Children should be checked for vertebral subluxation because they often engage in vigorous play and sports activities that can cause damage to the spinal vertebrae. In addition, genetic factors and the birth process can cause pre-existing problems that make subluxation more likely.
Chiropractic evaluation and treatment can help children to enjoy better physical function and greater physical well-being. Pediatric chiropractic methods are safe and effective in managing common subluxation problems that occur in children. In addition, chiropractic care for children can help to improve nerve function and immune system function for better general health.
What is vertebral subluxation?
A vertebral subluxation is defined as a partial dislocation of the bones that make up the spinal column. These bones are stacked on top of each other, with gel-like pads that act as shock absorbers during movement. Connected to these bones is a series of facet joints, tendons, ligaments and nerves.
Importance of chiropractic care for children
Chiropractic care can be a beneficial health practice for children, who are often prone to growing pains and physical discomfort from play actions and sports activities. Regular chiropractic adjustment realigns the body for optimum physical function.
The birth process and spinal subluxation
In some cases, the birth process itself can put severe stress on the spinal column of the newborn. Although the spinal column is highly malleable at this stage of development, a difficult birth can lead to process that only show up later in childhood, when kids begin to become more physically active.
Impact of the birthing process on the spinal cord and potential for subluxation
The birth process involves strong contractions of the uterus to move the infant through the birth canal. This process can involve compression and twisting movements of the infant that can have an effect on the delicate spinal structures that are very malleable at this stage.
Importance of spinal checks for newborns and children
Early spinal evaluations can help to detect early problems with vertebrae that can affect muscle function, posture and effective movement. Manual adjustment, physical therapy and other methods can then be administered to ensure children continue their normal development with greater comfort and more efficient mobility.
The role of pediatric chiropractors
Pediatric chiropractors can help children maximize their physical function, enjoy greater physical comfort in their daily activities and ensure that minor problems don’t become more serious issues that affect their mobility.
Specialized care for children and infants
Infants and children have special needs in regard to their developing musculoskeletal systems. Bones are not yet fully grown. Joints are more flexible and prone to injury. Pediatric chiropractic takes these differences into account and provides gentler, targeted treatment that helps to resolve issues that may occur in growing bodies.
Gentle adjustments and care for children
For children, chiropractors use gentler techniques with a lighter touch to accommodate the needs of their still-developing bodies.
The importance of regular chiropractic examinations for children
Children’s bodies develop quickly, and what might not be a problem at an earlier stage can become more serious as the child grows. Regular chiropractic examinations ensure that any minor problems can be addressed before they impact function in daily life.
Identifying and addressing spinal subluxations in children
Pediatric chiropractors will do physical examination and x-ray of the spine to detect spinal subluxations in children at various stages of their growth.
Benefits of chiropractic care for children
Chiropractic care for children offers a number of benefits, not only for the musculoskeletal system, but also for immune system function, mood, improved sleep and better concentration.
May help relieve pain associated with common childhood musculoskeletal issues like scoliosis, torticollis, or hip dysplasia. Gentle chiropractic adjustments may help improve alignment and mobility.
Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine develops abnormally, creating a curve that can affect normal function. Torticollis is condition in which neck muscles become unbalanced, leading to twisting of the neck into an abnormal position. Hip dysplasia is an abnormality of the hip joint that can lead to instability and sometimes dislocation. Chiropractic care helps to stabilize these problems in children.
May help with colic, ear infections, asthma, allergies, bedwetting, and digestive issues. Some studies suggest spinal manipulation can influence nervous system function and reduce inflammation.
Chiropractic is a “whole body” healing technique that focuses on the overall function of the spinal system and how it supports a variety of body processes. It can help to foster better circulation and nerve function for a number of systems in the body and can improve general health.
May support healthy development. Some chiropractors believe regular adjustments help ensure proper nerve supply and function for developing tissues and organs.
When the body functions correctly, movement is more efficient. Blood flow throughout the body is increased, and nerve function is facilitated. These effects can ensure proper development of tissues and organs for growing children.
May boost immunity and prevent illness. Some research has linked chiropractic adjustments to improved immune system function.
A number of studies find that chiropractic care has a measurable effect on immune system function and can help patients fight off illness.
May improve posture and spinal health over time. Gentle adjustments could help train and strengthen muscles to support proper spinal alignment.
Chiropractic adjustment gives children a greater awareness and understanding of spinal function and can help them develop better posture and function.
May increase range of motion and flexibility. Adjustments combined with stretching and exercises may allow more mobility.
Proper spinal function facilitates greater comfort during movement and improves both flexibility and range of motion. Your chiropractor may employ a variety of techniques, including corrective exercises to strengthen muscles that support the spine
May help with recovery from injury or trauma. Adjustments may aid healing after accidents, falls, and repetitive stress injuries.
Chiropractic methods increase blood flow and the production of natural healing biochemicals, which can help with recovery from minor subluxations and soft tissue injuries in children.
Provides relaxation and comfort. Gentle touch and movement can soothe and calm some children.
Touch therapy in itself has a beneficial effect on the body, especially in children who respond well to hands-on methods of care.
May reduce need for medication or surgery. Conservative care may help avoid invasive approaches for some musculoskeletal conditions.
Chiropractic care is an alternative medical treatment that is recognized as an effective alternative to more intensive options. Chiropractic does not require invasive surgery, long recovery periods or strong medications, which makes is a good option for children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is subluxation common in children?
Children’s bodies grow fast, and they are rarely aware of the postural positions they hold themselves in during their studies, play activities and sports events. As a result, they may sustain micro-injuries that affect their function and lead to discomfort.
Can children get subluxations?
Yes, children can get subluxation of the vertebrae of the spine. Although the spinal bones and joints are very flexible during the growing years, children often engage in vigorous play that puts maximum strain on structures in the spine.
What are the complications of vertebral subluxation?
Vertebral subluxations tend to cause additional symptoms over time, due to muscles attempting to compensate for misaligned function, nerve compression, weakness, tingling, numbness in extremities, headaches and other symptoms.
What are the problems with subluxation?
Subluxations cause poor function, muscle fatigue, pain, pinched nerves and weakness in supporting muscles.
What is subluxation in childhood?
In childhood, subluxation is a misalignment of the vertebrae of the spine, which can lead to weakness, poor function and nerve problems.
What happens if you don’t treat a subluxation?
Subluxations can worsen if not given appropriate treatment. The misalignments can begin to affect normal function of the body.
What are the three causes of subluxation?
The three most common causes of subluxation are impacts from accidents or sport injuries, poor posture from holding the body in awkward positions and degenerative conditions from repetitive motions, aging or disease.
How often should a person be checked for subluxations?
A yearly visit to your chiropractor will reveal any problems that have developed in regard to subluxation of the spinal vertebrae. If the individual has had problems in the past, more frequent checkups may be needed.
What is the most common dislocation in children?
Shoulder dislocation is very common in children, who often engage in rough activities that put strain on the shoulder joint for games and group play.
Why is shoulder instability common in children?
Shoulder instability is a common problem in children because their bones and joints are still developing and have not yet stabilized. In addition, children often engage in rough play and sports that put severe strain on developing joints.
Can vertebral subluxation be cured?
Yes, subluxations can be corrected, so that they do not lead to later problems with movement and comfort.
How serious is subluxation of the spine?
A vertebral subluxation can be minor, or it can be severe. In some cases, subluxation of the spinal vertebrae can cause increasing problems with movement, nerve issues and chronic discomfort.
What is the best treatment for subluxation?
Manual adjustment of the spinal structures helps to realign vertebrae and facilitate better movement.
What type of doctor treats subluxation?
Chiropractors work with vertebral subluxations in their practice on a regular basis. Though trained in pediatric techniques help children with common spinal subluxations.
Is subluxation good or bad?
Subluxation is generally a bad development because it signals a misalignment of the spinal column that is the basis for all effective movement of the body. For some children, it can indicate an abnormality in the development of the bones of the spine, which can cause discomfort and poor function during normal activities.
