the birth process, breastfeeding also helps introduce bacteria into the baby’s system. These initial colonizing bacteria have come to be known as the “pioneer microbiome” and it is responsible for educating the developing immune system and provides a favorable environment for the colonization of other microbiomes. [2]

Since it’s National Breastfeeding Month I’ll share one of the most fascinating facts regarding breastfeeding and bacteria. When a baby latches to the mother’s breast to nurse, if a pathogenic bacteria in the baby’s mouth comes in contact with the mother’s areola then the mother’s areola signals her body to produce antibodies for whatever pathogen was detected! These antibodies are then delivered to the baby in the breastmilk! [3] Not only is this mother nature’s antibiotic but it is naturally strengthening and developing baby’s immune system. 

Every day we are exposed to potentially harmful pathogens, additives, non-harmful bacteria and allergens in the environment. It is vital that our bodies are able to determine when to react and when to tolerate these “intruders” or else we would have a severe response or illness to every new interaction. The diverse population of microorganisms that develops in the gut early on is what teaches our immune system that not everything is bad. [4]

3) Microbes keep us healthy.

Microbes maintain a sterile mucus layer between the intestinal cells and the bacteria-rich gut, creating a bacteria-free zone that protects us from continuous immune system activation and inflammation. The microbiome lining our digestive tract also prevents pathogenic microorganisms from attaching to the intestine or colon walls. [2]

In higher-income countries there has been an exponential rise in the use of antibiotics, number of non-emergent c-sections, dietary changes, and excessive cleaning and sterilization. While these procedures may kill pathogenic microorganisms, they also kill the good bacteria that our body is dependent on! With this, we are seeing an increase in auto-immune and inflammatory diseases. The top three common auto-immune conditions we are seeing in the United States include Crohn’s, Type 1 Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis. 

Clearly these friendly microbes are important, so it is vital that we are intentional in keeping them healthy and balanced. Here are some simple tips to do just that:

• Wash your hands with soap and water whenever possible. While hand-sanitizer is convenient and quick, most of them kill all bacteria rather than just the bad. In addition to it’s non-selective destruction, many hand-sanitizers have been found to contain toxic ingredients such as methanol and 1-propanol. [5]

• Eat foods that are rich in prebiotics and probiotics. A few common prebiotic-loaded foods include garlic, onion, leeks, asparagus, and bananas. Some common probiotic-loaded foods include kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha, and yogurt.

• Avoid unnecessary antibiotics. There is a time and a place for antibiotics, but if you’re being prescribed an antibiotic for an illness that is typically caused by a virus (think flu) then you might want to think twice or at least get a second opinion. In the event that an antibiotic is necessary, be sure to load up on a probiotic during and after! 

If you have further questions about supporting your microbiome or are needing recommendations for probiotic or prebiotic supplements, be sure to reach out! Renew & Restore Wellness is more than just a chiropractic office, we are here to support your overall health and well-being! 

Resources

1. June 13, 2012. NIH Human Microbiome Project defines normal bacterial makeup of the body. (Retrieved August 12, 2020). https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-human-microbiome-project-defines-normal-bacterial-makeup-body

2. March, 2015. Why is initial bacterial colonization of the intestine important to the infant’s and child’s health? (Retrieved August 12, 2020). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4340742/

3. January 28, 2020. Contributions to human breast milk microbiome and enteromammary transfer of Bifidobacterium breve. (Retrieved August 12, 2020). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6986747/

4. March 27, 2014. Role of the Microbiota in Immunity and inflammation. (Retrieved August 12, 2020). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4056765/

5. August 13, 2020. FDA Warns of New Hand Sanitizer Ingredient as List of Dangerous Products Grows. (Retrieved August 13, 2020). https://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/health/fda-warns-of-new-hand-sanitizer-ingredient-as-list-of-dangerous-products-grows/2318431/

5 Unexpected Reasons to See a Chiropractor

What are the most common causes for calling a chiropractor? If you guessed an aching back or stiff neck, you’re spot on! And it makes sense. 80 percent of us are expected to have back pain at least once in our lives.[1] Whether it’s poor posture, injury, or aging, neck pain is also a popular reason to go.

At the core, chiropractors treat problems related to the musculoskeletal system.[2] This involves the skeleton, cartilage, tendons, joints, ligaments, muscles, and other connective tissue. Their education and practice also directly impacts the nervous system. Chiropractors look at the interconnectedness of the body, and believe in the body’s ability to heal itself. So, they treat without turning to painkillers or surgery.

But did you know that chiropractors do so much more? In today’s blog, we’ll explore five surprising ways that chiropractors help you.

1. Chiropractors Offer More Than Adjustments

During an initial visit, your chiropractor will perform an intake, exam, treatment, and follow-through plan. What some may not know is that treatment can extend beyond only an adjustment.

Chiropractors are trained to take a holistic approach to your health. This means they may offer you suggestions to practice outside the walls of their office. This can include rehab exercises, ergonomic advice, and nutritional and dietary counseling.

A chiropractor understands that the body and its systems are interconnected. They are concerned about your well-being and will design treatments to improve it.

2. Chiropractors Can Lessen Stress and Anxiety

You know the feeling — the low energy, headaches, or insomnia. That churning feeling in your stomach or the panic tightening in your chest. Stress or anxiety is something most of us will have in our day-to-day lives.

If you feel this way, you aren’t alone:

• 3 out of 4 Americans have reported at least one stress symptom within the last month.[3]

• 55 percent report experiencing stress throughout a lot of the day.[4]

• Almost half claim to lay awake at night.[5]

And if you’re young, you aren’t exempt. Gen Z (those who are 15-21 years old) are more likely than other generations to report fair or poor mental health.[6]

But can a chiropractor really help with stress or anxiety? Yes. They can.

Chiropractors focus on a mind-body approach —  they adjust the physical also to help improve the mental.[7]

Often, stress and anxiety will manifest in a variety of ways. Whether it’s muscle tension, fatigue, headaches, or an inability to relax, the body takes a hit. Chiropractors are trained to help bring relief to many of these symptoms. Their care is all-natural, which means no medicinal side effects. 

Studies also show that after being adjusted, the body releases positive hormones. The three that get released are neurotensin, oxytocin, and cortisol.[8] These help to neutralize stress-induced pain, boost feelings of social bonding, and block pain caused by inflammation.

Stress and anxiety can be heavy burdens to bear. While chiropractic care can help, please don’t stop or change your medication without talking to a trusted professional. If someone you know has mental health concerns, it’s important to seek help from a qualified care provider.

3. Chiropractors Help Migraines and Tension Headaches

Headaches are always an uninvited guest. And they’re unfortunately common. 9 out of 10 Americans suffer from having headaches at some point in their lives.[9] While for some, having a headache may be rare, but for many others, it’s a real and frequent problem.

The treatment for migraines and headaches varies. Some will take a pill while others may try and sleep it off. Some prefer to avoid daily medication and will instead opt for alternative treatments.[10]

How can a chiropractor help your migraine?

Chiropractors are well-versed in helping headaches. In fact, 87.2 percent of chiropractors help patients who suffer from them.[11]

A chiropractor performs adjustments to improve your spinal function and reduce the stress on your system. They can also give advice on:

• Posture

• Ergonomics

• Relaxation techniques

• Stretching

• Low-impact exercises

• Staying hydrated

• Avoiding teeth-clenching[12]

The result? When it comes to preventing migraines, chiropractic techniques may be one of the few ways that’s as useful as taking medications.[13]

A fun fact: Dr. Nikki became a chiropractor because of her own journey with migraines. Into her early 20s, Dr. Nikki suffered from debilitating headaches. Chiropractic care and lifestyle changes helped her become migraine-free. This transformation inspired her to become a chiropractor, so she could help others experience that same freedom!

4. Chiropractors Help During Pregnancy

The female body goes through impressive changes during pregnancy — and with that can come pain or discomfort. 70 percent of pregnant women claim to have back pain.[14] 1 in 3 report hip pain.[15] And as the body starts to prepare for labor and delivery, the joints and ligaments will begin to move around and can shift out of alignment.

Chiropractors can provide gentle adjustments to align and stabilize the body. They can also offer recommendations on stretches and exercises to help bring relief.

Be sure and check out our “Why Every Expecting Mom Needs to See a Chiropractor” blog for more details on how prenatal chiropractic care can help.

5. Chiropractors Benefit the Family — Including Children

Children make up a growing and essential part of our society. Currently, about 3 percent of children have been seen by a doctor of chiropractic — and those numbers are rising.[16] Many are realizing the health benefits of chiropractic care on kids.

How can chiropractic care benefit children? 

Children tend to be quite active and can experience many types of falls or blows. For kids in sports, this is especially true. Injuries can cause several symptoms, such as back or neck pain, soreness, or general discomfort.[17] One benefit of chiropractic care is that it’s skilled and individualized. This means that your chiropractor is trained to adapt to the needs of your child (i.e., they will be gentle).

Children aren’t the only ones to benefit. The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics recently published a study about chiropractic care with mothers and infants. In it, mothers reported that they and their infants benefited after receiving chiropractic care.[18] Specifically, for their infants, mothers noted improvements in feeding problems, excessive crying, and sleep issues (to name a few).

The medical community continues to discuss the benefits of children receiving chiropractic care. Like choosing a pediatrician, selecting a chiropractor requires research, conversation, and discernment. Whether you're pregnant or have a child, make sure the chiropractor you choose is well-qualified.

There are a number of ways to do this:

• Reach out. The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) is a leading organization that provides chiropractic training and certification in pregnancy and pediatric care. They can help you find an ICPA Chiropractor to meet you and your children’s needs best.

• Become more knowledgeable. Follow the ICPA, American Chiropractic Association (ACA), and ACA Pediatrics Council social media. Continue to read and stay up on the latest research.

• Call our office. Dr. Nikki is a certified member of the ICPA and has received additional credentials through the Academy Council of Chiropractic Pediatrics. She’d be happy to talk with you and answer any questions you have.

Consider the Natural Approach

There are a variety of reasons to go to a chiropractor. Maybe you’re tired of taking pills. Or feeling stressed. Or perhaps you’re looking for alternative ways to improve you and your family’s well-being. Chiropractic care can help. 

While most may visit for back or neck pain, chiropractors offer a host of other benefits. They treat a multitude of areas and provide recommendations that take into account your whole body — and they do so naturally. 

Consider giving our office a call or booking an initial visit to see how we can help you live your healthiest life.

Sources

1. (n.d.). Back Pain Facts and Statistics - American Chiropractic. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.acatoday.org/Patients/What-is-Chiropractic/Back-Pain-Facts-and-Statistics

2. (2019, April 30). Chiropractic - NCCIH - NIH. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://nccih.nih.gov/health/chiropractic

3. (2017, December). By the numbers: Our stressed-out nation. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/12/numbers

4. (2019, April 25). Americans' Stress, Worry and Anger Intensified in 2018. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://news.gallup.com/poll/249098/americans-stress-worry-anger-intensified-2018.aspx

5. (2017, December). By the numbers: Our stressed-out nation. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.apa.org/monitor/2017/12/numbers

6. (2018, October 30). APA Stress in America™ Survey: Generation Z Stressed About .... Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/2018/10/generation-z-stressed

7. (2019, February 21). Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Anxiety and ... - RtoR.org. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.rtor.org/2019/02/21/mental-health-and-chiropractic-care/

8. (2014, January 22). Changes in biochemical markers of pain perception ... - NCBI. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24450367

9. (n.d.). Headaches and Chiropractic. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.acatoday.org/Patients/Health-Wellness-Information/Headaches-and-Chiropractic

10. (2019, March 28). Integrating Chiropractic Care Into the Treatment of ... - NCBI. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6440032/

11. Ibid.

12. (n.d.). Headaches and Chiropractic. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.acatoday.org/Patients/Health-Wellness-Information/Headaches-and-Chiropractic

13. (2019, July). Spinal Manipulation: What You Need To Know - NCCIH - NIH. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://nccih.nih.gov/health/pain/spinemanipulation.htm

14. (2018, November 19). Musculoskeletal pain and symptoms in pregnancy: a ... - NCBI. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6262502/

15. Ibid.

16. (2016, April 19). Safety and Effectiveness of Pediatric Chiropractic. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.acatoday.org/News-Publications/ACA-News-Archive/ArtMID/5721/ArticleID/165/Safety-and-Effectiveness-of-Pediatric-Chiropractic

17. (n.d.). Chiropractic Frequently Asked Questions. Retrieved January 13, 2020, from https://www.acatoday.org/News-Publications/Newsroom/Chiropractic-Frequently-Asked-Questions

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Why Does a Kid Need a Chiropractor?

“You do that to babies???” Is a common response I get when telling people that I adjust little ones. The look of horror on the person’s face typically fades away quickly as I explain that an adjustment on a baby or small child is completely different than that of an adult. It’s extremely gentle, requiring a light pressure with the tips of my fingers. The next question that I’m usually asked is “Why would a baby need an adjustment?” 

According to the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association over 68 million pediatric chiropractic visits took place in 2013. Typically, people think that one only sees a chiropractor after an auto accident or injury. In all actuality, individuals of any age can have spinal misalignments which result in nerve interference.

If you think about all of the falls and tumbles that children take throughout the different stages of development, it's easy to understand how they might have spinal misalignments. In fact, many parents have their newborns checked by a Doctor of Chiropractic because even the most "natural" birth is straining to a baby's spine. The resulting nerve interference from spinal and cranial misalignments can be related to common symptoms such as colic, reflux, nursing problems, and chronic ear infections. With age, those undetected spinal misalignments can turn into chronic back and neck pain as an adult. Many parents report improved digestion, immune function, breathing and sleeping behaviors once their children start receiving regular chiropractic adjustments.

When visiting a primary care physician, they will typically recommend a medication to treat whatever pain or symptom you or your child may be experiencing. The concern with this is that it merely covers up the symptom rather than addressing the root cause. in addition to masking symptoms, those medications almost always come with side-effects. Chiropractic is a completely safe and natural alternative for addressing a multitude of issues at any age.

For more information about the research and benefits of children under chiropractic care visit icpa4kids.org. 

My name is Dr. Nikki Porteus, CACCP, founder of Renew & Restore Wellness, in Southlake TX. I am trained, certified and passionate about prenatal and pediatric chiropractic techniques. To learn more about how your child would benefit from chiropractic care and how I can help, schedule an appointment here.