Do children need chiropractic care? Yes, some do. It is rare for anyone to have perfect spinal alignment, even kids. And with their natural tendency for active play, children are more likely to sustain injuries, both known and unknown, that could throw their spine out of alignment.
Of course a healthy back and spine are important for your physical health, but spinal alignment is at the heart of the nervous system. The nervous system connects all of the systems of the body. When your spine is out of alignment, the rest of your body is also out of balance. Chiropractic treatment realigns the spine for improved nervous system function, which in turn improves the rest of the body.
Benefits of Chiropractic Treatment for Kids
Children can get many benefits from chiropractic care, such as:
Immune System Boost
The nervous system has been known to affect the immune system. Chiropractic treatment for kids gives their immune system a boost so that they are better able to fight off illnesses. They will get sick less often and take fewer sick days from school.
Brain Development
Spinal alignment is directly related to brain function and development. Children’s brains are constantly developing and chiropractic care promotes healthy brain development and growth. Children with attention issues like those with ADHD have experienced improved focus while under chiropractic care.
Improved Behavior
Spinal alignment promotes a calm nervous system. Children with a calm, healthy nervous system will exhibit fewer behavior problems. Chiropractic care can improve the behavior of children with ADHD, as well as reduce anxiety and depression. When a child feels better, it shows in their mood and demeanor.
Better Sleep
Sleep is a crucial element of good health. Chiropractic care can help children sleep better at night by relieving pressure or pain from spinal misalignment. Your children may even fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and get better quality sleep each night. A related issue that chiropractic care can improve is nighttime bedwetting.
Respiratory Improvement
For children with respiratory issues like asthma and severe allergies, chiropractic treatment can improve breathing by realigning the spine, which in turn improves posture. Good posture improves breathing and circulation, both of which are important for respiratory health.
Digestive Health
A lesser-known fact is that the nervous system affects the digestive system. You may know that nervousness and anxiety can often cause negative digestive symptoms. Chiropractic treatment relaxes the nervous system and improves digestive function.
Infant Development
Even infants can benefit from chiropractic treatment. Babies’ spines are delicate and can be easily thrown out of alignment from coming through the birth canal and sleeping at an angle in carseats. Chiropractic care for babies can cure or reduce colic and help with breastfeeding issues like latching.
Dispelling the Myths About Chiropractic Treatment
There are many chiropractic myths that may make you hesitate to consider this option for your child. Some people think only adults with bad backs should see a chiropractor. While back problems and pain are one reason some adults begin chiropractic treatment, there are still many benefits for children (listed above). Another myth is that chiropractic adjustments are painful, while in actuality they serve to relieve pain rather than cause it.
Don’t let these myths prevent you from giving your child the many benefits of chiropractic treatment.
Kim Chiropractic and Rehab Provides Chiropractic for Children
If you’re looking for pediatric chiropractic services, Kim Chiropractic sees patients of all ages. Our chiropractic team is trained and skilled in providing individualized treatment for children as well as adults. At Kim Chiropractic, we believe in the power of a healthy nervous system to regulate the other systems of the body for overall health and wellness.
Contact us at one of our 4 convenient locations today to schedule a consultation:
Rockville Clinic: 301-881-1000
Centreville Clinic: 410-715-3500
Columbia Clinic:703-815-2300
MRI Center: 410-740-0733
