“Children are not a distraction from more important work; They are the most important work.” – C.S. Lewis
“OH MY GOODNESS, YOU ADJUST BABIES?!” is the most common question and exclamation I receive when I talk about my practice. Chiropractic is one of the best and safest options for growing children. The first five years of life are a time of incredible growth and stress on the child (and parents). The biggest fear most parents have with pediatric chiropractic is the delivery of the adjustment, and let me reassure you, it is nothing like an adult adjustment.
I have formal training by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) on how to effectively manage and deliver proper treatment to a pregnant mother, and her pediatric child throughout all stages of their life. While the mother is pregnant, she is treated to maintain or restore proper function to her spine and pelvis to promote a healthier pregnancy. Once she delivers her baby, I can review the process of birth with her and analyze and treat her child for dysfunction within his/her spine. The birthing process can be traumatic for the child and the mother, so it is important to get checked to maintain yours and your child’s spinal health.
In regards to the pediatric adjustment, there is no “popping” or “cracking” that you might see with teens and adults. The pressure used on an infant is no more than checking the ripeness of a tomato and just waiting for their tone in the area to change. Sometimes, if needed, I will use an Activator adjuster and reinforce the spinal segment with my finger. It does not take much, but sometimes we all need that little “push” to get the body back to what it does best, healing and protecting.
Some of the most common issues parents come into my office for, and are not limited to:
- Colic
- Ear Infections
- Trouble Nursing/Latching
- Torticollis
- Trouble Sleeping Through the Night
- Constipation
As a parent you’re probably thinking, “Good grief, what parent DOESN’T deal with something like that when raising a child??” – and you are right. That is why I see many parents when they are at their wits-end with no other options than something homeopathic and different than anything they have tried so far. Chiropractic isn’t the ONLY option, but it should be one of your first! A chiropractic adjustment will help free your child’s spine and nervous system from any underlying interference that could be related to these issues. Once our body is clear of these underlying musculoskeletal issues, it can focus on restoring function and getting you back to your optimal health!
If you still have any questions about how chiropractic can change you or your child’s life, please visit my practice website and see how Dr. Amonette and I are helping as many people as we can – one chiropractic adjustment at a time.
Dr. Jonathan Marshall, DC 