As a chiropractor and a new parent, one of the most common questions I get from patients is, “Do babies really need chiropractic care?” My answer is a confident yes—in fact, I have my baby adjusted regularly. Chiropractic care for infants may sound surprising at first, but when you understand the science and benefits, it starts to make a lot of sense.
The Birth Process Is Hard—For Babies Too
Whether delivered naturally or by C-section, birth is a physically intense process for a baby. Even in the smoothest deliveries, an infant’s spine and nervous system can experience stress and strain. Research shows that subtle misalignments (also known as subluxations) can occur in the upper cervical spine during birth, potentially affecting nerve function and overall comfort.
A 2015 review in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics noted that manual therapy, including chiropractic adjustments, can be a safe and effective intervention for infants with musculoskeletal issues.
Chiropractic Adjustments Are Gentle and Specific
Let me be clear: chiropractic care for babies is very different from what you may have experienced as an adult. We use the lightest touch—often no more pressure than you’d use to check the ripeness of a tomato. There’s no twisting or cracking involved. It’s a safe, precise technique tailored to the unique needs of an infant’s developing spine and nervous system.
The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Infants
Many parents bring their babies in to be evaluated and adjusted for a range of reasons. While chiropractic is not a treatment for any specific disease, supporting the spine and nervous system has been associated with improvements in a variety of common infant concerns:
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Colic and fussiness: Some studies and parental reports suggest chiropractic care may reduce crying time and improve comfort in colicky infants.
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Feeding difficulties: Misalignments in the neck can affect an infant’s ability to latch properly. Gentle adjustments can help improve range of motion and coordination.
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Torticollis and head preference: If your baby consistently looks or turns one way, chiropractic care may help improve neck mobility.
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Sleep issues: Supporting spinal alignment and nervous system balance can contribute to more restful sleep.
In a study published in Explore (NY), parents reported high satisfaction and perceived improvement in their children’s symptoms following chiropractic care. And importantly, a 2019 consensus statement from the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) found that spinal adjustments for infants, when performed by trained professionals, have an excellent safety record.
What to Expect at Your Baby’s First Visit
At Hebdon Chiropractic, we start with a thorough health history and physical exam, and we explain every step of the process to ensure you’re comfortable and informed. We use gentle, evidence-based techniques to evaluate your baby’s spine, and if an adjustment is indicated, it’s always done with safety and care as the top priority.
My Why: Trusting the Science, Living the Experience
As both a doctor and a parent, I have my baby adjusted because I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to support their health from day one. A well-functioning nervous system lays the foundation for better sleep, improved digestion, and overall wellbeing. It’s not just professional—it’s personal.
If you’re curious about chiropractic care for your baby, I invite you to schedule a consultation. I’d be honored to walk with you on your journey to raising a happy, healthy child.
Dr. Hebdon
Hebdon Chiropractic
Helping families thrive—naturally.
Nadine Hebdon
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