Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Kids? When Should They Begin Adjustments?

For many parents, ensuring their child grows up happy and healthy is their top priority. With more families turning to alternative health practices for support, chiropractic care has become a popular consideration for addressing certain physical and developmental concerns in kids. But is chiropractic care safe for children? And when should they begin getting adjusted?

Here, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to help you better understand pediatric chiropractic care and whether it’s right for your family.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Kids?

The short answer is yes, chiropractic care is generally safe for children when performed by a licensed and experienced pediatric chiropractor. Chiropractors who specialize in treating children are extensively trained to adjust their techniques to safely address the unique needs of a child’s developing musculoskeletal system.

Unlike adult adjustments that may involve more force, pediatric adjustments are gentle, precise, and tailored to the child’s size and health condition. Practitioners often use light pressure or even fingertips to make adjustments. The focus is on helping the child’s body function as optimally as possible while ensuring their comfort throughout the process.

While research is ongoing, existing studies and anecdotal evidence overwhelmingly indicate the safety of chiropractic care for children when conducted by qualified professionals.

Common Conditions Chiropractic Care May Help Address in Kids:

• Colic: Gentle adjustments may help soothe babies who experience excessive crying due to stomach discomfort.

• Ear infections: Some practitioners claim chiropractic adjustments can help promote fluid drainage in the ears, potentially reducing infections.

• Postural issues: Correcting posture early on can prevent future musculoskeletal problems.

• Sports injuries: Many active kids benefit from chiropractic care to recover from injuries or prevent them altogether.

• Growing pains: Chiropractic adjustments might help relieve discomfort resulting from rapid growth during childhood.

When Should Kids Begin to Get Adjusted?

There’s no universal “right age” to start chiropractic care. Many chiropractors suggest beginning care shortly after birth, as the birthing process itself can sometimes result in spinal misalignments.

Key Stages When Chiropractic Care Could Prove Beneficial:

1. Infancy  

   Newborns may benefit from chiropractic care if they experience issues such as colic, difficulty breastfeeding, or irregular sleep. Adjustments during this stage are extremely gentle and focused on supporting their delicate systems.

2. Toddlerhood (Crawling to Walking)  

   As toddlers become more mobile, they are more likely to experience falls, tumbles, and bumps. Chiropractic care can promote healthy spinal alignment during this highly active stage of development.

3. School Years  

   With growing bodies, heavy backpacks, long periods sitting in desks, and being involved in sports, kids from ages 5 to 12 may benefit from periodic chiropractic check-ups. This can help prevent postural imbalances and reduce the risk of injuries.

4. Teen Years  

   Adolescents often face additional stress on their bodies from sports, extracurricular activities, and even the use of mobile devices, which can lead to poor posture (such as “text neck”). Chiropractic care can address these issues and encourage healthy habits into adulthood.

Choosing the Right Chiropractor for Your Child

Not all chiropractors are trained to work with children, so it’s essential to find a practitioner like Dr. G here at T-Town Chiropractic who specializes in pediatric chiropractic care.

What to Expect During a Pediatric Chiropractic Visit

During an initial visit, the chiropractor will typically begin with a thorough health history and a discussion of your child’s symptoms or concerns. They’ll then conduct an exam to evaluate spinal alignment and overall musculoskeletal health.

If adjustment is deemed necessary, your child will remain comfortable throughout the process. Pediatric adjustments are quick and use very gentle pressure. Most children tolerate them quite well, with many parents reporting that their kids enjoy the sessions.

Final Thoughts

Chiropractic care can be a valuable, non-invasive option utilizing gentle instrument adjusting to support your child’s health throughout their development. Chiropractic adjustments are generally safe for kids when performed by knowledgeable and experienced professionals.

Early intervention and consistent care may set the foundation for a healthy musculoskeletal system that supports your child as they grow, thrive, and take on life with confidence.