Chiropractic for Kids

“As the twig is bent, so grows the tree.”

 

The curves of our spine are developed in the first year of our life. Failure to develop these curves properly may put undue stress on a child’s spine.

To assist healthy development of your child’s spine Shirley Rd Chiropractic and the Chiropractors’ Association of Australia makes the following recommendations:

Encourage your child to crawl

 

This helps to develop their brain and coordination and also develops the muscles in their low back that contribute to their good spinal curves.

Don’t encourage your child to walk too early

 

This may inhibit the amount of crawling your child does and place unnecessary stress on their developing spine. “Baby-walkers” are not a good idea for the health of their spine and also have an unsafe aspect.

Avoid using vertical baby pouches while your child is still unable to stand

Their spines are unable to take vertical loads as the muscles, coordination and strength are yet to develop. It is thought that these pouches may increase the risk of a stress fracture that can develop in the lower spine. The African-style horizontal sling is a better idea.

Key development ages that children should be evaluated for spinal joint dysfunction and development progress:

• 6 weeks
• 3 months
• 4-5 months
• 6 months
• 9 months
• 12 months
• 15 months
• 18 months
• 24 months
• Every 6 months thereafter until school entry.¹

Marianne Hermsen-van Wanrooy has written an excellent guide to the healthy physical development of your newborn to 18 month old. With easy to read text, many pictures and a "What to do" and "What not to do" section in each chapter, it is a must for new parents. Baby Moves is available at both practices.

Being our best as an adult is largely shaped during childhood.

While many parents bring their children in when they are suffering from colic, bed-wetting, asthma and glue ear it is important to realise that we are not treating their symptoms. As chiropractors we check on spinal function and correct underlying mechanical issues.

At Shirley Rd Chiropractic we have undertaken further study into Chiropractic Paediatrics so that we are able to further help children be their best.

References