DON’T FORGET KIDS HAVE SPINES TOO
Many spinal dysfunctions seen in adults begin as early as birth. Substantial spinal trauma can occur at birth (often seen as the result of the use of forceps, vacuum extractions, unnecessary labor induction, emergency C-section, dystocia, breech babies, and so on).
As the infant grows, learning to lift the head, sitting, crawling, walking, running, falling down are all activities that have a direct connection with the spine column, the joints and the muscles around the body, therefore it is important to have the child examined by a Doctor of Chiropractic. As a professional with deep understanding of the neuromusculoskeletal system (NMSK), a chiropractor is able to assess, diagnose and treat many NMSK-related dysfunctions. The proper function of the NMSK system is essential for a overall health and wellbeing, and it might help you achieve a painless, drug-free, and happy life.
As the older child starts being involved in regular childhood activities (such as running, biking, playing hockey), subtle yet significant NMSK dysfunctions may occur. At school age the child starts carrying backpacks (which, by the way, is incorrect in most cases), which tends to be heavier and heavier overtime. If neglected, the spinal injuries during this period of rapid growth may cause more serious problems later in life. Unnoticeable trauma during the course of childhood might affect the development of the spine, joints, muscles and ultimately the nervous system, which can result in pain, dysfunction, and other negative consequences.
PEDIATRIC CHIROPRACTIC
Pediatric chiropractors are doctors of chiropractic who obtain a postgraduate chiropractic education pertaining to the care of children and pregnant women. The postgraduate program is designed to expand professional ability in adjusting techniques, evaluation and assessment of different stages of development: from pregnancy, birth, infancy throughout childhood.
It is important to understand that the Doctor of Chiropractic is trained and skilled to evaluate, diagnose and treat NMSK-related dysfunctions. The pediatrics chiropractor’s role is to examine the child’s spine for deficiencies that potentially impair the NMSK system, therefore affecting overall body function.
SAFE AND GENTLE
It is also very important to highlight that the pediatric chiropractic treatment is safe and gentle. The special training provides the doctor of chiropractic the ability to apply the proper and distinguished techniques designed for the pediatric population.
THE NMSK SYSTEM IN A NUTSHELL
The neuromusculoskeletal (NMSK) system is made up of the bones of the skeleton, muscles, tendons, joints, ligaments, cartilages, and the nerves serving them. Its main role is to provide structure, support, stability, and movement to the body.
The spine (formed by 33 vertebrae that interlock with each other) houses and protects the spinal cord. The spinal cord is an extension of the brain and its function is to make a neurological connection between the brain and the rest of the body (like arms and legs), carrying information from the brain to the body parts and back to the brain again through the peripheral nerves (which exit the spinal cord through a space in between the vertebrae). Dysfunctions of the spine (eg. disc herniation, poor posture, trauma) often interfere with those nerves’ ability to transmit information.
Regular chiropractic checkups can identify NMSK dysfunctions and impairments, start the proper treatment (hopefully early enough to avoid major problems), and help to prevent many chronic conditions.
Dr. D. Muller, BSc, DC, Webster Certified, ICPA Member