Chiropractic care is often associated with adults seeking relief from back pain, headaches, or other musculoskeletal issues. However, an increasing number of parents are turning to chiropractors to support the health and well-being of their babies. The idea of chiropractic care for infants may initially raise questions, but it’s important to understand the gentle nature of pediatric chiropractic care and its benefits
Pediatric chiropractic care: A gentle approach to infant health
Pediatric chiropractic care is a specialized branch of therapy that focuses on the unique needs of infants and children. Unlike the adjustments used for adults, pediatric chiropractors employ gentle, low-force techniques specifically tailored to babies’ developing bodies. These adjustments are so light they are comparable to the pressure you would use to test a tomato’s ripeness. The goal is to ensure that the baby’s spine is properly aligned, allowing the nervous system to function optimally. This can be particularly crucial in the early stages of life when the nervous system is rapidly developing.
Benefits of chiropractic care for babies
- Boosts recovery after birth – Gentle manipulations can help ease tension and strain in your baby’s body and correct nerve issues that may arise.
- Support for colic and reflux symptoms – Many parents turn to chiropractic care to help with colic, excessive crying, or digestive problems. Gentle adjustments can stimulate nerve flow to the small intestines, enhancing digestive function and reducing discomfort.
- Assistance with ear infections – Recurrent ear infections can be distressing for both babies and parents. Chiropractic care can help improve ear drainage and reduce the frequency of infections by ensuring proper alignment and function of the Eustachian tubes.
- Enhanced immune function – Beyond proper nutrition and rest, the immune system relies on a healthy spine. The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) suggests that chiropractic adjustments may help remove spinal subluxations that disrupt nerve communication, thereby supporting the immune system. Parents report that their infants experience fewer colds, ear infections, and other common illnesses in their infants after regular chiropractic adjustments.
- Improves sleep patterns and reduces fussiness – Sleep is essential for a baby’s growth and development. After ruling out sickness, chiropractic sessions can help reduce discomfort from spinal misalignments potentially leading to more sound and longer sleep. A study in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics found that infants who received chiropractic care showed improvements in sleep duration and quality.
- Promoting healthy growth and development – During the first year of life, a baby’s body undergoes rapid growth. The spine doubles in length while the secondary curves in the neck and lower back form. Gentle chiropractic manipulations can help to align your baby’s spine and support healthy development. The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) notes that chiropractic care may also help with issues such as torticollis (a condition where the neck muscles are tightened, causing the head to tilt), plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome), and difficulties with motor skills.
- A non-invasive and drug-free approach – One of the major advantages of chiropractic care for babies is that it is non-invasive and drug-free. This appeals to parents who prefer to avoid medications and invasive procedures unless necessary. Chiropractic care offers a natural option for parents seeking to support their baby’s health and well-being.
Find out if chiropractic care is right for your child
Chiropractic care for babies is a gentle, integrated approach that may support various aspects of health. To find out if chiropractic care is suitable for your baby, consider booking an initial appointment with Dr. Andrea.
Dr. Andrea, a graduate of the Cleveland Chiropractic School in Kansas City, Missouri, has been practicing for 24 years. She is a mother of five and trained in prenatal care and pediatric care, as well as decompression, adjustments, and alternative therapies. Find Dr. Andrea’s hours and contact information here.
This blog is intended to provide general information and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment for your baby.
