Most people think that kids and their own bundles of joy are too young to experience back pain. The misconception that children are stronger just because they’re younger doesn’t take into account the realities of modern lifestyles and variety in physical development.
Many associate back pain and similar issues primarily with adults, often attributing them to factors like ageing, heavy lifting, or sedentary behaviour. However, research indicates that children can also experience a range of musculoskeletal problems, including back pain which is on the rise.
With the widespread use of technology, children spend more time sitting in front of screens, whether it be for schoolwork, gaming, or social media. This sedentary lifestyle can lead to poor posture, which places strain on the spine and muscles.
Neglecting back pain or physical ailments in children can have long-term consequences. Chronic pain can affect a child's quality of life, impacting their ability to participate in activities, engage socially, and perform academically. That’s why, early intervention is crucial; addressing musculoskeletal issues in childhood can prevent more severe problems in adulthood.
Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic Care
Children grow fast—sometimes too fast for their own bodies to keep up. Think about those rapid growth spurts where your child’s body seems to change overnight. With all this growth, it’s not uncommon for spinal misalignments to occur. Pediatric chiropractic can reliably help children feel better in their bodies in a number of ways —
Improves Posture
How many times have you caught your child slouching while using a tablet or computer? Or lugging around an oversized backpack that could double as a small suitcase? Poor posture has become a growing concern with children, especially in the age of technology. Pediatric chiropractors can help correct postural issues before they become long-term problems.
Boosts Immune Function
You might not associate spinal health with immune function, but they’re more connected than you think. The spine houses nerves that are responsible for the proper functioning of the immune system. When the spine is out of alignment, it can interfere with the communication between the brain and the immune system. Chiropractic adjustments help to optimise nerve function, which may lead to better immune responses.
Supports Better Sleep
Is your child tossing and turning at night? Children, like adults, can experience discomfort due to spinal misalignments. Gentle chiropractic adjustments may alleviate that discomfort, helping your child sleep more soundly through the night. And as any parent knows, when the kids sleep well, everyone sleeps well.
Common Issues Pediatric Chiropractors Can Address
Colic and Digestive Issues
It’s hard to watch your baby suffer from colic, isn’t it? Colic and digestive issues can be related to nerve interference caused by spinal misalignment, particularly around the neck and upper back. Chiropractic care for infants involves light adjustments that help relieve pressure on these nerves, often reducing symptoms like colic, reflux, or constipation.
Ear Infections
If your child experiences frequent ear infections, you know how painful they can be. What many parents don’t realise is that chiropractic care can sometimes help prevent recurring ear infections. The nerves in the upper neck affect the Eustachian tube, which drains fluid from the ears. Misalignments in the neck may impede this process, leading to fluid buildup and infection. Gentle adjustments can help restore proper drainage.
Torticollis and Flat Head Syndrome
Have you noticed your baby tilting their head to one side or developing a flat spot on the back of their head? These conditions are known as torticollis and plagiocephaly. Pediatric chiropractors can gently manipulate the muscles and spine to correct these imbalances and reduce the likelihood of developing problems.
Sports-Related Injuries
As children become more active in sports, they’re bound to experience bumps, bruises, and even sprains. This can apply for any child that loves gymnastics, dance, martial arts, climbing and more. Pediatric chiropractors are skilled in treating sports-related injuries, helping young athletes recover quickly and get back to doing what they love.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is a condition where the spine curves abnormally. Early detection and management are key to preventing the curve from worsening as the child grows. Chiropractic care can help monitor and treat scoliosis in its early stages, providing relief from symptoms and helping children maintain a more normal spinal curvature.
When to See a Pediatric Chiropractor
Post-Birth Adjustments
After birth, especially if the delivery was difficult or prolonged, or assisted delivery, infants may experience spinal misalignments from that process. Many parents choose to take their newborns for a chiropractic check-up to ensure proper spinal alignment from the outset. This proactive approach can help set a strong foundation for their child's overall health.
During Growth Spurts
Children experience growth spurts at various stages, some of which can be quite intense. Regular chiropractic visits during these periods can support your child's body as it adapts to rapid physical changes, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote healthy development.
Following Injuries or Trauma
Injuries are a common part of childhood, whether from falls, sports, or accidents. If your child sustains a significant injury, chiropractic care can provide valuable assessment and treatment for any resulting misalignments, ensuring a smoother recovery and reducing the risk of long-term issues.
Signs Your Child May Need Care
Be attentive to signs that may indicate your child needs chiropractic care. Complaints of back or neck pain, poor posture, and coordination difficulties are key indicators. Other red flags include recurring headaches, sleep disturbances, or challenges in reaching developmental milestones.
How Pediatric Chiropractic Care Works
Gentle, Non-Invasive Adjustments
The thought of chiropractic adjustments for children may raise some eyebrows, especially among parents who are concerned about the safety and appropriateness of such treatments for their little ones. However, it’s essential to understand that pediatric chiropractic care is significantly different from adult chiropractic care. Pediatric chiropractors undergo specialised training that equips them with the skills to treat infants and children effectively.
The techniques used in pediatric chiropractic adjustments are gentle and designed specifically for a child's developing body. Chiropractors use light touches, soft manipulations, and specialised tools to ensure comfort and safety during the treatment. Unlike the firmer techniques sometimes employed on adults, pediatric adjustments are tailored to the child’s size, age, and level of physical development. This careful approach minimises discomfort and ensures that children feel relaxed and secure throughout their visit.
Numerous studies and expert opinions have reinforced that pediatric chiropractic care is generally safe when performed by licensed and experienced practitioners. However, parents should always be proactive in seeking care from qualified professionals. It’s essential to choose a chiropractor who specialises in pediatric care and to have an open dialogue about the techniques used and any concerns you may have.
Our Pediatric Chiropractor
Stephanie Choo
Bachelor of Science (HONOURS) Chiropractic (ACM)
Perinatal Certified Chiropractor (ICPA)
Webster Certified Chiropractor (ICPA)
Chiropaeds
Upcoming BirthFit Leader
Chiropractic care offers a variety of benefits for children at every stage of development. Whether it’s improving posture, supporting motor skills, or addressing specific conditions like scoliosis, a pediatric chiropractor can play a valuable role in your child’s overall health and well-being.
It’s important for parents, caregivers, and educators to recognize that children are not immune to back pain and other physical ailments. By fostering awareness and encouraging regular physical activity, proper posture, and ergonomic practices, we can help mitigate these issues and promote healthier habits in children. Don’t be afraid to contact our chiropractic centre to find valuable insights and discuss potential treatment options.
