Children just like us adults have a nervous system which is the master controller responsible for supplying and coordinating all their bodily functions. It may be difficult to accept that a newborn could have spinal trauma following birth, however research has shown spinal misalignments often occur as a direct result of the birthing process. (1) A study concluded that at least 90% of babies had spinal dysfunctions immediately following birth with identified strain patterns through the neck and cranial structures with the majority remaining asymptomatic (no signs of problems). (1) Therefore, it is essential for the little ones to have a nervous system functioning at an optimal level from birth to promote self-regulating and healing mechanisms of their bodies throughout their developing years.
Most segmental dysfunctions are pain free and hence are often left untreated for many years, interfering with the nerve supply and output. These dysfunctions can stem from common activities such as learning to walk, riding a bike, or engaging in sports. At Spinal Harmony, we endorse comprehensive childhood development by utilizing age-appropriate and gentle techniques characterized by low force and low amplitude (3, 4, 5).
Chiropractors may assist in treating various conditions in children such as;
- Musculoskeletal problems
- Torticollis (difficulty turning head to one side)
- Postural concerns
- Headaches
- Plagiocephaly (flattening of the head)
- Difficulty breastfeeding (6)
References
1.How to have Well Adjusted Babies, 2nd Edition: Dr. Jennifer Barham-Floreani (Australia’s Foremost Family Wellness Expert), 2009.
2.Blocked Atlantal Nerve Syndrome in Babies and Infants. Gutman G., Manuelle Medizin. 1987; 25:5-10.
3. Marchand AM. Chiropractic care of children from birth to adolescence and classification of reported conditions: an internet cross-sectional survey of 956 European chiropractors. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2012;35(5):372-80.
4. Vallone S, Miller J, Larsdotter A, Barham-Floreani J. Chropractic approach to the management of children. Chiropractic & osteopathy. 2010;18(16):1-8.
5. Miller J. Demographic survey of pediatric patients presenting to a chiropractic teaching clinic. Chiropractic and Osteopathy. 2010;18.
6. Miller JE, Miller L, Sulesund AK, Yevtushenko A. Contribution of chiropractic therapy to resolving suboptimal breastfeeding: a case series of 114 infants. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2009;32(8):670-4.
Spinal Harmony Family Chiropractic 