Chiropractic Care for Kids: Adjusting to Life
Dr. Carolyne Hiebert BSc DC
Have you ever considered chiropractic care for your children? Over the past few years, Dr. Carolyne Hiebert has seen an increase in the number of parents bringing their children into her office for chiropractic care.
Why are so many parents choosing chiropractic care for their children?
Parents are turning to chiropractic care for their children for the same reason they choose chiropractic care for themselves: increased health and vitality through enhanced spinal health and nervous system function.
Chiropractors are trained to make proper adjustments to the spine and pelvis to relieve stress from the nervous system. If the nervous system is out of balance from undue stress in the spine, we see various symptomatic presentations. By maintaining that balance, chiropractors can alleviate symptoms for patients—including children.
What causes spinal and nervous system stress and when should one be checked by a chiropractor?
Three main factors can cause stress on our bodies:
• chemical stress (environmental, toxins)
• emotional stress (school, work, home)
• physical stress (falls, accidents, trauma)
For children, the best time to be checked for stress in the spine and nervous system is as soon as possible after birth. Birth, even vaginal births free of complications, can be traumatic for both the mother and baby and the first spinal stress often occurs during this time. If added force, traction or intervention is needed during the birth process, the stress is amplified. Having a child checked by a certified doctor of chiropractic afterwards allows parents the comfort of knowing their child is free of nervous system interference and is at her best for development.
What happens when the child is older?
Physical, emotional and chemical stressors are always present throughout a child’s life. Falls and bumps from learning to walk or playing on the playground happen daily. Stress at home and school are present and environmental and food toxicity is constantly rising. Early detection is key, allowing the child’s nervous system to function well, adapting to these stressors and overcoming them.
What frequency and type of adjustments can I expect for my child?
Children’s spines and health concerns are different than adults. Thought, preparation and training have been done to take care of these patients. Little ones require only little adjustments, either by hand or instrument. Wellness check-ups to maintain good health occur along developmental milestones and with any added stress in the child’s life.
Frequency may vary for specific concerns such as ear infections, car accidents, or other concerns.
What does the research say?
According to research, the top benefits of chiropractic care for children are better overall mood, better sleep patterns and increased immune system function. Research and experience also shows that chiropractic care for children helps with common health concerns such as asthma, allergies, ear infections, colic, autism, attention deficit disorder, torticollis, and more.
How can I find out more?
Please visit the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association’s website or the BCAA website to find out more valuable information relating to chiropractic care for children.
Dr. Carolyne Hiebert BSc DC practices in the Fraser Valley. She and her husband Dr. Jonathan Hiebert own and operate Pacific Life Chiropractic.
Great post! Chiropractic is part of my preconception wellness care plan and I intend to continue care through pregnancy and have my baby checked too 🙂