Movement Is Life

Why do children need chiropractic care?

As mentioned, the movement of the spine is required for proper brain function, specifically the coordination of activities such as concentration and learning, emotions, motor control and organ function (including immune organs).

A vertebral subluxation and the subsequent neurological interference are most often created during the birthing process itself. Even the most natural births are somewhat traumatic to the infant and may cause damage. That damage does not necessarily cause any symptoms, but does begin to alter the mechanics of the spine and impair neurological pathways.

Roger Sperry, the recipient of the Nobel Prize in 1982 for his work in brain research, stated the more structurally distorted we are, the less energy we have for metabolism, for healing and for thinking. Decreased stimulation of the brain in childhood has been linked to central motor impairment, developmental impairments, learning disabilities, concentration problems like ADHD, behavioural problems such as violence and increased illnesses such as ear, nose and throat infections, sleeping difficulties and colic.

It should now be obvious why it is so important to ensure every child has properly moving and aligned spine.

When should children first be checked?

We advise that children be checked for vertebral subluxations soon after birth due to the potential damaging effects of all births. In fact, it is a common occurrence for us to be present to check children very soon after both hospital and home births.

Early neuro-spinal check ups and adjustments when necessary help prevent an accumulation of damage from occurring in the child's vital nerve system. It just makes sense to have the spine checked as they grow, develop and constantly adapt to the changes of life. A regular schedule of care is beneficial for all children and adults.

Does it hurt??

Chiropractic adjustments should never hurt. Chiropractors who have a special interest in seeing families use very specific, gentle techniques.

On children, the force is as light as the pressure you could put on your eyeball without causing any discomfort.

For more information on chiropractic care and kids visit the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association website at www.icpa4kids.com.