It is estimated that over 36 million children in the United States participate in some form of organized sports competition. The vast majority of these children do so as part of the extracurricular activities offered by their schools, although a sizable number do so through community leagues. The American Chiropractic Association reports that the number of young athletes in the United States is roughly equivalent to the number of patients who seek this form of treatment; however, only around 11% of these athletes are under 18.
This aspect is of particular relevance because chiropractic care frequently requires years to cultivate and perfect the musculoskeletal structure. As a result, children and adolescents might pass up the chance to continue or resume their normal levels of growth and development.
Gaining a Knowledge of the Early Development of the Musculoskeletal System
During the first few years of our lives, we experience rapid development and transformation. This indicates that the growth of the neurological system, as well as the development of the musculoskeletal system and other systems, continues at a rapid pace.
The vast majority of children experience this process in response to the typical amounts of stress that are placed on the neuromusculoskeletal system; however, receiving chiropractic treatment can assist in preventing or helping decrease the consequences of stress.
The nervous system of a child can manage and modulate the pain signals that are sent to the brain when the child is under stress. These signals are sent to the brain from the neural system. The next thing that happens is an increase in cortisol production by the brain, which is a hormone related to the stress response in the body. This leads to a tightening of the muscles and ligaments as well as a reduction in joint mobility, all of which are detrimental to a child's overall health and can interfere with healthy musculoskeletal development as it relates to the neurological system.
The maintenance of proper functioning of the nerve system is one of the primary objectives of chiropractic care. This, in turn, enhances the body's ability to respond favorably to both physiological and psychological strains. In the case of children, chiropractors can provide assistance to parents by providing specialized care for children, which can help youngsters reach and maintain their best possible health.
The field of pediatric chiropractic care provides a wide range of treatment options to cater to the requirements of children and their families throughout the critical phases of musculoskeletal growth.
3 Benefits Of Chiropractic Care For Infants
- Improved Spine and Neck Development: Chiropractic adjustments help to maintain the proper alignment of the spine, which is crucial for a healthy posture and overall health. When infants undergo Chiropractic care, they can benefit from improved neck and spine development. This ensures that the infant's nervous system has optimum functioning, reducing their risk of common childhood disorders such as ear infections and colic.
- Enhanced Blood Circulation: The effectiveness of chiropractic care lies in its ability to improve blood circulation in the body. When an infant receives chiropractic adjustments, it helps increase blood flow in their bodies, which boosts immune system efficiency. This allows for better delivery of nutrients throughout the body, leading to faster healing and less discomfort.
- Reduced Stress Levels: Many parents may not think of chiropractic adjustments as a way to reduce stress, but it has been known to do just that. Receiving occasional chiropractic care can help relieve tension in the body, which is especially beneficial for infants who are dealing with growth spurts or new environments. Chiropractors can also guide how to improve sleep patterns in children and offer advice on proper nutrition and exercise habits.
What Benefits Children May Get from Seeing a Chiropractor
Chiropractors work with children by giving a variety of therapies in addition to manipulating the spine as part of their practice. When present, spinal subluxation has the potential to disrupt both the normal functioning of the immune system as well as its normal development.
This indicates that a child may have an impaired immune system and a diminished ability to resist infections and diseases if the subluxation is not addressed. Chiropractic care may be an essential component of the overall health care regimen that is necessary to ensure a child's healthy growth and development during the formative years, which are an essential time for growth and development. Let's have a look at the different stages of development and how chiropractic treatments can help:
Between Four and Six Years
Throughout this time, children actively acquire and develop physical and social abilities in addition to preparing for puberty. During the stages preceding puberty, the musculoskeletal system undergoes rapid growth and development, and it is not uncommon for children to have bouts of pain and discomfort. This is a positive indicator, as it indicates that the child's musculoskeletal system is beginning to grow.
As the child begins to develop and become more mobile, he or she may experience little pain and discomfort; if the pain worsens at any stage, chiropractic care can provide adjustments that can relax the nerve tissue around the spine. The objective of chiropractic care for this age group is to promote healthy spinal growth and development and aid in the management of musculoskeletal conditions.
Some youngsters may sustain sports-related injuries and must acquire and develop the skills necessary to deal with them. Hence, chiropractic care will be of great benefit to the developing adolescent. The objective of chiropractic care for this age group is to promote healthy growth and development and aid in the management of musculoskeletal conditions.
Between Seven and Nine Years
Children in this age group are preparing for secondary school and puberty; as a result, they are typically quite active and frequently complain of back and neck pain, stiff neck, and leg and foot pain. This indicates that their growth and development are bearing fruit and that they are attaining their full potential later in life. At this age, children have greater freedom of movement and mobility, which can place additional stress on the musculoskeletal system. Routine chiropractic care can encourage healthy growth and development and aid in the management of musculoskeletal conditions.
Between 10 and 12 Years
This age group is typically when children transfer into secondary education, which requires a more structured setting. The purpose of chiropractic care at this age is to enhance the development and management of musculoskeletal conditions at a period when children often develop an interest in sports and athletics. It is essential to remember that youngsters of this age will become more physically active as part of their development.
Between 13 and 17 Years
Children in this age range may develop back pain when they enter adolescence if scoliosis has not been previously detected; nonetheless, these issues must be addressed as soon as possible to prevent pain and dysfunction later in life. Chiropractic therapy is essential for promoting general health and managing musculoskeletal conditions. The objective of chiropractic care for this age group is to promote healthy growth and development and aid in the management of musculoskeletal conditions. It should be emphasized that this age group is more susceptible to mental health difficulties such as anxiety, stress, and depression; adolescents who suffer from spinal and musculoskeletal issues in addition to developing pains might benefit greatly from chiropractic care.
Find Out More About Chiropractic Care for Children
Parents are typically unaware of chiropractic care for children. To promote optimal growth, children must be flexible and maintain proper posture. If a child's development is subpar, spinal health may be jeopardized. In addition to gains in posture, mobility, and flexibility, many children also report better sleep and more regular digestion.
Contact our office if you have any questions about how Peak Potential Chiropractic Care may be a partner in your child's growth.
