Kids Chiropractic
Chiropractors are highly-skilled and trained musculoskeletal experts that have regularly treated kids and babies (paediatrics) for a long time.
Chiropractors have an in-depth understanding of the differences between an adult, teen, child and baby’s neuromusculoskeletal system and change our assessment and treatment methods accordingly for kids Chiropractic.
There will never be ‘cracking’ of a baby’s spine or joints, all adjustments are tailored and will be done in a gentle and respective manner with the aim to be safe and effective with treatment.
Why Do Kids Need Treatment
Research has shown that a high percentage of babies are born with neck movement restrictions as a result of the birthing process (even when the birth goes well). This may result in, discomfort, flat spots on their head (and other head shape changes), as well as various other potential outcomes.
Kids and toddlers are commonly having falls and accidents as they learn to coordinate and move their body, and learn new skills as they explore the world around them. These falls and accidents can cause injury just like in adults, and require management and treatment just the same. Chiropractors are also trained to monitor childhood developmental stages and assess any delays, or developmental abnormalities.
Teenagers may also need treatment for various sporting injuries, postural issues and/or scoliosis checks and monitoring.
Over recent times, there has been a vast increase in postural related musculoskeletal conditions due to the increased usage of devices such as smartphones, tablets and computers.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states that around 1.71 billion people (of all ages including children) worldwide suffer from musculoskeletal conditions, and that musculoskeletal conditions are the leading contributor to all disability in the entire world. In fact, low back pain is the single leading cause of disability in 160 countries and the WHO expects this to only increase.
Is Kids Chiropractic Safe
A study was done recently (2019) to assess if Chiropractic was safe for children and infants. This was done by Safer Care Victoria by the Victorian Government. An extensive search identified very little evidence of patient harm occurring in Australia.
The public responses indicated strong consumer satisfaction, 99.7% (21,750) reported a positive experience with the chiropractic care of their children.
The majority of parents/guardians reported that chiropractic spinal care helped their child, with 98% (21,474) indicating that their child improved after treatment.
No patient complaints or practitioner notifications occurred from significant harm to a child following spinal manipulation.
The Queensland Office of the Health Ombudsman reported that since its inception on 1 July 2014 it has not received any complaints relating to spinal manipulation of children under 12 years.
The Victorian Health Complaints Commissioner (HCC) reported no complaints against a chiropractor related to the treatment of a child
No cases were reported where an insurance agent has had to defend or settle such a claim.
In Australia the Regulatory Board doesn’t allow the use of the term Paediatric Chiropractor (at this stage), however, all Chiropractors have thorough training in treating kids during their studies. This terminology restriction can make it hard to locate a Chiropractor for kids when there is a condition that is a little more challenging.
There are a few post-graduate education qualifications that can be done to increase a Chiropractor’s knowledge in paediatrics. In Australia this is known as Diplomate of Australian College of Chiropractic Paediatrics (DACCP) and is the third highest qualification for chiropractors in paediatrics and is a two year diplomat. At our clinic, Dr Liz has obtained this qualification and Dr Georgia is starting this education process as well.
The only qualifications above the DACCP are a Masters of Paediatric Chiropractic (no longer offered in Australia) and a fellowship (in Melbourne).