A research study checking 1500 newborns between 24 hours and 5 days following birth found that at least 90% of babies are born with subluxations (dysfunctional spinal segments) affecting the nerves in the upper neck and cranial (skull) bones.
Birth as a cause of strain in an infant’s neck and cranial bones is extremely under-reported and therefore an unaddressed issue. We encourage families to have their newborn checked as soon as possible by a chiropractor so their little one’s nerve system is able function at its best.
During the first 5 years of life, a child’s spine undergoes enormous growth and change. When a baby is born their spine is shaped like a C. As they learn to hold their head up against gravity for the first time the curve in the neck is developed and changed. Once crawling and walking the second spinal curve develops in the lower back.
If you have ever watched a child learning to walk you will understand the countless falls and trips they have whilst learning to control and coordinate their balance. It is estimated that before the age of 7 a child will fall 2500 times. That’s a fair few right!!
Because of all this rapid change, growth and neurological development, childhood is the best time to encourage spinal wellness checks to maximise nerve system function.
Chiropractors are trained to specifically and gently check and adjust newborns and children. Techniques used for babies and children are vastly different to the way an adult is checked and adjusted.
The pressure used to adjust a newborn or child is a light fingertip contact about the same amount you would use to check the ripeness of an avocado.
Checking children and ensuring their nerve system is functioning at its optimal level is the greatest gift we can give and helps set them up for a life of health and wellbeing.
5 reasons parents use chiropractic care to support their children’s health and wellbeing:
- To encourage good neural plasticity (brain and nerve development) and improve learning and concentration
- Support optimal nerve communication throughout the body, promoting health and wellness
- Support the nerve system’s link with immunity and digestive function
- To help with breastfeeding challenges and issues with colic
- Support the development of spinal curves, muscle function and body balance so children can adapt to the impact the modern world has on our bodies
To book your child in for their first spinal wellness check you can call us on +64 9 360 0280 or book online.
If you would like help finding a chiropractor in your local area please also do not hesitate to reach out; we would love to help connect you with someone fantastic.
Dr Jessica François – Chiropractor,
Flourish Chiropractic,
3/29 Surrey Crescent,
Grey Lynn, Auckland
+64 9 360 0280
References
Barham-Floreani, J. (2009). Well adjusted babies. 2nd ed. [Melbourne, Vic.]: Vitality Productions, pp.256, 260,452,503,505.506,510.
Miller JE, e. (2019). Efficacy of chiropractic manual therapy on infant colic: a pragmatic single-blind, randomized controlled trial. – PubMed – NCBI. [online] Ncbi.nlm.nih.gov. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23158465 [Accessed 19 Sep. 2019].
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