While many adults seek chiropractic treatment for conditions such as back, joint, neck pain, and headaches, it’s understandable if you’ve wondered whether chiropractic therapy is good for your child or an elder you care for. Chiropractic care is a form of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly issues related to the spine, joints, and muscles, and can be beneficial for people of all ages.
As it turns out, chiropractic care is not only safe for adolescents and seniors but can also help in more ways than just pain relief. In addition to manual physical therapy, chiropractic doctors also provide education and guidance on exercise, stress management, and specialized stretching techniques that seniors and kids can add to their daily regime to improve mobility. A good chiropractor will work in tandem with a senior or child’s primary care physician to develop individualized treatment plans for patients.
For both kids and seniors, the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic care largely depend on the specific chiropractor and whether they have experience and training specific to the age group being treated. A good chiropractor will also coordinate with pediatricians, geriatricians, or other healthcare professionals to help ensure the best outcomes. As a doctor, I’ve worked with patients as young as a day old as well as older patients well into their 90s.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe For Kids?
A 2019 meta-analysis published in PubMed reviewed 26 studies and concluded that “Gentle, low-velocity spinal mobilizations seem to be a safe treatment technique in infants, children, and adolescents.” Children have developing bodies that require special care and attention, so a chiropractor with experience working with different age groups is best. Personally, as a doctor and chiropractor, I’ve worked with hundreds of parents and children and have created successful health plans and therapies to relieve pain and improve health outcomes for those children. Some of the most common things I’ve seen include:
- Colic and Digestive Issues: Some studies suggest that gentle spinal adjustments may help alleviate colic and improve digestion in children.
- Postural Problems: Chiropractic care may assist in addressing early signs of spinal misalignment.
- Sports Injuries: Active kids involved in sports may benefit from chiropractic adjustments to aid recovery from minor injuries and enhance mobility.
Chiropractors who specialize in pediatric care often use gentle, non-invasive techniques designed specifically for children. This can help with musculoskeletal alignment, improve sleep, and promote overall wellness.
While generally considered safe when performed by a qualified chiropractor, adjustments in children must be approached with caution. Overly aggressive manipulations could potentially cause harm, specifically in infants, younger children, or children with specific underlying health problems. It’s best to discuss treatment plans with a licensed chiropractor before signing up for services.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe For Seniors?
As people get older, their bodies undergo natural changes, including reduced bone density, joint stiffness, and an increased risk of conditions such as osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Chiropractic care is often sought by seniors for conditions such as chronic back pain, neck pain, and sciatica — and could prove to be an effective addition to regular physician checkups. Hawaii, in particular, is a great place to retire, and I’ve personally worked with hundreds of seniors to help them improve their mobility and reduce their pain, with some patients well into their 90s! Some of the most common reasons my elder patients see me include:
- Pain Relief: Seniors can get significant relief from chronic pain through chiropractic adjustments.
- Improved Mobility: Gentle spinal manipulations may help improve range of motion and overall flexibility.
- An Alternative To Pharmaceuticals: Chiropractic care offers a drug-free alternative for managing pain, which can be particularly important for seniors looking to avoid medication side effects. All health decisions should be made in tandem with your PCP.
Chiropractic therapy can offer benefits for both children and seniors when tailored to their unique needs and administered by a qualified professional. Parents considering chiropractic care for their children or seniors seeking treatment should consult with a licensed chiropractor to learn more about the benefits and risks. When approached with care and expertise, chiropractic treatment can be valuable in enhancing health and well-being for people of all ages.
If you are planning on getting chiropractic care for a child or senior and live in Hawaii, be sure to visit our schedule an appointment page.
