Many spinal problems seen in adults can start as early as birth — with 6-8 injuries occurring every 1000 births. Symptoms such as colic, breathing issues and sleeping problems can often be traced back to stress on the nervous system that may be caused by a spinal misalignment. Chiropractors are trained to detect, reduce and correct spinal misalignments in both kids and adults.
Colic
Misalignments in the spine can affect different systems in the body including the digestive system. One major cause for a baby’s discomfort is problem with digestion, which can lead to colic episodes. Colic is defined as inconsolable crying in an infant that occurs at least three hours a day, three days a week, for three weeks. A colicky baby typically has predictable episodes of intense, inconsolable crying that occurs with no clear cause and is often accompanied by postural changes such as curled up legs, clenched fists and tensed abdominal muscles. Chiropractic care has shown some of the best results, with 94% of colicky babies demonstrating improvement with care.
Ear Infections
Chiropractic care can decrease inflammation and establish proper blood flow and lymph drainage, both of which can affect the function of the middle ear and Eustachian tube. “Chiropractic mobilizes drainage of the ear in children, and if they can drain without a buildup of fluid and subsequent infection, they build their own antibodies and recover faster,” said Dr. Joan Fallon, author of a study published in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics.
Scoliosis
Scoliosis typically develops in adolescents between the ages of 10 and 15 due in part to the rapid growth of the body. Scoliosis affects quality of life by limiting activity, causing pain, reducing lung capacity, and in severe cases affecting heart function. Various forms of treatment for scoliosis are available depending on the severity of the curve. X-rays of the spine can be taken to diagnose scoliosis and to find out how severe the curve is. Things such as where the curve is in the spine, the degree of the curve, and the age and growing stage of the patient, will also be taken into account.
Chiropractic procedures are modified to fit a child’s size, weight, and spinal condition. These procedures are both gentle and specific to the child’s developing spinal structures. Most parents report that their children enjoy chiropractic adjustments and experience an increased level of health while under regular chiropractic care.