Should I Take My Baby to See a Pediatric Chiropractor?
When we think of chiropractic care, most of us picture adults seeking relief from back pain or muscle tension. However, many parents are now exploring chiropractic care for their babies with great success. They often seek out a pediatric chiropractor for concerns such as colic, feeding difficulties, or disrupted sleep patterns for their little ones.
Are you wondering if a pediatric chiropractor is right for your baby? The expert team at Jewell Chiropractic is here to answer your questions and guide you to the appropriate treatment. Our compassionate providers in Portland and Tigard, Oregon can offer care for you and your child. Use our online portal to schedule your appointment today.
What Is a Pediatric Chiropractor?
Pediatric chiropractic care is a specialized type of chiropractic medicine. It supports the health of the spine and nervous system in infants and children. It may seem as if chiropractic adjustments are too strong for infants, but the spinal adjustments given to babies are very gentle, with extremely light pressure.
The goal is to support the body’s natural healing processes and optimize the baby’s nervous system function. Pediatric chiropractors should have specific training in how to treat infants and children, so be sure to choose someone with the proper education and experience.
If you have concerns about your child’s specific medical needs or serious health conditions, please consult your pediatrician. But you can always call our office and chat with our staff to help determine if chiropractic care is a good fit for your child and your family.
Why Do Parents Consider Chiropractic Care for Babies?
Many parents seek chiropractic care for their children, often looking for support for the following needs or concerns:
Colic and Fussiness
Colic and non-stop crying can strain any new parent’s nerves. Colic is often used as a catch-all diagnosis that means there is no other way to explain why a baby is fussy or inconsolable.
Frequently, the crying can be a result of musculoskeletal discomfort, tension, and neurologic overwhelm in the infant’s body. Many parents report that pediatric chiropractic adjustments help soothe colicky babies, reducing prolonged periods of crying and discomfort. That’s a win for the whole family!
Feeding Issues
Breastfeeding and chestfeeding difficulties such as trouble latching can leave a new parent feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Often, parents who desire to breastfeed or chestfeed but are having complications feel like they need to quit.
But many times the problem is tension in a baby’s neck or jaw. An adjustment may help relieve the issue, making for a feeding journey that aligns with your goals. Working with our lactation consultant along with these adjustments can make a world of difference for you and your little one.
Sleep Problems
Babies who struggle to settle or wake frequently may develop better sleep patterns with the help of a pediatric chiropractor. By aligning the spine, providers help settle the child’s nervous system to allow for deeper, more consistent sleep cycles.
Digestive Issues
Tummy troubles are not just for adults who indulge in too much wine and cheese. Infants often deal with difficulties such as constipation or acid reflux. Chiropractic adjustments can be a complementary approach to address digestive discomfort in your baby by optimizing the connection between the brain and the nerves connecting to the digestive system.
What to Expect During a Visit to a Pediatric Chiropractor
A typical visit to a pediatric chiropractor starts with a thorough review of your baby’s medical history and any specific concerns you have. The chiropractor will gently assess your baby’s spine and nervous system.
If warranted and with your permission, the provider will perform adjustments using light pressure similar to what you’d use to test the ripeness of a tomato. Many providers will make adjustments while you hold your baby, helping ensure your child feels comfortable and safe.
Sessions are typically brief, and parents often report that their baby remains calm and comfortable throughout. Many babies sleep well right after a treatment as a result of the increased relaxation in their body!
Jewell Is Your Pediatric Chiropractor in Tigard, Oregon
The Jewell team of providers has extensive training and experience in treating folks of all ages, including infants. If you’re wondering if you should take your baby to see a pediatric chiropractor, we invite you to connect with us to learn more about these treatments. We’re happy to answer your questions.
And if you’re ready to claim an appointment for you or your child, you can book online for our Portland, Oregon, or Tigard, Oregon, office. We look forward to seeing you!
