Supporting Children’s Health and Wellbeing
Chiropractors are trained to care for people of all ages, including infants and children. Paediatric chiropractic care takes a person-centred approach, focusing on each child’s unique health needs and developmental stage. Whether your child is an infant experiencing musculoskeletal (MSK) discomfort, a toddler with developmental concerns, or an older child with postural issues like scoliosis, chiropractors are equipped to provide gentle, safe, and effective care tailored to their individual needs.
The chiropractic profession also has a dedicated specialist faculty for paediatrics, The Paediatrics Faculty of the Royal College of Chiropractors, which focuses on promoting high standards of postgraduate training in the care for children and infants. This specialist faculty ensures that chiropractors working with younger patients are well-supported through evidence-based education and training.
Why Chiropractic Care for Children and Babies?
Children, including babies, are constantly growing and developing, which can sometimes lead to MSK imbalances or discomfort. Chiropractors use gentle techniques specifically designed for babies and children to assess and treat common issues such as poor posture, scoliosis, or discomfort resulting from developmental or birth-related stress. Chiropractors also recognise the unique differences between weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing children, ensuring that care is suited to their developmental stage. These gentle treatments ensure that even the youngest patients receive appropriate care, helping them grow and develop healthily.
Post-Birth Care for Mothers and Infants
The post-birth period can be a stressful time for both mother and baby. The physical strain of childbirth, along with the demands of caring for a newborn, can lead to discomfort and tension for both. Chiropractic care is here to support both mother and infant, helping them function more optimally during this precious time. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can relieve tension in the baby’s MSK system, while also providing relief to the mother from post-birth discomfort. This helps both mother and child enjoy those precious early years with greater ease and comfort.
A Holistic, Personalised Approach to Care
Chiropractors work within a patient-centred care model, focusing on the whole child rather than just their symptoms. This approach is essential in paediatric care, where gentle, non-invasive treatments are used to support healthy growth and development. Chiropractic care is personalised to your child’s age, needs, and health goals, whether it’s addressing scoliosis, promoting better posture, or supporting healthy MSK development from infancy onwards.
The early years of life are critical for growth and development. Early intervention through chiropractic care can help address MSK issues before they become long-term concerns. Chiropractors are trained to use safe, gentle techniques to assess and treat babies, helping to alleviate discomfort from birth or developmental factors. For older children, chiropractic care can manage issues such as scoliosis, sports injuries, and posture-related problems. Ongoing care supports the child’s overall wellbeing and development, ensuring their MSK system develops optimally as they grow.
Patient-Centred Care
Chiropractic care for children not only helps manage pain or discomfort but also supports the development of confidence in their physical activities. Whether your child is learning to walk, play sports, or simply navigate daily activities, chiropractic treatment can help them feel comfortable and capable. By promoting healthy posture and movement patterns, chiropractors empower children to stay active and build confidence in their bodies, ensuring they grow into physically healthy and capable adults.
Chiropractic care is a collaborative process involving the chiropractor, the child, and their family. Through shared decision-making, chiropractors work closely with parents to ensure that care is tailored to the child’s unique needs and circumstances. This partnership ensures that parents feel confident and informed about the care their child is receiving, creating a supportive environment where the child’s health and development are the primary focus.
A Safe, Gentle & Evidence-informed Approach to Paediatric Care
Paediatric chiropractic care is based on competencies set by the Royal College of Chiropractors Paediatric Faculty. These competencies focus on ensuring that chiropractors provide evidence-based care that is safe and effective for children. Research supports the benefits of paediatric chiropractic care in addressing MSK discomfort and promoting healthy development. Chiropractors also follow guidelines, such as the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) programme, which advocates for early and effective intervention which is key in managing MSK conditions. Chiropractors provide safe, evidence-based care, working closely with families to ensure that treatment aligns with the child’s needs and health priorities.
Chiropractors are specially trained to use gentle techniques that are appropriate for children of all ages, including babies. Treatments are always tailored to the child’s size, development, and specific health concerns, such as addressing scoliosis or supporting healthy posture in growing children. Chiropractic care for babies and children is non-invasive, drug-free, and designed to support their natural development while addressing any MSK issues that may arise.