Kids’ spines do a lot of growing — and a lot of bouncing, tumbling, and backpack-carrying — long before they can tell you something feels off. Pediatric chiropractic care is a gentle, age-appropriate way to check how your child’s spine and nervous system are developing and to address the small restrictions that everyday childhood can create, from the way a baby favors turning their head to one side to a toddler’s frequent falls while learning to walk.

Care that is scaled to your child

A pediatric adjustment is nothing like an adult visit. Our doctors modify every technique to your child’s size, weight, and stage of spinal development. Young children have softer, more flexible joints than adults, so the corrections they need are far lighter — there is no forceful twisting and no “cracking.”

How we adjust children under 5

For infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, adjustments are made with light, sustained fingertip pressure — about the same pressure you would comfortably use to test the ripeness of a tomato. Instead of the quick movements used with adults, the doctor holds a gentle contact on the specific area until the tissue releases. There is no popping sound, and most little ones stay relaxed through the visit; many parents are surprised by how subtle it looks.

• Babies are often checked while resting in a parent’s arms or lying comfortably on the table with you right beside them.
• Toddlers and preschoolers are examined through simple movement and play, and visits are kept short and unhurried.
• Instrument-assisted adjusting on its gentlest setting is available when an even lighter, more precise contact is appropriate.
• A parent stays with your child the entire time, and we explain every step before we do it — nothing is done without your consent.

School-age kids and teens

As children grow, sports, screens, growth spurts, and heavy backpacks all place new demands on the spine. For older kids and teens we use light manual adjustments matched to their development, and we coach posture habits and simple exercises they can actually stick with.

Your child’s first visit

We begin with a conversation about your child’s health history, followed by a gentle, age-appropriate examination. We explain what we find in plain language and answer your questions before any care begins. Ready to get started? Visit our New Patients page or give the office a call — we are happy to talk through whether care is a good fit for your child.