What is Pediatric Chiropractic Care
Pediatric chiropractic care focuses on providing specialized chiropractic treatment to infants, children, and adolescents. Chiropractors who specialize in pediatric care receive extra training to understand the unique needs of young patients. They use gentle techniques tailored to the child’s age to address various health issues.
Pediatric chiropractic care aims to support proper development, promote overall wellness, and enhance the body’s natural healing abilities in children. This type of care may include spinal adjustments, lifestyle advice, nutritional guidance, and other holistic approaches customized to the child’s specific needs. Since children’s bodies are still growing and developing, pediatric chiropractors ensure that the care they provide is appropriate and considers the child’s age and stage of development.
12 Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic Care
1. Helps in the Development of Nervous System

When a child’s spine is not in the right position, it can cause more than just back pain. The spine is like the central hub of a child’s whole body, including their physical health, emotions, and energy levels. Since children’s spines and nervous systems are still growing, it’s important to keep them in good shape.
Regular adjustments to a child’s back and neck help their body feel more balanced and calm. When their nervous system is balanced, it helps in many areas of their life. It can make them feel healthier, boost their immune system, and support the proper growth of their spine. So, by taking care of their spine,
we’re helping kids feel better in many ways.
2. Brain Development

Pediatric chiropractic care strengthens the connection between brain nerves and the rest of the body, reducing pressure on joints, bones, and the spine. This improvement in neural brain development leads to better concentration, reduced hyperactivity, and improved focus.
This can be especially helpful for children with conditions like ADHD, as it makes it easier for them to focus and concentrate. So, by getting chiropractic care, children can improve how their brain works and manage behavioral challenges better.
3. Improve Sleep Quality

We all know that good sleep is for a child’s health and well-being. Even a small misalignment in a child’s spine can make it difficult for them to fall asleep or stay asleep. Misaligned vertebrae can cause discomfort and upset their central nervous system. This discomfort might lead to stiffness, pain, or minor discomfort that wakes them up during the night or affects the quality of their sleep, making them grumpy and irritable.
Chiropractic care can make a big difference in helping a child sleep better. Regular visits to a pediatric chiropractor can help align their spine properly, allowing their body to relax and sleep peacefully. Parents often notice positive changes in their child’s sleep patterns after chiropractic visits, such as earlier bedtimes, fewer night time wake-ups, more consistent sleep patterns, decreased tiredness, and a better balance of energy levels throughout the day.
4. Help Manage Bedwetting

Chiropractors focus on aligning the spine and musculoskeletal system through hands-on manipulation. This treatment, traditionally used for pain relief, has shown promising results for bedwetting in some children. By restoring normal motion in the spine, chiropractic adjustments allow the nerves to function properly, reducing stress on the organs and promoting optimal function.
If considering chiropractic care for bedwetting, it’s essential to choose a provider experienced in treating children and comfortable addressing this specific issue.
5. Support in Post-Birth Recovery

Chiropractic care for babies can help ease strain and tension in their bodies and correct any nerve issues that may have occurred during birth.
During childbirth, babies can experience physical traumas like crooked spines, torticollis (neck stiffness), and underdeveloped digestive systems. These traumas can happen regardless of whether the birth was vaginal or via C-section. As babies are pushed out during birth, this process can affect their spine and potentially injure nerves.
Pediatric chiropractic care can help alleviate these traumas, supporting post-birth recovery and promoting healthy growth and development in babies.
While babies have a remarkable ability to heal on their own, sometimes chiropractic intervention is needed. Gentle spinal manipulation can correct any nerve dysfunction, speeding up the healing process.
6. Helps with Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is encouraged for new moms, but it’s not always easy. Sometimes babies have trouble breastfeeding or moms experience pain. Chiropractic care can help with many of these issues.
In a case study, an 8-day-old baby couldn’t breastfeed properly because of neck and head problems. A chiropractor gently adjusted the baby’s spine and head over three visits, and the baby started breastfeeding better after that.
Chiropractic care can help babies with breastfeeding difficulties
chiropractic care helps remove the interference in the infant’s nervous system and improves latching and sucking.
7. Better Immune System

Chiropractic therapy can benefit the immune system, making it easier for children to fight off illnesses like colds or infections. This type of care helps improve immunity, reducing the frequency of illnesses.
Research has shown several benefits of chiropractic care for immune system function:
- One study found that chiropractic adjustments increased the levels of important white blood cells called polymorphonuclear neutrophils and monocytes, which are
crucial for fighting infections.
- Another study involving HIV-positive patients showed that chiropractic adjustments led to a 48% increase in CD4 cells, a type of immune cell that helps fight off infections.
- Chiropractic care has also been found to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can weaken the immune system by causing chronic inflammation.
8. Enhanced Digestion and Bowel Function

Good digestive health is crucial for children as it directly impacts their overall well-being and development. Unfortunately, many kids today face digestive issues like constipation, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and food allergies.
Pediatric chiropractic care has been supported by extensive studies and research, showing its effectiveness in improving digestive health for children. For example:
A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that children who received chiropractic adjustments for functional constipation showed significant improvement in their bowel habits. These adjustments were tailored to address spinal misalignments and nervous system imbalances, aiming to restore proper communication between the brain and the digestive organs. The results showed a decrease in the frequency of constipation episodes and reduced discomfort associated with constipation.
Another study published in the Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association focused on reducing reflux symptoms in infants. Chiropractors used gentle techniques, including the Webster Technique, to reduce tension and misalignments in the spine and diaphragm of infants suffering from reflux. The study observed a decrease in the frequency and intensity of reflux episodes in infants who received chiropractic adjustments.
9. Treat Symptoms of Colic

Colic, a condition marked by excessive crying in babies, doesn’t have a definite cause, but many health experts believe it may stem from issues in the gut. Factors like sensitivity to breast or formula milk, infant acid reflux, and an underdeveloped digestive system are thought to contribute.
A scientific study conducted in 2012, lasting three months, found that chiropractic care could be effective in treating colic. The study showed that 94 percent of the participants experienced improved colic symptoms after receiving chiropractic care.
Another study suggested that chiropractic care might be more effective than medications in treating colic. These studies provide evidence that chiropractic care could be a valuable option for managing colic symptoms in infants.
10. Helps Prevent and Treat Ear Infections (Otitis Media)

Chiropractic care can be beneficial in reducing ear infections by improving drainage in the ears, which is why medical doctors sometimes refer patients with ear infections to chiropractors.
A study focusing on 46 children under the age of 5 showed promising results. The study investigated whether chiropractic adjustments could improve symptoms caused by ear infections
Surprisingly, 93 percent of the children involved saw improved symptoms, with 75 percent experiencing improvement within just 10 days. (J Manipulative Physiol Ther 1996; 19:169-77)
It’s important to note that one symptom of an ear infection is a general loss of balance. Chiropractors use various techniques to restore the body’s balance, including chiropractic ear pull, which has been effective in addressing this issue
11. Minimizes the Risk of Injury

Children are naturally active, which can sometimes lead to injuries or misalignments in their bodies. Chiropractic care can play a vital role in minimizing the risk of injuries by ensuring the body stays in optimal alignment.
Even though major injuries in children are usually noticeable, it’s often challenging to detect minor injuries called micro traumas. These can result from everyday activities like tripping or falling. Over time, these micro traumas can lead to subluxations, which are misalignments in the spine that may cause long-term health issues.
Chiropractors are skilled at identifying and correcting these misalignments or subluxations. By addressing these issues early on, chiropractic care can help children stay active, healthy, and reduce the risk of long-term health problems associated with misalignments.
12. Keep Your Child’s Posture Strong and Healthy

Your child’s posture is a crucial indicator of their overall health because it reflects the health and alignment of their spine.
Chiropractic care supports the development of your child’s spine and body by ensuring proper alignment and posture. It also helps children manage the inevitable bumps and falls of childhood while promoting flexibility and strength as they grow. Detecting and addressing spine issues early on can help your child reach their full potential in growth and development.
Is it Safe for a Child to Go to a Pediatric Chiropractor?
Chiropractic adjustments for children are safe, gentle, and effective when performed by a licensed and qualified chiropractor. As children grow and their bodies change, the chiropractor will personalize the treatment plan to meet their evolving physiology, anatomy, and health needs.
It’s important to note that chiropractic treatments for children are not painful. Some children may cry during treatment due to fear of the popping sound or the quick movements made by the chiropractor, while others may be apprehensive due to fear of strangers or previous negative experiences with doctors. However, chiropractors are prepared for these situations and take the time to meet with the child, discuss their treatment plan, and communicate with them before performing any adjustments.
“It is never too early or too late to start chiropractic care! I have seen newborns as young as 24 hours old to adults up to 99 years old! Starting care at any age can be beneficial, but the earlier you start care the better.”
Dr. Allison Lang, DC – practicing chiropractic care at Curis Functional Health in Midlothian, TX
“I recommend to parents that I check their baby as soon as they are out of the womb. The birth process may be traumatic for the baby (and the mother). Some parents seek out chiropractic once there is an issue with their child’s function but, it is best to do preventative care.”
Dr. Lauren Baker, DC – serves the Kingwood, TX area at Curis Functional Health
“Birth is a dicey business no matter how natural or easy. I see infants right after birth to keep them well and also to aid breastfeeding and digestion. Plus, those early visits help coach the new parents on home care to undo abnormal fetal position.“
Dr. Stephanie Maj, DC – Chiropractor in Chicago Lakeview, IL at Curis Functional Health
How Often Should You Take Your Child to a Pediatric Chiropractor?
Chiropractic treatment for children varies as much as it does for adults, and there is no set formula. Unlike adults, children may not always display pain symptoms that indicate they need chiropractic care. To address this, it’s recommended to establish a regular treatment schedule with your chiropractor, similar to how you would with your dentist or pediatrician. Regular visits can help identify minor issues before they escalate and keep your child healthy and happy.
Here’s a basic guideline for pediatric chiropractic visits:
- First month of life.
- Every 3 months for the first year.
- Every 6-12 months thereafter.
Additionally, consider bringing your child in for treatment during major growing milestones, after experiencing physical trauma like a fall or accident, if you notice signs of imbalance such as limping or head tilting, or if they are involved in sports and sustain injuries while playing. Regular check-ups and addressing any concerns promptly can contribute to your child’s overall well-being and development.
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“The frequency of care is dependent on the individual patient! Depending on the complaint, it is typically necessary to be seen more frequently at the beginning of care and as your body heals, the frequency is decreased! A majority of patients prefer to continue care on a maintenance basis to continue to feel and function their best!”
Dr. Allison Lang, DC
Dr. Lang specializes in pregnancy, postnatal, and pediatric care. She is certified in the Webster Technique and infant and prenatal Craniosacral Therapy, emphasizing holistic healing and natural healthcare.
“During my 18 years in practice, I have witnessed the best results with once to twice a month preventative care. They may require more frequent visits if they have a health challenge.”
Dr. Lauren Baker, DC
Dr. Baker focuses on pediatrics and pregnancy care. Her expertise in chiropractic care is backed by a Doctorate from Texas Chiropractic College and certification in the Webster Technique.
“Every child is different and so are my recommendations. Obviously, if there is an issue such as colic, reflux or breastfeeding, then I will see those infants more frequently until healing has occurred. Remember, babies are not old and scarred like we are so healing happens much quicker. I always say wellness could be every couple of weeks to every month, depending on the health of the child.”
Dr. Stephanie Maj, DC
Dr. Maj offers specialized chiropractic care for infants and new parents focusing on early wellness, breastfeeding, and digestion. Her approach is informed by a holistic understanding of health needs from birth, advocating for early and regular chiropractic visits.

Choosing the Best Pediatric Chiropractic Care for Your Child
When seeking chiropractic care for your child, it’s crucial to select a practitioner who specializes in pediatric chiropractic care. Curis Chiropractors are highly trained experts in providing gentle, effective, and personalized care tailored to children’s unique needs. With their specialized expertise and commitment to your child’s well-being, Curis Chiropractors ensure a positive and nurturing experience during each visit.
Experience the difference with Curis Chiropractors and prioritize your child’s health with expert pediatric chiropractic care today. With over 60+ clinics nationwide, finding a convenient location for your family is easier than ever, ensuring that expert care is always within reach.