A chiropractic physician that is trained and certified in chiropractic care for pregnant women and children is referred to as a pediatric chiropractor. These physicians are able to provide certified care to this population of patients and are able to produce favorable health improvement overall. For women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant, chiropractic care can help to promote more regular menstrual cycles and may improve uterine function. These improvements in cycle may have a beneficial effect on women who have had difficulty in becoming pregnant in the past. For women who are pregnant, chiropractic care is an ideal management tool when dealing with low back pain, constipation, lack of sleep issues and more. Studies of first time pregnant women who received chiropractic care throughout their pregnancy reported a reduction in labor time by 24%, 39% for women in their second pregnancy. An additional study found that 50% of women who had received chiropractic care during pregnancy did not require pain medications during their labor and delivery. Overall, 84% of women treated with chiropractic care during pregnancy reported a decrease in back pain.
Pediatric Examination
Children can also benefit from chiropractic treatments. Many parents bring their child to a chiropractic physician because they have heard positive reviews from other parents. It is important to remember that a chiropractor does not treat diseases in children but rather works to improve the function of the nervous system and will address any problems that are present in the musculoskeletal system. A pediatric examination will begin with the chiropractic physician taking a health history from the parent or guardian, if the child is old enough, they may also be able to describe any health issues they are having. Following the health history, the chiropractor will perform a physical examination as well as possibly conducting a neurological exam if necessary. If chiropractic care is indicated for the child, an initial treatment plan may be created. The majority of children respond favorably to the chiropractic treatments, they do not express fear and report little to no discomfort during a spinal manipulation. Parents who have children who receive chiropractic care report that their children experience a greater level of good health while under the care of a chiropractic physician. Children who are involved in physical activities such as sports may also respond in a positive way to chiropractic care as this care can help to correct any dysfunction within the musculoskeletal system and also help to prevent future re-injury.
References Cited in this Article
www.icpa4kids.org
www.chiro.org
Learn more about chiropractic care for children.
