Chiropractic and babies

For many, the image of a newborn baby is a cheerful child, glowing with health. But a baby is
not always as healthy as it seems. The priorities are very clear for parents who are expecting
a baby. The mother ensures a healthy diet, adequate sleep and the use of nicotine and
alcohol is kept to a minimum. The father's concerns will mainly focus on the practical matters
surrounding birth. But despite the good care of the expectant parents, things don't always go
as expected.

Babies´ complaints include:
- Colic (cry babies)
- Preferred position
- Kiss syndrome

The crying baby
The baby gets enough nutrition, it makes a healthy impression and yet it seems
inconsolable. A big problem with babies is that they cannot tell you when they are in pain.
Crying is their only way of communicating. Parents get frustrated because their baby is
crying for no apparent reason. Birth trauma can be the cause of this.

Causes of birth trauma

The birth process is often the first shock the baby experiences. If you consider that during
the passage through the birth canal about 30kg (!) pressure exists on the head and the small
spine, this is not surprising. The head is forced to rotate 90 degrees while the contractions
force the baby through the birth canal. Assisted deliveries, such as delivery with forceps,
vacuum or a cesarean section, can also cause birth trauma. In these cases, it is imperative
that the midwife or gynecologist must turn and pull the head or neck during birth. As a result
of this, a deviation in the cervical region (neck) can occur. There is then a movement
restriction between two vertebral joints where a nerve disorder can occur.

Consequences and symptoms of birth trauma
Nerve disorders can cause complaints such as colic (colic), excessive tilting of the head to
one side (preferred position), a deviation of the spine and Kiss syndrome. Because of these
nerve disorders, the baby feels pain and the immune system can also be affected.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is a medicine that has been around for more than 100 years. The treatment
focuses on disorders in the functioning of the musculoskeletal system and the relationship
with the nervous system. A chiropractor checks the (small) spine for restrictions. Through a
thorough examination and targeted treatment, the chiropractor locates and corrects these
restrictions. This restores the normal functioning of nerves and allows the body to heal itself.

First visit

Intake                         
A patient questionnaire is filled in by the parents followed by a discussion with the chiropractor in order to establish a thorough case history.

Examination              
Chiropractic tests
Neurological test
Orthopaedic test

Diagnosis                       
Given by the Chiropractor

Treatment                      
Nearly always already on the first visit

The chiropractic treatment
The chiropractor corrects restrictions in the spine by means of appropriate techniques. This
restores optimal functioning of the spine and nervous system. In addition, chiropractic also
has a preventive effect. Any deviations can be corrected in time and thereby prevent
complaints at a later age. After all, you regularly take your child to the dentist for preventive
care, so why not to the chiropractor?

The most frequently asked questions

Are chiropractic treatments safe for babies?
Yes, definitely. Babies are treated using adapted treatment techniques that are very gentle.

From what age can my baby be treated?
Basically from birth, ideally from 6 weeks onwards.

Does my baby have to come back regularly for treatment?
If everything is optimal, we recommend checking the spine every six months.

Advice for a healthy baby

• Breastfeed if possible. It has been scientifically proven that breastfeeding is of great importance, especially during the first 6 weeks after birth. Bottle feeding is more difficult for the baby's intestines to digest, which can lead to colic.
• Take a baby massage course. It is very important that the child can relax well. This can be achieved by taking a baby massage course.
• Never smoke in front of the baby. Also ask visitors not to smoke in front of the baby. Nicotine and smoke have a very bad effect on small children.
• Always let the baby belch after feeding. If the child is not burping, air bubbles pass through the intestines, which can cause colic.
• Means of transport. Do not use a baby carrier, it does not provide sufficient support to the spine. If possible, never use a maxi-cosi for longer than an hour and a half and buy a good stroller that supports the back sufficiently.
• Place the baby on its back and side while sleeping. Never let the baby sleep on the stomach. Place the baby on the right side once and then on the left side and keep alternating. The first 6 weeks you should put a rolled towel against their back. Alternation in posture is very important for the development of the neck.
• Education. Start early with educational booklets for brain development; a baby understands more than we think. Brain training is excellent for mental development. When a baby grows up with this, the first step to school will be much more enjoyable
• Toys. The use of a baby walker or baby bouncer is not recommended. This causes the baby to walk too fast, which prevents normal development of the spine.

Finally
A baby cannot let you know if he is in pain or is feeling unwell. Therefore, have your child's
spine checked regularly (preventively) so that it can grow up in good health.
Chiropractic during pregnancy Chiropractors can correct restrictions in the spine and pelvis and ensure that optimal freedom of movement is maintained. Because special techniques are used, pregnant women can be treated until the last day of pregnancy. However, it is wise to let the chiropractor know that you are pregnant.

Pregnancy and pelvic instability
Getting pregnant causes many changes in the body. First, hormone changes, stretch
ligaments and muscles. This makes the spine and pelvis less stable. Back and pelvic
complaints can result, especially during the last 3 months.

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