Many people assume that chiropractors are simply back pain specialists for adults. And while this is true to some degree, chiropractors are much more than that. In reality, what chiropractors do is correct subluxations, regardless of age of the patient.
By definition, subluxations are areas of disruption to the nervous system caused by stress from the spinal region. Chiropractors adjust your back so that your spine is more aligned; when your spine is properly aligned, the rest of your body can function more efficiently. One of the most common causes of subluxation is the birthing process – because of this, there has been a significant push chiropractic professionals in recent years on the importance of chiropractic care for infants.
One of the most frequently voiced concerns from chiropractors is the position of women during the common birthing process. Women are typically on their back which means they are partially working against gravity during delivery. Because of this, the delivery doctor must assist the baby out of the birth canal. When the baby is being guided through the birth canal, the delivery doctor may need to lightly pull and twist the baby to help progress its birth.
The twisting and pulling can cause minor to severe subluxations in babies, which can lead to serious health issues, some of which are not readily apparent. There have been documented instances of immediate and tragic results, such as brain swelling and bleeding, neurological impairments, brain stem injuries, and spinal cord damage. Other outcomes may not surface right away, sometimes even years later.
Because subluxations are very difficult to recognize at first glance, it is imperative to have newborns checked by a chiropractor. Examining a baby’s spine is quick, painless, and easy, and does not require any machines. Chiropractors know how to spot subluxations and will communicate with parents on what they recommend for treatment if subluxations are found.
In order for babies to develop properly, both physically and psychologically, it is vital that their nervous systems are not hindered by unaligned spines. Even after a newborn’s spine is properly aligned and subluxations are corrected, it is recommended that they continue to visit a chiropractor as they age into adolescence. Because children jump, run, fall, and experience a variety of other bodily stressors, it’s important that their spines are checked periodically to ensure that they remain properly aligned. Scientific studies have determined that children grow and develop the most between ages 2 and 5, so it’s essential to have their spines checked often during these years of significant growth.
If you have questions regarding infant and adolescent chiropractic care, please call us at (702) 597-1181. We would love to answer any questions you have about subluxations in newborns and the importance of chiropractic care for children.