Chiropractic Care for Babies
July 10, 2025
The Benefits of Neonatal Chiropractic Care: Supporting Your Baby’s Health from the Start
Welcoming a newborn into the world is an exciting and life-changing experience. As parents, ensuring the health and well-being of your baby is a top priority. One aspect of holistic care that is often overlooked but can have profound benefits is neonatal chiropractic care. Gentle, specialized chiropractic adjustments for newborns can help support a baby’s nervous system, promote proper development, and address common newborn discomforts.
Why Chiropractic Care for Newborns?
The birth process, whether natural or via C-section, can put stress on an infant’s delicate spine and nervous system. Even in the most uneventful births, the journey through the birth canal or the pressures involved in delivery can lead to subtle misalignments (subluxations) in the spine. These misalignments may interfere with nerve function, potentially contributing to issues such as colic, difficulty latching, sleep disturbances, and digestive discomfort (Haavik et al., 2012).
Chiropractic care for newborns is gentle, safe, and highly specialized, using light fingertip pressure to correct these misalignments and support a baby’s overall health.
The Benefits of Neonatal Chiropractic Care
1. Supports Nervous System Development
The nervous system controls every function in the body, including growth, digestion, and immune function. Ensuring that a newborn’s spine is properly aligned helps optimize nerve communication, promoting healthy development from the very beginning (Holt et al., 2018).
2. Aids in Breastfeeding and Latching
Many newborns struggle with latching or have difficulty turning their heads evenly. This can be due to tension or misalignments in the neck and upper spine. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help improve range of motion, allowing babies to latch more effectively, reducing frustration for both baby and mother (Martini et al., 2014).
3. Reduces Colic and Digestive Discomfort
Colic and reflux are common concerns for parents. Some studies suggest that spinal misalignments may contribute to digestive issues by affecting nerve function in the gut. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce nerve interference, allowing for better digestion and relief from colic symptoms (Miller et al., 2012).
4. Improves Sleep Patterns
A well-functioning nervous system helps regulate sleep cycles. By reducing tension and ensuring proper alignment, chiropractic care can help babies sleep more peacefully, leading to better rest for both the infant and parents (Simpson et al., 2017).
5. Enhances Immune Function
A healthy nervous system is closely linked to immune function. By supporting optimal nerve flow, chiropractic care may help strengthen an infant’s ability to fight off common illnesses, keeping them healthier as they grow (Kohler et al., 2019).
6. Supports Proper Growth and Development
The early months of life are crucial for physical development. Regular chiropractic check-ups can help ensure proper posture, prevent asymmetries such as flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly), and support balanced growth (Todd et al., 2020).
What to Expect During a Neonatal Chiropractic Visit
A chiropractic visit for a newborn is far different from an adult adjustment. The pressure applied is no more than you would use to test the ripeness of a tomato. The chiropractor will perform a thorough assessment, checking for areas of tension or misalignment and gently making any necessary adjustments. Most babies remain calm and relaxed during their adjustments, and many parents notice immediate improvements in their baby’s comfort and behavior following care.
Is Neonatal Chiropractic Care Safe?
Yes! When performed by a trained and experienced pediatric chiropractor, neonatal chiropractic care is safe, gentle, and effective. Chiropractors specializing in infant care use techniques specifically designed for newborns to ensure the utmost safety and comfort (Alcantara et al., 2009).
Give Your Baby a Healthy Start
At Shepherd Chiropractic Clinic, we are passionate about supporting families with natural, holistic care. Whether your baby is experiencing specific concerns or you simply want to ensure they have the best start in life, neonatal chiropractic care can be a powerful tool for optimizing health and well-being.
If you’d like to learn more about how chiropractic care can benefit your newborn, we’d love to answer your questions. Schedule a consultation with us today and take the first step toward supporting your baby’s health naturally!
At Shepherd Chiropractic Clinic, we believe in a holistic approach to health—one that supports the body’s natural ability to heal and thrive. While many people associate chiropractic care with pain relief, research suggests its benefits go far beyond spinal health. Chiropractic adjustments may influence key biomarkers—measurable indicators of health—helping to regulate immune function, inflammation, and the body’s stress response. From Dr. Ronald Pero’s groundbreaking research to more recent scientific studies, there is growing evidence that chiropractic care can play a vital role in supporting wellness for the whole family. Dr. Ron Pero’s Research: Early Evidence of Chiropractic’s Immune Benefits One of the earliest and most influential studies on chiropractic and immune function came from Dr. Ronald Pero, chief of cancer prevention research at New York’s Preventive Medicine Institute. His study compared three groups: Individuals under long-term chiropractic care General population individuals without chiropractic care Patients with cancer or other serious diseases His findings were remarkable: Chiropractic patients had a 200% stronger immune response than those who had never received chiropractic care. Compared to individuals with chronic diseases, chiropractic patients had a 400% stronger immune function. These immune benefits were consistent regardless of age, lifestyle, or diet. Pero’s research suggested that regular chiropractic care helps the nervous system function optimally, which in turn strengthens the immune system—an essential factor in holistic family wellness. Modern Research on Chiropractic and Biomarkers Since Dr. Pero’s study, researchers have continued to explore how chiropractic care affects measurable biomarkers related to inflammation, stress, and nervous system function. 1. Chiropractic and Brain Health (Neurotrophic Factors) A recent study examined how chiropractic adjustments influence brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) , insulin-like growth factor-II (IGF-II) , and glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) —all critical for brain plasticity, nerve function, and development. While changes in these biomarkers were observed, they were similar in both the chiropractic and control groups, indicating the need for further research on chiropractic’s role in brain health ( PMC, 2023 ). 2. Chiropractic and Inflammation (Oxidative Stress & Immune Response) Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to health issues such as autoimmune disorders, heart disease, and chronic pain. A 2024 study found that spinal adjustments can influence oxidative stress and pro-resolution inflammatory markers , indicating a potential role in regulating the body’s natural healing and anti-inflammatory processes ( Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 2024 ). 3. Chiropractic and Stress Adaptation (Cortisol & Heart Rate Variability) Stress affects both adults and children, leading to long-term health issues when not properly managed. Chiropractic adjustments have been found to influence heart rate variability (HRV) , a key indicator of the body’s ability to adapt to stress. Studies also suggest spinal adjustments may lower cortisol levels , reducing the body’s overall stress burden ( PMC, 2024 ). 4. Chiropractic and Nervous System Function The nervous system plays a central role in regulating health across all ages, from infants to seniors. A study published in Scientific Reports found that chiropractic care can impact somatosensory processing, sensorimotor integration, and motor control , which are crucial for movement accuracy, coordination, and recovery from injuries ( Nature, 2019 ). How Chiropractic Supports Whole-Family Wellness At Shepherd Chiropractic Clinic, we see firsthand how chiropractic adjustments improve the health and well-being of families. By enhancing nervous system function, reducing inflammation, and improving stress resilience, chiropractic care supports: Stronger immune function for fewer illnesses in children and adults Better stress management for parents balancing work and family life Improved recovery and injury prevention for active kids and adults Enhanced nervous system function for better sleep, focus, and energy A Natural Approach to Lifelong Health Holistic family wellness isn’t just about treating symptoms—it’s about creating a foundation for long-term health. Chiropractic care is a safe, natural, and effective way to support your family’s well-being from infancy to adulthood. Whether you’re looking to boost immune function, reduce stress, or enhance overall vitality, regular chiropractic adjustments can be a key part of your wellness routine. Are You Ready to Prioritize Your Family’s Health? At Shepherd Chiropractic Clinic, we are committed to providing holistic chiropractic care tailored to every member of your family. Schedule an appointment today and take the next step toward optimal wellness!
In today’s fast-paced world, maintaining optimal health can be a challenge. Many people turn to medications or invasive treatments to relieve pain and discomfort, but there’s a natural, effective alternative that has been helping people for generations—chiropractic care. Whether you’re struggling with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to healing. Pain Relief Without Medication One of the most common reasons people seek chiropractic care is to alleviate pain, particularly in the back, neck, and joints. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal adjustments to correct misalignments that can cause discomfort and limit mobility. Unlike medications that only mask symptoms, chiropractic adjustments address the root cause of pain, providing long-term relief without the need for drugs or surgery. Improved Mobility and Flexibility Misalignments in the spine can lead to stiffness and reduced range of motion. Chiropractic adjustments help restore proper alignment, allowing your body to move more freely. Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance performance or someone experiencing mobility issues due to aging, regular chiropractic care can keep your joints and muscles functioning at their best. Supports the Nervous System The spine is closely connected to the nervous system, which controls every function in the body. When the spine is out of alignment, it can put pressure on nerves, leading to various health issues such as headaches, fatigue, and even digestive problems. By realigning the spine, chiropractic care helps restore nerve function, improving overall health and wellness. Reduces Stress and Promotes Relaxation Tension and stress often build up in the body, leading to muscle tightness and discomfort. Chiropractic adjustments help release built-up tension, promoting relaxation and reducing stress levels. Many patients report feeling a sense of relief and improved mental clarity after their adjustments. Enhances Posture and Spinal Health With the rise of desk jobs and excessive screen time, poor posture has become a common issue. Slouching and improper spinal alignment can lead to chronic pain and discomfort. Chiropractic care helps correct posture-related issues by aligning the spine and educating patients on proper body mechanics, reducing strain on the muscles and joints. Holistic and Preventative Care Chiropractic care is not just about treating existing pain—it’s also about preventing future issues. Regular adjustments help maintain spinal health, preventing injuries and reducing the likelihood of chronic pain conditions developing over time. Many people incorporate chiropractic care into their wellness routine as a proactive approach to overall health. Experience the Benefits for Yourself If you’re looking for a natural way to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall well-being, chiropractic care may be the perfect solution for you. By addressing the root cause of discomfort and promoting whole-body health, chiropractic treatments can help you feel your best every day. At Shepherd Chiropractic, we are dedicated to providing personalized, high-quality care to help you achieve optimal health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, pain-free life!