Children and Chiropractic Care

Summary

• Children may experience common complaints, such as back pain, neck pain and headache.
• The risks associated with chiropractic care and children are incredibly low.
• By taking a holistic approach to care, chiropractors can help support optimal development and growth in children.

Background

Musculoskeletal pain is not just an issue that affects adults, as children can also experience common complaints, such as back pain, neck pain and headache (1, 2). Whether it’s related to poor posture, sports injuries, or other factors, musculoskeletal pain can significantly impact a child’s quality of life. Chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option for children with musculoskeletal pain (3).

Chiropractic care is a form of therapy that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly those affecting the spine. Chiropractic care for children is non-invasive and drug-free. This makes it a safe and natural way to help children achieve optimal health and wellness.

Chiropractic care for children typically involves gentle spinal adjustments, massage, stretching and strengthening exercises which helps restore proper spinal alignment, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility (4). The risks associated with chiropractic care and children are incredibly low (3, 5). Several studies have identified very chiropractic care to be gentle, safe, and effective for a range of common musculoskeletal complaints. It is important to note, however, that chiropractic care is not a substitute for traditional medical care. It should be used in conjunction with medical care to help children achieve optimal health and wellness.

Restore Optimal Posture

Posture refers to the position of the body and the alignment of the various body parts in relation to each other. Poor posture can impact pain, muscle tension, headaches, and decreased range of motion. At the clinic, our practitioners often incorporate postural analysis into our assessments, as poor posture can be a contributing factor to many musculoskeletal disorders. By identifying and addressing postural imbalances, we can help children improve their overall health and reduce the risk of future injuries.

It is also important to identify any abnormal postural developments in children, such as scoliosis or hyper-kyphosis (also known as Scheuermann’s disease). Our practitioners are trained to incorporate appropriate tests and investigations to identify and manage these cases accordingly.

Spinal pain and headache

Spinal pain and headaches are common complaints among children, and chiropractic care can be an effective treatment option for these conditions. Chiropractors are trained to identify and treat musculoskeletal issues that can contribute to spinal pain and headaches, such as poor posture, muscle tension, and spinal irritation (4, 6).

Chiropractic adjustments can help improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate nerve compression, all of which can contribute to spinal pain and headaches. Additionally, at the clinic we recommend stretches and exercises to help improve posture and reduce tension in the neck and back muscles.

Education for parents and families on ergonomics and development

Ergonomic assessment is an important aspect of chiropractic care, as it focuses on optimising the work or study environment, to reduce the risk of musculoskeletal injuries and promote overall health and wellness. At the clinic our practitioners are trained to identify ergonomic issues that may contribute to spinal irritation, muscle tension, and other neuromuscular issues in developing children.

Chiropractic care can play an important role in supporting child development, particularly in the areas of motor development and nervous system function. Our chiropractors are trained to identify and treat neuromuscular issues that can affect a child’s development. Chiropractic adjustments can help improve joint mobility, reduce muscle tension, and alleviate nerve irritation, all of which can contribute to improved motor function and nervous system health. At the clinic, we may also offer advice and support for parents on various aspects of child development, such as nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that can impact a child’s health and wellness. By taking a holistic approach to care, chiropractors can help support optimal development and growth in children.

About the Authors

Isaac Searant completed a Bachelor of Chiropractic Science and Master of Chiropractic at Macquarie University, and is currently enrolled in a Master of Research. His research aims to understand the clinical decisions health practitioners make about diagnostic imaging. His clinical interests include spinal pain (neck and back) and sporting injuries. Regardless of the condition, his goal as a chiropractor is to work collaboratively with patients.

References

1. Aartun E, Hartvigsen J, Wedderkopp N, Hestbaek L. Spinal pain in adolescents: prevalence, incidence, and course: a school-based two-year prospective cohort study in 1,300 Danes aged 11-13. BMC Musculoskelet Disord. 2014;15:187.
2. O’Keeffe M, Kamper SJ, Montgomery L, Williams A, Martiniuk A, Lucas B, et al. Defining Growing Pains: A Scoping Review. Pediatrics. 2022;150(2).
3. French SD, Walker BF, Perle SM. Chiropractic care for children: too much, too little or not enough? Chiropr Osteopat. 2010;18:17.
4. Hestbaek L, Stochkendahl MJ. The evidence base for chiropractic treatment of musculoskeletal conditions in children and adolescents: The emperor’s new suit? Chiropr Osteopat. 2010;18:15.
5. Vohra S, Johnston BC, Cramer K, Humphreys K. Adverse events associated with pediatric spinal manipulation: a systematic review. Pediatrics. 2007;119(1):e275-83.
6. Lynge S, Dissing KB, Vach W, Christensen HW, Hestbaek L. Effectiveness of chiropractic manipulation versus sham manipulation for recurrent headaches in children aged 7-14 years – a randomised clinical trial. Chiropr Man Therap. 2021;29(1):1.