At ACCC we understand that finding the right practitioner for your child is a significant decision, and one that you have spent time researching. We know this after working with thousands of families over the past 10 years. Our team spends an enormous amount of additional time on studying, mentoring and building strong in-house and external collaboration to create an experience and level of excellence for your family to have the best care possible - we know the work needed and how important that is.
Chiropractic care focuses on the health of the nervous system. The health of your child's nervous system now sets the foundation for long-term function. In the early days and years, they are building the architecture of their brains and nervous systems, which form the basis of their whole lives. It is essential to find a chiropractor who not only understands their nervous system but is also specifically trained to nurture their little brains and bodies.
All Chiropractors Can See Children, But Not All Chiropractors Focus on Children
Just as a general practitioner is different from a paediatrician, a general chiropractor is different from a paediatric chiropractor. Every licensed chiropractor is trained to care for people of all ages and is held to a high standard of care for everyone they see. Many Chiropractors choose to do additional studies in paediatric care. Advanced training in paediatrics will help your family's chiropractor better understand the unique anatomy, neuroanatomy, and developmental milestones of a growing child.
Why do we think additional study is necessary?
A child's body is not simply a tiny adult's. Their bones are softer as they begin to develop; their joints are smaller; and their nervous system is also growing at a rapid rate.
Not only that, you as a parent are managing not only their general health but their emotional wellbeing, feeding, supporting gut function and working through illness and challenges that are new and can feel overwhelming.
A paediatric chiropractor, like one of our team, with additional paediatric training, will have a high level of specificity and competence for your child. We are also here to support and hold your hand as you navigate these parenting changes!
Chiropractic care has an exemplary safety record in Australia, no matter the practitioner you see. The techniques used are vastly different from those for adults, often involving only fingertip pressure, and may include specific, low-force instruments. The goal is always to provide a safe, comfortable, and effective adjustment that is designed for the age and stage of development your child is currently in.
A Focus on the "Why"
For example, if a child is experiencing reflux or colic, Chiropractors do not treat either. We do, however, assess nervous system function. A paediatric chiropractor will ask about the birth history; was there a difficult delivery, the use of vacuum or forceps, or a C-section? These events can place significant stress on your baby's upper neck and nervous system, leading to dysfunction. We know that a stressed system can disrupt vagal nerve function (which is linked to digestive function). By addressing the root cause of nervous system dysfunction, we can unwind stress patterns, support parasympathetic function (vagal tone), and allow the body to be in a better functional state.
A holistic approach that many Paediatric Chiropractors embody will also extend to lifestyle recommendations. Your chiropractor may provide guidance on things like:
- Nutrition: Discussing the role of diet in reducing inflammation and supporting brain function. Understanding gut function and supporting with supplements like probiotics, when necessary.
- Exercise and play: Recommending specific activities to support proper neuro-development.
- Environmental factors: Offering advice on minimizing exposure to toxins that can stress a child's delicate system.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Family
Ultimately, the best chiropractor for your child is one who feels like the right fit for your family. They should be a partner in your child's health journey, someone who listens to your concerns, answers your questions, and works collaboratively with other healthcare providers. Look for a practice that creates a warm, welcoming, and fun environment for children. Trust your gut—if a practice feels right and the chiropractor has the training you seek and the gentle approach your child deserves, you've likely found a great match to support your family's health goals.
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