Newborn Chiropractic: Supporting Your Baby's Health from Day One
Why Your Baby's Spine and Nervous System Need Support from Birth
A pediatric chiropractor provides gentle, safe care for infants and children to support proper spinal alignment and nervous system function from birth. Here's what they do:
Use extremely gentle, light-touch adjustments adapted for babies
Address spinal stress from the birth process
Support proper nervous system development
Help with common infant issues like colic, reflux, and latching difficulties
Check alignment at key developmental milestones
When to See One:
Right after birth to assess alignment
During developmental stages (rolling, sitting, crawling, walking)
If your baby shows signs of discomfort, difficulty nursing, or sleep issues
The birth process can be the first cause of spinal stress. In fact, many adult spinal problems begin at birth. With over 60% of neurological development occurring in the first year, this is a critical time to ensure proper function.
Adjustments for babies are very different from adult care. There is no cracking or popping. We use incredibly gentle pressure, often as light as a finger touch. The techniques are so soothing that many babies sleep right through their appointments.
Hi! I'm Dr. Michelle Andrews, founder of ChiroHer in Oklahoma City. I'm Webster Technique certified and have extensive training in pediatric chiropractic care, helping countless families support their children's health from the very beginning. My approach focuses on gentle, personalized care that addresses each child's unique needs while educating parents every step of the way.
What is Pediatric Chiropractic and Why is it Important?
Pediatric chiropractic is not like adult care for back pain. It's a specialized approach for the unique needs of growing bodies, from newborns to teens.
The goal is to support nervous system function through proper spinal health, but the methods are adapted for developing bodies. A newborn's spine is mostly flexible cartilage, so the techniques we use are completely different from those for adults.
Even a normal birth can stress a baby's spine and nervous system. The forces involved can create subtle misalignments that may interfere with nervous system communication. Gentle adjustments help resolve this. The pressure used on infants is extremely light, with no cracking or popping. Babies often sleep through their adjustments because the techniques are so calming.
Our goal is to optimize nervous system function, not treat specific conditions. A nervous system free from interference provides a strong foundation for health and development. Addressing spinal stress early can help prevent future issues. Many adult spinal problems begin in childhood, and prevention is easier than correction.
If you're curious about how we specifically work with the youngest members of your family, you can learn more about Chiropractic Care for Infants.
How Chiropractic Supports Your Child's Development
Over 60% of all neurological development occurs in the first year, a period of incredible growth. Proper spinal alignment allows the nervous system to work without interference, supporting clear communication between the brain and body for healthy development.
Motor milestones: Proper alignment supports coordination for rolling, sitting, crawling, and walking.
Brain development: A healthy nervous system creates an environment for cognitive function, learning, and behavior to flourish.
Improved sleep: Easing tension in the spine and nervous system helps children relax more deeply, leading to better rest.
Digestive issues: Gentle adjustments can help restore proper nerve flow to the digestive organs, which may improve issues like colic, reflux, and constipation.
Overall well-being: Chiropractic care helps children adapt to stress and builds a strong foundation for lifelong health.
I believe that supporting your child's spine and nervous system from the beginning gives them the best possible start. To understand more about how this care can benefit your family, explore the Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic.
Common Childhood Issues Addressed
Parents often ask what we help with. We don't treat diseases; we support nervous system function. When the nervous system works better, many common childhood issues can improve.
Colic: Gentle adjustments can release spinal and abdominal tension, which may bring relief from the intense, prolonged crying associated with colic symptoms.
Reflux: By supporting the nerves that control digestion, our gentle approach may help reduce discomfort from reflux.
Ear infections: While we don't treat infections, improving mobility in the neck and upper spine may support better fluid drainage from the ears.
Torticollis: We use gentle adjustments and soft tissue work to release neck muscle tension that causes a baby's head to tilt.
Latching issues: We address restrictions in the jaw, neck, or cranium that can make it difficult for a baby to nurse comfortably.
Constipation: Optimizing nervous system control over the digestive tract may help improve regularity.
Growing Pains & Injuries: We also help older children with issues from falls, sports, and growth spurts.
You can find more information about how we help with these and other concerns on our page about Common Childhood Conditions Addressed by Chiropractors.
Your Child's Visit to a Pediatric Chiropractor
Bringing your child to a chiropractor for the first time can feel uncertain. Let me walk you through what to expect at our Oklahoma City clinic, where we've designed the experience to make you and your child feel at ease.
Our office is a warm, welcoming space where children enjoy coming. The examination and adjustments are completely customized to your child's age and needs, emphasizing gentleness and comfort. The care for a newborn is vastly different from how we help a toddler. For more details about the specific techniques we use at different ages, visit our page on Pediatric Spinal Adjustment.
What to Expect During the First Appointment
Your child's first visit is about getting to know your family and understanding your child's health history. We take our time, as building trust and gathering information are key to providing great care.
Warm welcome: Our team loves working with children, and we've created a comfortable space where they can feel relaxed and curious.
Detailed health history: We'll discuss your pregnancy, birth experience, feeding, sleep, and any concerns you have. Details about milestones or falls help create a full picture.
Gentle examination: I'll observe your child's movement, posture, and reflexes. This is hands-on but non-invasive, often done while your baby plays or nurses.
Parent education: I'll share my findings, explain how they relate to your child's health, and discuss how our care can help. My goal is to empower you with knowledge.
Personalized care plan: I'll create a specific care plan for your child, outlining recommended visit frequency and the gentle techniques we'll use.
Answering questions: I encourage you to ask anything. You should leave feeling confident about the care plan.
The Safety of Gentle Adjustments for Children
Is chiropractic care safe for my child? Yes, it is exceptionally safe when performed by a trained professional. The techniques are modified for children and are very different from adult adjustments.
The pressure used is incredibly light, often no more than a gentle finger touch. The techniques are so soothing that many babies sleep through their adjustment. There are no cracking or popping sounds. Children's joints are more pliable, and the force used is minimal, so infants and toddlers remain relaxed and calm.
Pediatric chiropractic has an excellent safety record. It is a natural approach that avoids invasive procedures and medications, instead supporting the body's ability to function optimally. Our non-invasive approach works with your child's body to remove interference, allowing the nervous system to communicate clearly. Your child's comfort is the foundation of everything we do.
When to See a Pediatric Chiropractor
While it's never too late to start, certain times are especially beneficial for a chiropractic visit.
Right after birth: Even uncomplicated deliveries can stress a newborn's spine. An early check can correct misalignments before they cause issues.
During developmental milestones: Check-ups are helpful as your baby learns to hold their head up, roll over, sit up, crawl, and walk. Each stage places new demands on their body.
After any fall or minor trauma: Tumbles are part of childhood. A check-up can identify subtle misalignments from falls that might cause problems later.
If you notice specific challenges: Issues like persistent crying, nursing difficulties, sleep problems, or developmental delays are all good reasons for an evaluation.
The frequency of visits depends on your child's needs. Some may need more care initially before transitioning to wellness checks. Children often respond quickly and require fewer visits than adults. Our goal is to help your child thrive with minimal intervention.
Finding the Right Care for Your Child
Choosing a healthcare provider for your child is a major decision. For pediatric chiropractic care, you need someone who understands growing bodies and provides gentle, effective care. At ChiroHer, we offer specialized care for children in Oklahoma City and throughout the surrounding communities, including Yukon, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Del City, Mustang, and Moore.
We are committed to transparency, education, and building relationships with our families. We want you to feel comfortable and actively involved in your child's care.
How to Find a Qualified Pediatric Chiropractor
Not all chiropractors have the same level of pediatric training. Just as you'd choose a pediatrician over a general practitioner for your child, it's important to find a chiropractor with specialized pediatric expertise.
Specialized training: Look for a chiropractor who has completed post-graduate classes in pediatric care. This advanced education covers the unique needs of developing bodies.
Certifications: Certifications from respected organizations are important. Membership in the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) indicates a high standard of training. I am proud to have completed this advanced training.
A family-focused practice: A clinic that welcomes families and is designed with children in mind shows a commitment to pediatric care. Our clinic is designed to make parents and children feel at ease.
Gentle techniques: A qualified pediatric chiropractor will emphasize low-force, gentle adjustments and be able to explain exactly what the care will look like for your child.
Clear communication and parent education: A good chiropractor will take the time to explain their findings, answer all your questions, and empower you with knowledge about your child's health.
If you're looking for a pediatric chiropractor in the Oklahoma City area, we invite you to Schedule a consultation with us today. We can discuss your child's needs and how our specialized care can support their development. Learn more on our page about finding a Pediatric Chiropractor in OKC.
We are here to answer your questions and partner with you in supporting your child's health. We look forward to welcoming you to the ChiroHer family.
This guide is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for already established medical advice from your healthcare provider.