Can Chiropractic Care Help My Child?

A child's spine can be stressed or injured during birth. As children learn to walk and run, they fall and can suffer strains and sprains. Periodic checks by a doctor of chiropractic can help identify any developing weaknesses in your child's spine.

History

To help determine whether your child needs treatment, your chiropractor asks questions about your child's birth and development, such as: Did anything unusual happen during
birth? At what age did your child begin to crawl? stand? walk? How do you hold your child? Does your child have unexplained pain, discomfort, or crying? What are your child's physical activities? What falls or injuries has your child had?

Physical Exam

Your chiropractor will observe your child's posture and movements, check reflexes and range of motion in the joints, gently palpate the spine, and check for scoliosis ( curvature
of the spine). The exam should not be painful for your child.

Diagnosis

Based on the results of your child's exam, your doctor of chiropractic may recommend a treatment program to correct any abnormal curvature of the spine, joints or bones that are not
moving properly, or loss of flexibility in the spine. If needed, your child's chiropractor also consults with or refers you to other medical specialists, such as a pediatrician.

How Does a Chiropractor Treat My Child?

It's important for your child to grow up with a healthy spine. Early spinal exams by a doctor of chiropractic may help prevent many health problems later in life. A chiropractor is trained to help maintain or restore the health of your child's spine through adjustments and other gentle treatments. Children usually respond quickly to treatment.

Spinal Adjustments

Spinal adjustments for children are usually different from adjustments for adults. Your chiropractor gently presses on the spine to restore proper motion of the vertebrae and relax the muscles. Your child should feel no pain. Your child's chiropractor
applies light pressure with the fingers during an adjustment.

Other Types of Chiropractic Care

Your chiropractor may suggest other types of treatment to help correct any problems with your child's spine. These may include ice or heat therapy for older children, exercises that help your child develop strong muscles, and things you can do to help your child maintain good nutrition, posture, and sleeping habits.

How Can I Help My Child?

You can help your child develop a healthy spine by scheduling regular chiropractic exams, just as you make regular dental appointf11ents. Observe your child's movements ahd follow these tips:

• When you lift or hold an infant, always support the
  child's back and neck with your hands. Pick up an
  older child by grasping his or her body under both
  arms. Never pick up your child by the arms or legs.
• Use an approved car seat that supports your baby's
  head and neck.
• Provide a firm bed and chairs. Make sure your child
  gets enough sleep and eats a well-balanced diet.
• Make sure your child wears appropriate protective
  gear when playing sports.
• If your child uses a backpack, make sure it's carried
  over both shoulders.