Are you a parent concerned about chiropractic care for your child? We’ve all heard the horror stories about “back cracking” and questionable practitioners!
However, in Australia there are strict regulations for chiropractors working with kids, to ensure only safe, gentle, and non-invasive techniques are used to support your child’s health and wellbeing.
So, what exactly is involved in chiropractic care for children – and is it suitable for your child?
Firstly, is Chiropractic Care Safe for Kids?
Chiropractors in Australia are university-qualified to work with people of all ages. When it comes to children, treatment is to be tailored to their smaller, developing bodies. Adjustments are gentle, often involving no more than light pressure to encourage proper spinal alignment.
At the time of writing (2025), there is an interim ban on Australian chiropractors performing spinal manipulation on babies aged two years and under. This is due to a perceived lack of evidence of the effectiveness of this technique versus the risk.
When treating minors, the Chiropractic Board of Australia requires registered chiropractors to discuss the findings of any examination, and the basis of any proposed treatment plan, with a parent or guardian. Chiropractic care is tailored to suit the child’s age, presentation and development, and uses only evidence-based techniques – whether the patient is a baby or child, or in their eighties.
Child-Friendly Chiropractic Techniques
Appropriate care techniques for children may include gentle joint mobilisation, massage therapy, soft tissue therapy, heat therapy, and providing advice relating to lifestyle or exercise factors relevant to the child’s age, condition and concern.
Should the chiropractor realise that the child has symptoms or a condition that falls outside the scope of chiropractic care, they are legally required to refer them to the appropriate registered health professional – or they risk losing their license and potential further penalties.
While the media may portray chiropractic care in an unfavourable light, the goal with chiropractic for kids is never force; it’s to help their little bodies heal and function optimally. When you choose a registered chiropractor, you can feel confident your child is in safe hands.
When might a Chiropractor help?
Chiropractic care may help with several common childhood concerns, often improving quality of life. Here are some ways it may benefit your child:
- 1. Colicky Babies: Gentle adjustments may help soothe a colicky baby by improving nervous system function and reducing discomfort in their tiny digestive systems.
- 2. Scoliosis Pain: Research indicates that early intervention with chiropractic care helps manage scoliosis symptoms, reducing pain and potentially slowing curve progression.
- 3. Headaches and Migraines: Spinal misalignments can cause tension that leads to headaches. One study found that appropriate chiropractic treatment in children resulted in fewer headaches.
- 4. Sporting Injuries: Whether it’s a soccer tumble or a gymnastics strain, chiropractic care may help promote faster recovery and reduce the risk of future injuries.
- 5. Text Neck: Constant screen time can strain your child’s neck. Chiropractic care may help relieve discomfort and encourage healthier posture habits.
- 6. Back or Shoulder Pain: Carrying a heavy backpack every day can lead to back pain and poor posture. Chiropractic adjustments and posture tips are designed to help relieve the pain and prevent it from recurring.
Think of chiropractic care as an investment in your child’s overall health. It’s not just about fixing problems; it’s about promoting balance and wellbeing in their growing bodies. Whether it’s in relation to a specific issue or you’re seeking preventive care, chiropractic offers a natural treatment option for your child and family.
Have questions or concerns? Speak with a registered chiropractor to learn more about how this gentle approach might support your child’s health.