Gentle Chiropractic Care for Children and Infants
Pediatric chiropractic care offers gentle, safe, and effective treatment for children from infancy through adolescence. Just as adults benefit from optimal spinal alignment, children's developing bodies can benefit from chiropractic care to support healthy growth, nervous system development, and overall wellness.
Pediatric chiropractors use specialized training and gentle techniques appropriate for children's developing spines. The pressure used on an infant is similar to what you'd use to test the ripeness of a tomato – extremely light and gentle. Chiropractic care can address issues ranging from colic and ear infections in infants to sports injuries and posture problems in older children.
What to Expect
Pediatric chiropractic visits are child-friendly and often incorporate play. For infants, the chiropractor will perform a gentle evaluation of spinal alignment, cranial symmetry, and muscle tone. Adjustments use light fingertip pressure – babies often sleep through their appointments.
For older children, the chiropractor will assess posture, gait, and spinal alignment, and may watch them perform movements or activities. Treatment is always adapted to the child's age, size, and comfort level. Many children find adjustments relaxing and even enjoy their visits.
Benefits of Treatment
- Support for healthy development
- Relief from colic and digestive issues
- Improved sleep patterns
- Reduced ear infections
- Better immune function
- Improved posture
- Enhanced athletic performance
- Drug-free approach to common childhood issues
Treatment Approaches
- Gentle spinal adjustments
- Cranial techniques
- Soft tissue work
- Postural exercises
- Nutritional guidance
- Developmental milestone support
- Sports injury treatment
- Preventive wellness care
Cost & Insurance
Pediatric chiropractic care typically costs $40-$80 per session, often less than adult chiropractic visits. Initial consultations range from $75-$150. Many insurance plans cover pediatric chiropractic care, though coverage varies. Some practitioners offer family packages or reduced rates for multiple children. Frequency depends on the condition being addressed – wellness care might be monthly while acute issues may require weekly visits initially.
When to Seek Care
Consider pediatric chiropractic care if your child experiences: colic or excessive crying (infants), torticollis or favoring one side (infants), frequent ear infections, persistent constipation, difficulty latching or breastfeeding, head shape concerns, poor posture or "text neck" (older children), sports injuries, growing pains, or if you want to support their overall wellness and development.