The evidence that chiropractic is effective in supporting the health of pediatric patients is extremely plentiful and potentially offers new perspectives for families and their pediatricians to consider. This article will highlight some of the key stages of a child’s development where chiropractic care can be most valuable. Additionally the pediatric chiropractor insightfully considers in-utero development of the spine and nervous system as well as birth traumas that occur and often go undetected initially. 

The significance of pediatric spinal development leads the chiropractor to consider the value of prenatal care based on the relationship between structure vs. function – that is, how the baby’s spine endures multiple forms of distress even prior to the birth process and the effects on the young nervous system. There is evidence to show that in-utero constraint affects fetal development and is connected to outcomes such as congenital torticollis, plagiocephaly, and congenital hip dislocation. Prenatal positioning may also lead to cranial deformation as well as dysfunction of the relationship between the head, 1^st and 2^nd vertebrae. This complex region of the spine has vast neurological connections and can be dysfunctional when under distress. For example a baby in-utero stuck in a brow presentation - that is, with the head stuck in the extension position, commonly presents with an unhealthy forward head posture as an older child. 

Some chiropractors are trained not only in assessing the alignment and mobility of the spine, but of the care of cranial distortions as well. The ability to detect subtle functional challenges positions the pediatric chiropractor as an expert in the mechanics of the developing pediatric spine. At Pure Balance, Dr. Michael Magwood and Dr. Raeann Zschokke are experts in assessing neurological tone by both touch and observation. Tone is the living vibration of the body. It can be used clinically to balance the relative ease or dis-ease of the entire functioning body.

The oversight in detecting traumas resulting from the birth process is well understood in both medicine and chiropractic. Presenting the benefits of chiropractic care to pediatricians is simply an opportunity to explain the trend of families getting their children adjusted. Parents truly understand the value of pediatric chiropractic care and its proven safety. 

Collaborative care with pediatricians creates opportunities to refer children to chiropractors and is in the best interest of children as they develop. Effective communication in sharing this information is essential to bring the specialties together and create possibilities for improved outcomes in pediatrics. It involves a specific showcase of the vast knowledge and skills of the pediatric chiropractor. This peer exchange requires a review of the literature relative to utilization, treatment and the healing responses of children under care. Finally, it ends the situation where it takes a chiropractic patient to educate their pediatrician about the true benefits of a lifestyle that incorporates chiropractic.

For more information, call the Pure Balance centers at (212)661-5656 in the Murray Hill neighborhood in Midtown Manhattan or (973)773-8244 in Clifton, New Jersey. 

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek professional advice from your physician or other qualified health provider if you have any questions about a medical condition.