What does a pediatric chiropractor do?

What is a Pediatric Chiropractor?

Pediatric chiropractors specialize in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders and related health conditions in children, from newborns to teenagers. These chiropractors receive specialized training in providing chiropractic care for children, which involves adjusting the spine and other joints to improve their alignment and mobility, to help alleviate pain, discomfort, and a wide range of conditions such as colic, ear infections, asthma, and bedwetting, among others.

By identifying and addressing health issues early on, including those that may not respond well to traditional medical treatments, pediatric chiropractors can help to prevent more serious health problems from developing later in life.

What does a Pediatric Chiropractor do?

Pediatric chiropractors use gentle and non-invasive techniques that are specifically tailored to the needs of children, such as low-force adjustments and instrument-assisted adjustments, to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective for young patients. They may also provide advice on nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors that can contribute to a child's overall health and well-being.

During a visit, a pediatric chiropractor will typically perform a thorough evaluation of the child's medical history, a physical exam, and any relevant imaging or laboratory tests to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses the child's specific needs. The treatment plan may include adjustments – also called manipulations – to the spine and other joints, therapeutic exercises, nutritional counseling, and other modalities as appropriate. Throughout the course of treatment, the pediatric chiropractor will monitor the child's progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.

In addition to these patient-centered interactions, the pediatric chiropractor spends time reviewing new chiropractic research or techniques and may also need to manage administrative tasks such as patient scheduling, billing, and record-keeping.

Specializations
All pediatric chiropractors receive specialized education that prepares them to work with children and take a traditional approach to chiropractic care, focusing on the adjustment of the spine and other joints to promote proper alignment and mobility. Some, however, may choose to specialize further and focus on a particular area of pediatric chiropractrics. Let’s take a look at some pediatric chiropractor specialists:

• Pediatric Sports Chiropractors specialize in working with young athletes and may focus on treating and preventing sports-related injuries.
• Pediatric Functional Chiropractors focus on improving the function of the body's systems and may use a variety of techniques to support overall health and wellness.
• Pediatric Neurological Chiropractors specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders in children, such as developmental delays, learning disabilities, and attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some findings suggest that chiropractic care may have a role in improving oculomotor (relating to the motion of the eye) control and reading ability in the pediatric population group.
• Pediatric Craniosacral Chiropractors use gentle techniques to address imbalances in the craniosacral system, which can affect the functioning of the nervous system and other body systems. The craniosacral system consists of the membranes and fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord, as well as the attached bones.

What is the workplace of a Pediatric Chiropractor like?

Pediatric chiropractors may be self-employed and operate their own private practices, they may be part of a group practice, or they may be employed by chiropractic clinics, hospitals, or other healthcare organizations.

It is not uncommon for these chiropractors to collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, obstetricians, or physical therapists to provide comprehensive care to their patients. This is especially true when working with children who are hospitalized or undergoing treatment for a specific condition, such as scoliosis or cerebral palsy.

Some chiropractors may work with sports teams or other organizations that work with children, providing care following injuries and promoting overall health and wellness.

Regardless of the employment setting, a pediatric chiropractor's workplace will be clean, well-lit, and equipped with the tools and equipment needed to provide chiropractic care to children. They may also have access to specialized equipment, such as pediatric adjusting tables, to ensure the safety and comfort of their young patients.