Chiropractic for Kids

Newborns and Infants

When I worked in Southern California, I worked closely with a group of midwives to adjust newborns immediately after birth. Why would a newborn need chiropractic care? Think about the birth process from the baby’s perspective, the stress placed on the skull and neck during the squeeze through the birth canal. We’ve all seen the result- a misshapen skull. It may correct itself just fine, or it may be the start of a lifelong problem. It was in my case; I still have the dents from a forceps delivery. C-section delivery has its own effects on the skull- pressure is suddenly released, and the skull is overexpanded. This can also result in problems with skull motion.

Why take the chance? I check infants for a very low fee when you bring them in with you to your visits. Get them off to an optimal start!

Younger children

We’re always amazed at the falls, bumps, and bruises that kids sustain, apparently without real injury. Kids do have great recuperative abilities. They initially have no history of injury. The small stresses do take care of themselves, but even injuries that result in altered joint motion might not be noticed. That altered joint motion- subluxation- can persist and set up long term problems if not resolved.

I modify my techniques, and use special ones for kids so it’s not scary or painful to adjust them. Under normal circumstances, if there’s no major injury, we can take care of small problems before they become big ones, then check once a year or so to keep your wonderful child in top shape for the future.

As they grow up

More bumps and bruises, athletics, school activities, backpacks that become way too heavy- childhood is not without its physical stresses. Again, the ideal approach is to check periodically and prevent problems.

If your child complains about a physical pain, have it checked out. With rare exceptions, kids don’t make up pains, and if it’s bad enough for them to mention it, it’s bad enough to be evaluated and corrected if necessary.

If your child is an athlete, the concern is not only prevention and correction of injury, but optimum performance. The muscle balancing techniques I use allow symmetrical body development and the most efficient application of strength to athletic performance. Stronger, more balanced muscles lessen the chance of injury.

The long term view

One of the most gratifying aspects of practicing in one place for so long is seeing people I treated fresh from the womb grow into strong, healthy adults. When they’re coming home on a break from college, they call their parents to make them an appointment. They get a job, get married, and bring their own kids in to continue the cycle of better health. It’s wonderful to be a part of their lives.