Why Should My Kids See a Chiropractor?

I get this question all the time. Adult patients that are under care, often ask me why their kids should see a chiropractor. They have come in for pain, tightness or stiffness and it’s difficult to understand why they’d need to bring in their kids who seem to be doing just fine. However, pain isn’t the only reason to go to the chiropractor. Just like kids might not realize they are getting a cavity, but go to the dentist anyway, getting assessed by a chiropractor can help discover underlying issues before they become a problem.

Below I’ve gone through some frequently asked questions by parents on why to get chiropractic care for children. If you have any other questions or inquiries, I invite you to contact me and I’d love to discuss this further. My email is dr.marleelameris@gmail.com.

Why chiropractic care for kids?

Children have many falls, injuries and accidents as they grow. These small falls, such as when they are learning how to walk, can accumulate into bigger issues as the spine and nervous system grows and matures. This can cause the body to not function properly. The pain and issues may not show up for years it is important to get your child spinal checkup on a regular basis.

When should I get my child adjusted?

All children should be adjusted as soon after birth as possible because the birth process is often traumatic. Even the ‘easy’ births can have some ‘hidden damage’ to the nervous system. Studies have shown that many children who experience colic, reflux, gassiness and fussiness at the breast have spinal issues in their neck and skull from the birth process.

What if they are older, say 3, 7 or 12, should I still get them checked?

ABSOLUTELY! Many children have spinal dysfunctions from normal developmental milestones, such as learning to pull themselves up to standing, walking, running and falling. Often the toddler years are just an accumulation of falls on the buttocks, head trauma and multiple other injuries, all of which can impact their growth and development. Children who are incredibly active, whether that be with sports, school or playing on the playground, could use an assessment to make sure they are moving properly. 

Getting your child checked and adjusted in these crucial growth times can assist in better sleep patterns, potty training assistance, increased attention and focus in school and an overall reduction of bed-wetting, constipation and irritability.

Does it hurt?

Chiropractic care for adults and children are very different. Chiropractors who focus on adjusting children use very gentle specific techniques and adjustments. Often there is less than 3-4 ounces of pressure with the adjustment and it is done with a very light touch. The amount of pressure is incredibly gentle and is equivalent to the force used to check the ripeness of a tomato. Chiropractic care for children is incredibly safe, gentle and effective.