Many parents are curious about how chiropractic adjustments might support their baby’s sleep, digestion, and development, but are also curious about what to expect at a treatment, what can it be helpful for, and ultimately, is it SAFE?
At Roots to Branches Whole Health Clinic, Dr. Shannon Gow DC, is here to set the record straight. In this article, she’ll debunk the biggest myths about infant chiropractic care and share some facts about its gentle, effective benefits. If you’ve ever wondered whether chiropractic care is safe for babies, read on to learn more.
Chiropractic Care for Babies: True or False?
????️ A baby has to be at least 6 weeks old to be seen?
❌FALSE. There are many wonderful benefits to chiropractic care following birth. There can be muscular tension resulting from labour and delivery. Tension can be present whether the baby was born via vaginal delivery or cesarean. The youngest patient I have personally seen in the clinic was two days old. I adjusted my daughter within hours of her delivery as well.
????️ A pediatric chiropractic appointment will always involve “cracking”
❌FALSE. Pediatric care, specifically for infants, is very gentle. If you compare the movements to what is required for an adult adjustment, they are vastly different. Not all pediatric patients get adjusted, as some treatments will just include gentle stretching. If an adjustment is deemed necessary, it is performed with fingertip pressure.
????️ The pressure used for treatment is like checking an avocado for ripeness at the store
✔️TRUE. Muscle work is not like getting muscles released as an adult. Minor fingertip pressure is used to assess, treat and adjust babies. Some babies even sleep through their treatment. Think about picking up an avocado to check for ripeness or checking the firmness of a tomato. Babies do not need a high amount of force.
????️ The chiropractor can help other areas outside of the spine.
✔️TRUE. There are a variety ofl benefits associated with chiropractic care for babies. The chiropractor can help tackle conditions that involve the spine, like torticollis, but there are a variety of conditions that can benefit from this care. These include tackling shoulder dystocia, issues with sleeping, gassiness/colic, reflux, or support following a tongue tie release.
????️ After a tongue tie is revised, no more needs to be done
❌FALSE. If your baby has a tongue tie that has been released, there are many benefits to stretching the tissue and doing other body work as well. Tethered oral tissues are associated with muscle tension in the neck, shoulders and back, and can even present along with conditions like torticollis. The chiropractor can help your baby decrease this tension.
????️ Chiropractic care is safe and gentle
✔️TRUE. Chiropractic care for babies is a low-force technique. There is minimal pressure put on your new family member. Gentle stretches and muscle release help to increase their overall range of motion, and can help with several conditions.
If you are unsure whether chiropractic care is a good fit for you or your family, feel free to reach out. Let’s get your little one feeling their best!
Book an appointment with one of our Chiropractors HERE
Meet the rest of our team HERE
READ MORE!
Are Everyday Chemicals Affecting Your Hormones? What You Should Know
You're doing so many things right. You're eating well, moving your body, managing your stress. But what if some of the products sitting on your bathroom shelf, or the plastic container holding your lunch, were quietly working against your hormonal health? Before you...
The Gut-Brain Connection: How Your Gut Affects Mental Health
Did you know that your gut and your brain are constantly talking to each other? It's true, and this month, as we shine a light on mental health, we want to share something that might just change the way you think about what's on your plate. The Gut-Brain Connection:...
From PCOS to PMOS: The Name Change That Could Improve Your Care
If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) — or if you have ever wondered whether your symptoms could be related to a hormone condition — this update is for you. Scientists and doctors from around the world have...
Do You Really Need to Quit Coffee? What Your Body Might Be Telling You
You love your coffee. Honestly… same. It’s a warm and grounding little ritual in the morning to start your day — it can be considered one of life’s simple pleasures. But, recently, somewhere along the way, coffee has become labelled as “the problem.” Because...
Perimenopause and Alcohol: Why It Hits Harder Than It Used To
Why Your Holiday Glass of Wine Hits… Differently Now The holidays are here — the season of sparkling lights, cozy gatherings, and just one more festive glass of wine because your friend is having one and it feels rude to say no. But maybe you’ve noticed something...
5 Practical Tips to Protect Your Peace During Holiday Family Time
As the holidays approach, many people notice their stress levels rising. Along with the fun parts of the season, there can be pressure, old family roles and dynamics, and a sense of needing to keep everyone happy. If you feel pulled in too many directions this time of...
Perimenopause and Intermittent Fasting: The Truth Behind the Trend
Still wondering if you should be intermittent fasting as a perimenopausal woman? Let’s be honest… Most women don’t wake up one day thinking, “You know what sounds fun? Fasting!” It usually starts with frustration. You notice your body changing in ways that don’t feel...
Postpartum Recovery: 5 Truths Every New Mama Deserves to Know (Plus Helpful Tips to Support You)
Let’s set the record straight—postpartum recovery is no joke. Whether you had a smooth birth or a bumpy ride, welcoming a baby into the world is a full-body, full-heart, full-soul experience. And yet, somehow, new moms are still expected to “bounce back” in six weeks?...
The Stress-Sleep Connection: What’s Really Keeping You Up at Night
Ever lie awake at 3 AM staring at the ceiling, wondering why on earth your brain won’t just shut off? You’re tired. Your body wants to sleep. But your thoughts? Racing. That’s not just “overthinking”—it could be your HPA axis calling the shots. Let’s break this down....
Tired All the Time? 5 Overlooked Causes
Do you feel like no matter how much sleep you get, you’re still exhausted? That you're reaching for a second cup of coffee or a sugary treat to boost your energy mid-day? Fatigue is one of the most common complaints we hear from women, and it’s not something we need...