Understanding Paediatric Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care for infants and children is a gentle, non-invasive approach that some parents choose to support their child’s comfort, mobility, and overall well-being. Paediatric chiropractors use techniques tailored to smaller, developing bodies to address specific concerns.
What is Paediatric Chiropractic Care?
Paediatric chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine and neck. Gentle adjustments aim to improve alignment, mobility, and function, addressing issues that may affect a child’s comfort or development.
How Can Chiropractic Care Support My Child?
Parents often seek chiropractic care for their children to address certain concerns. Children grow and develop at different rates. They sit, crawl, and walk, as well other complex developmental stages at different times. There is evidence is still emerging about the benefits of chiropractic care for children but many parents report improvements in the following areas:
- Torticollis (Wry Neck): Torticollis is characterised by a tilted or twisted neck and may result from tight neck muscles or spinal misalignments. Chiropractic care can include gentle adjustments, massage therapy, and stretches to improve neck mobility and reduce muscle tension.
- Head Preference: Babies with torticollis may prefer turning their head to one side, leading to uneven development. Chiropractic adjustments aim to correct spinal alignment and improve range of motion.
- Tense Babies: Birth trauma or prolonged delivery can leave babies tense and uncomfortable. Gentle chiropractic techniques may help release muscular tension, promoting relaxation.
- Latching Problems: Misalignments in the neck or jaw can interfere with an infant’s ability to latch during breastfeeding. Chiropractic adjustments aim to reduce tension and improve feeding mechanics.
- Sleep Problems (Musculoskeletal Causes): Tight muscles or misalignments may disrupt sleep. Chiropractic care focuses on relieving tension, which could help improve sleep quality.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Children?
Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified paediatric chiropractor. Techniques are gentle – often involving light fingertip pressure – and specifically designed for infants and children, prioritising their safety and comfort.
What Happens During a Visit?
During the first visit, the chiropractor will review your child’s health history and assess their spine, neck, and muscles for tension or misalignments. If appropriate, they will use gentle techniques tailored to your child’s needs.
When Might Parents Consider Chiropractic Care?
Parents may consider chiropractic care if their child experiences:
- Torticollis or head preference
- Tension or discomfort after birth
- Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
- Sleep disturbances potentially linked to musculoskeletal discomfort
- Postural concerns or discomfort in the back, neck, or joints
We see babies in the practice and parents report that babies are happy and seem more relaxed when they have been seen by our chiropractor in Stoke on Trent.
Paediatric Fees
Consultation, examination and first treatment – £72
Further treatments – £47
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can my child start seeing a chiropractor?
There’s no set age. Some parents bring babies in within the first few weeks, while others come with older children and teenagers who are dealing with growing pains, posture concerns or discomfort after sport. Every child is assessed individually, and any care plan is adjusted to suit their age and stage of development.
Is chiropractic care safe for babies?
Techniques used with babies and young children are very different to those used with adults. They’re gentle, low force and adapted to a child’s smaller frame. Many parents in Newcastle under Lyme and the wider area choose to have their baby assessed, particularly after a difficult birth or if they seem unsettled, though we’re always happy to talk through any concerns before starting.
What kind of issues do parents usually bring their children in for?
Common reasons include growing pains, postural changes during growth spurts, discomfort linked to sport or heavy school bags, and general unsettled behaviour in younger children. Chiropractic care focuses on the muscles, joints and spine, so it may help support comfort and movement, but it isn’t a treatment for medical conditions and any ongoing symptoms should also be checked by your GP.
Do I need a GP referral for my child to see a chiropractor?
No referral is needed. You can book directly for your child, and if we feel their symptoms would be better looked at by a GP or another healthcare professional first, we’ll always let you know. You’re welcome to book online whenever it suits you.
Do you see children from Stoke on Trent as well as Newcastle under Lyme?
Yes, we see families from right across the area, including Stoke on Trent, Kidsgrove, Wolstanton and Silverdale, as well as Newcastle under Lyme itself. If travelling to Newcastle under Lyme isn’t convenient, our sister clinic, City Chiropractic in Stoke on Trent, is also an option for some families.
How many appointments will my child need?
This depends entirely on your child and what’s brought you in. Some parents come for a one off check, others prefer a short series of visits to monitor progress. After the first assessment, you’ll be given an honest explanation of what, if anything, is recommended, and there’s never any pressure to commit to more than you’re comfortable with.