Why Kids Need Chiropractic Care, Too

Spinal issues only happen as we get older, right? Well, we may not notice the effects of a fall or injury when we're young but it's the accumulation of all of those incidents that lead to spinal issues when we are older.

If we leave all of our injuries without checking to make sure that the body is healing okay, we can end up with small, lasting effect from each one until one day all of those little effects become one big painful problem.

What Is The Effect Of Unchecked Injuries Long Term?

A vertebral subluxation is condition where a spinal joint has altered alignment, movement, or function, resulting in a breakdown in communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

A subluxation is often caused by stress from external interferences. While children and teenagers experience different forms of stress than adults, it doesn't mean that their nervous system is magically unaffected by physical, chemical or emotional stress.

In fact, subluxation may be more overwhelming to a baby or kid’s developing nervous system over time, which may result in problems with growth and development if left untreated.

When Should I Bring My Child To The Chiropractor?

In the decade plus experience of Dr. Ariel Thorpe, DC, expat chiropractor in Tokyo, clients often come in for chiropractic care and adjustments as a last resort. Issues like limited range of movement or faulty neurological function come from years of unchecked subluxations that become far more difficult to care for as we age.

Every parent knows how important their kids' health is and getting them checked for major spinal issues like scoliosis or bad posture. This is the only way to ensure optimal future health for our children. The nervous system is fundamental to growth and development in our youth. The sooner the better to get your kids' spines and nervous systems checked. Especially after a traumatic event - even birth! - delaying a check up can allow the issue to fester.

What Else Can I Do To Help My Child Develop A Strong Brain & Nervous System?

Here are some good tips and habits from this whole family chiropractor in Tokyo:

1. From birth, many of us endure physical stress. The trauma linked to the birth process can cause significant injuries to an infant's spine, potentially leading to subluxation if not addressed. The optimal time to schedule a visit with a pediatric chiropractor is immediately after birth. Pediatric chiropractic adjustments (when necessary and performed only by a licensed chiropractor) are entirely safe. The pressure applied during spinal adjustments on infants is similar to the gentle pressure you use when touching your eye with a finger.

2. When children start learning to move independently, they might tumble. Even small falls can lead to compensations and restrictions in the spine. Thus, visiting a chiropractor is crucial to identify problem areas that might not be visible and to prevent more serious issues from developing in the future.

3. In today's digital era, devices such as iPads, laptops, and smartphones are increasingly common in children's lives. It's important to teach them about maintaining a neutral and correct sitting posture and avoiding excessive neck bending while using these gadgets. For further guidance or assistance, consider consulting a chiropractor.

4. Pay close attention to sports injuries or growing pains. If not properly rehabbed, sports injuries may lead to serious compensations in the spine, pelvis or shoulders down the line. Any neck, head or spinal traumas must be followed up with a chiropractor.

5. Even in a high-pressure setting like Tokyo, adults often underestimate the amount of emotional stress children experience. From current events to school pressure, children experience stress on a daily basis. For many, emotional stresses will result in subluxations and may eventually lead the body into a permanent stress response, severely affecting development, the immune system and growth.

   
   

At Electra Chiropractic, we know that a healthy lifestyle should include getting checked regularly by your chiropractor, breaking bad lifestyle habits, and getting good sleep, exercise, and nutrition. Chiropractic care and early development of good habits help to ensure your child’s overall quality of life and optimal levels of function, strength and health.

Electra Chiropractic offers chiropractic care from the only native English speaking chiropractor in Tokyo who is licensed and registered in Japan, Hong Kong, and the USA. Online booking is available now!