The benefits of chiropractic care for babies
Why chiropractic care for babies?
Babies grow and develop at an incredibly fast pace in their first years of life. This period is therefore crucial for building a strong and healthy body, one they will need for the rest of their lives. By investing in your baby's health at this very stage, you give them a head start that will benefit them for the rest of their lives. Chiropractic care for babies is a non-invasive and natural approach to healthcare that contributes to your baby's well-being. When performed by a qualified paediatric chiropractor, chiropractic care can have the following benefits, among others:
Improved sleep: Chiropractic adjustments can help improve babies' sleep patterns, resulting in better rest for both baby and parents.
Better digestion: Chiropractic can help regulate babies' digestion, which can reduce problems such as reflux and constipation.
Colic/'cry baby': Some babies suffer from colic, which leads to incessant crying and discomfort. This therefore poses a great challenge to both the baby and the parents. Chiropractic care can reduce colic symptoms by calming the nervous system.
Relief from earache: Some babies experience ear pain due to poor drainage in the ears. A chiropractor can help improve ear function and reduce ear pain. Chiropractic care can also help prevent infections in the ears.
Improved immunity: Chiropractic care can strengthen babies' immune systems, making them more resistant to infections and diseases.
In addition, chiropractic care can support developmental milestones (such as rolling over, sitting, crawling), postural problems and improve overall health. It is important to note that chiropractic care for babies should be performed by a specially trained chiropractor with experience in treating children. At The Family Chiropractor, all chiropractors have received additional education regarding babies and children.
In what situations is chiropractic specifically very important for babies?
While chiropractic care can have benefits for all babies, it can specifically be extra beneficial in certain situations:
Birth trauma: Babies who experienced a difficult or traumatic birth, such as because forceps or vacuum extraction were used, or a challenging delivery, may benefit from chiropractic care to address any musculoskeletal issues or spinal misalignment.
Cesarean section: Babies born via caesarean section may benefit extra from chiropractic care. The birth process is different from vaginal delivery, and babies born via caesarean section may experience compression and tension during delivery. Chiropractic care can help reduce this tension in the body.
Feeding problems: Babies who have difficulty with breastfeeding (e.g. docking or sucking) may benefit from chiropractic care. Correcting any misalignments of the spine can improve the ability to drink properly.
Colic and digestive problems: Babies with colic, acid reflux or other digestive problems can find relief through chiropractic care. Proper alignment can help the digestive system function more smoothly.
Sleep disorders: Babies with sleep disorders or babies who have problems resting can adopt improved sleep patterns after chiropractic adjustments.
Developmental delays: Chiropractors are often called in for babies who may have developmental delays or problems with motor milestones. Chiropractic care can ensure that the nervous system functions optimally, allowing a baby to take the (literal and figurative) step of rolling, crawling or sitting, for example.
General welfare: Chiropractic care can promote babies' overall well-being, even if there are no specific problems. It can help with relaxation, comfort and the development of a strong immune system.
It is essential in caring for babies that adjustments are performed by a qualified paediatric chiropractor experienced in treating babies. Pediatric chiropractors use gentle, specialised techniques tailored to the size and specific needs of the baby. At The Family Chiropractor, all chiropractors have received additional education regarding babies and children, and the practice is fully equipped to accommodate children in a safe and relaxed environment.
