IS CHIROPRACTIC CARE SAFE FOR CHILDREN?
To address the question in a nutshell, chiropractic is safe for children. Several small-scale research investigations on the safety of chiropractic care for children have all shown it to be safe. Chiropractic care can be provided to children of all shapes and sizes with no safety concerns. In the hands of a professionally qualified chiropractor, even infants are safe.
The safety and effectiveness of chiropractic care for children have been well researched and documented. For example, a study published by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that "Chiropractic care, when delivered properly, is among the safest forms of health care for children."
WHAT SHOULD PARENTS KNOW ABOUT CHIROPRACTIC?
Parents should know a few things about chiropractic before they take their children to a chiropractor. Here are some of the most important things:
Chiropractors are extensively trained healthcare professionals who specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating musculoskeletal conditions. Chiropractors use various techniques to treat conditions, but the most common is spinal manipulation.
Spinal manipulation is a gentle and safe treatment effective for many conditions. Spinal manipulation is so safe that it is considered one of the safest forms of healthcare available.
Chiropractic care is drug-free and does not involve surgery. This makes it an excellent option for parents looking for safe and effective healthcare for their children.
Chiropractors focus on the whole person, not just the symptoms. This means that chiropractic care can help to improve overall health and well-being, not just address specific symptoms.
Chiropractors are primary healthcare providers, meaning they can assess, diagnose, and treat many conditions. In most cases, chiropractic care can be used as a first-line treatment option before resorting to drugs or surgery.
HOW TO FIND A GOOD CHIROPRACTOR FOR YOUR CHILD?
Now that you know a little more about chiropractic care, you might wonder how to find a good chiropractor for your child. Here are a few tips:
Ask Around: Talk to friends, family and your healthcare provider for recommendations.
Do Your Research: Once you have a few names, research to find out more about each chiropractor.
Check Credentials: Ensure the chiropractor you are considering is appropriately qualified and licensed.
Ask Questions Again – When you meet with the chiropractor, be sure to ask any questions you may have about their qualifications, experience and approach to care.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING A CHIROPRACTIC VISIT FOR YOUR CHILD?
During a typical chiropractic visit, the chiropractor will take a detailed health history and perform a physical examination. They may also order additional tests, such as x-rays, if necessary. Based on the findings, the chiropractor will develop a treatment plan.
The treatment plan may involve a combination of spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy and rehabilitation exercises. The specific approach will be tailored to meet your child's individual needs.
IS CHIROPRACTIC GOOD FOR KIDS?
Chiropractic treatments have also been shown to be an effective treatment strategy for many children's disorders other than pain management. In addition, as your child develops and grows, chiropractic therapy will help balance the joints, muscles, and nerves, allowing the brain and nervous system to communicate effectively.
Like adults, children who have suffered bone injuries from falls or vehicle accidents benefit from consulting a chiropractor. While it is natural to believe that children are more robust simply because they are children, this is not always the case. Children can develop chronic diseases later in life if the initial harm is not addressed. In addition, children, like adults, are susceptible to disc misalignment and nerve compression, so bring your child in for treatment following an injury.
IS THE TREATMENT IDENTICAL FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS?
The underlying idea of chiropractic treatment is the same for adults and children; however, the amount of pressure used and the treatment process will differ. The amount of pressure required to reposition an infant, for example, has been compared to using your finger to examine the freshness of a tomato. In addition, children do not require the same level of pain management as adults, and they react to treatment far more quickly.
The number of treatments required will also differ based on the age and condition of your child. For example, newborns and infants often only require a single treatment, while older children may need several treatments for a few weeks or months.
ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT FOR CHILDREN?
Chiropractic treatment is generally considered a safe and effective treatment option for adults and children. However, as with any medical treatment, some risks are associated with chiropractic care. These risks are typically minor and can be easily avoided by choosing a qualified and experienced chiropractor.
To minimize the risks associated with chiropractic care, be sure to:
Choose a qualified and experienced chiropractor.
Make sure that the chiropractor is licensed correctly.
Ask the chiropractor about their qualifications, experience and approach to care.
Discuss any concerns you have with the chiropractor before treatment.
Follow the chiropractor's instructions for care and treatment.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN A CHIROPRACTOR TREAT?
Chiropractic care is most commonly used to treat musculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain, neck pain and headaches. However, chiropractic care can also be used to treat a wide range of other states, including:
Arthritis
Asthma
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Digestive disorders
Ear infections
Fibromyalgia
High blood pressure
Infertility
Migraines and other headaches
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
As for your kids, chiropractic care can be used to treat a wide range of childhood conditions, including:
ADD/ADHD
Allergies
Asthma
Bedwetting
Colic
Constipation
Ear infections (otitis media)
Growing pains
Headaches/migraines Inattention
Common signs your child might benefit from treatment include:
- Walking with a minor limp.
- Being unsteady when running or walking.
- Only wanting to nurse from one side.
Watch alerts for irregularities. Anytime you believe it is necessary, make an appointment with our chiropractic staff at Peak Potential Family Chiropractic.
