Many parents are now taking their infants to be seen by a Chiropractor, but how can a Chiropractor help an infant?

Research has shown that of 1500 newborns examined at least 90% of them had suffered birth trauma and associated strain through the neck and cranial areas.

Another study examined more than 1000 infants of which 80% of these were experiencing some form of nerve dysfunction. Nerve dysfunction will place stress on the communications system of the body, in particular, the nervous and immune systems.

During pregnancy and labour infants can suffer a subluxation (joint out of place) from a range of factors, some of these are:

Infants can be in an awkward position during the final weeks of pregnancy as the space in the womb becomes more constricted and this can put pressure on their spine.
It is estimated that 27 – 40 kilos of force is applied to the neck and head of an infant during a “normal” delivery. This is a significant amount of force and can cause harm to the spine.
A very long or short labour can increase the chances of a subluxation.
Poor position of the baby’s head and neck during the journey through the birth canal with a vaginal delivery.
Failure of the mother’s cervix to dilate.
The use of drugs to increase strength and duration of contractions.
The use of forceps or vacuum extraction to expedite the delivery of the baby.
Caesarean section delivery.
Cord around the baby’s neck.
Stalled delivery.
Pushing for an extended period.

All of these can contribute to strain and possible subluxation of joints in the spine. A subluxation can interfere with the body’s ability to communicate and function properly. ac

Dr. Barham-Floreani, a chiropractor and authority on paediatric health and holistic parenting, has stated the importance of the body’s systems communicating effectively.

“There is an intricate balance between the immune system, the digestive system and the nervous system. They are incredibly intertwined. We want to make sure the master controller (the nerve system) is working well.”

By removing nerve interference and subsequently improving the body’s ability to send and receive messages, infants that receive chiropractic care often see improvement in;

Babies latch to allow for pain-free breastfeeding for the mother

Reflux
Trapped wind
Issues with blocked ducts and mastitis in the mother
Symptoms of Colic
Sleep
Constipation
Meeting milestones

If your baby is having trouble with any of these issues then a visit to a Chiropractor would be beneficial.

Dr. Anna has completed study in paediatric chiropractic care and her passion is working with infants, children and pregnant mothers. Many parents have brought their newborn to see Dr. Anna and have noticed significant results, more often than not a more settled, happier baby.

Chiropractic care has been proven to be a safe, gentle and effective practice during infancy and childhood. The techniques Dr. Anna uses for infants vary significantly from those used on adult patients and are so gentle many infants are soothed by them.

It is important to remember the role of your chiropractor is not to ‘cure’ health issues but to ‘free-up’ the communication channels, allowing the body to self-regulate and heal.

The bottom line is that chiropractic care is beneficial for infants to receive as soon as possible after birth. It is also recommended that they continue receiving chiropractic care throughout childhood.

Keep an eye out for our next blog about the benefits of children receiving chiropractic care.

References

Barham-Floreani, D. J. (2011, Jan). How do we give babies a great start in life? Retrieved from Well Adjusted Babies: http://welladjusted.co/blog/2011/01/06/how-do-we-give-babies-the-best-start-in-life/

DeCanio, T. (2007, September). Are your kids safe? Retrieved from Pathways to Family Wellness: http://pathwaystofamilywellness.org/Chiropractic/are-your-kids-safe.html

Spinal Research Foundation. (2016, Feb). Advancing the cause: Chiropractic Care and Kids. Retrieved from Australian Spinal Research Foundation: https://spinalresearch.com.au/advancing-the-cause-chiropractic-care-and-kids/