By Dr. Jonathan Cartile, DC
Through my career I have had people ask me if I treat kids with chiropractic. The answer is YES. They have a nervous system just like adults, They have a skeletal system that is on the path to being just like an adults. Chiropractic treatment in children can be beneficial for a range of conditions including frequent ear infections, colic, constipation, nervous system issues, growing pains, growth issues, scoliosis, birthing trauma and sports injuries. Treating these issues in childhood helps to promote healthy growth that will affect kids into adulthood.
The birth process is one that is very hard and physical on both the mother and baby. Very often, this is when nervous system and skeletal issues start. The upper neck is at high risk of strain from the compression and pulling that are so common in modern births. As the spine develops and children start to weight-bear the stresses on the spine begin to change. How that body adapts to that change can have long lasting effects.
Chiropractic treatment in kids is where I feel I can make the most impact in their lives. They are still growing and developing, so when we get proper alignment and nervous system function we remove potential barriers for growth. With treatment, the results are quick and they last for much longer in kids than adults.
Interestingly, I have found over the years that kids are starting to fall into the same traps as adults now more than ever. Being a kid use to be about playing outside and in sport. Now kids are more happy being on a smart phone or video game. These long periods of sedentary activities are similar to adults working a 40-hour week. Kids are putting more strain on their bodies than ever before, and that strain is more from inaction than overuse. Kids are starting to show more adult posture problems.
Getting kids in the habit of enjoying physical playing and sport will let them spinal health into adulthood. This healthier child will respond much better to chiropractic and reduce the frequency of needing to get their spine checked. If you are interested in having your child assessed contact us at Innate Wellness for more information on our Kids & Chiropractic Promotion (valid until December 31, 2015).
