Babies also have a spine that is subject to various influences, and they too can experience discomfort originating in the spine. Sometimes the cause can be traced back to the birth itself or the position of the baby in the womb. Because your baby cannot tell you where the discomfort is, it is expressed in other ways. Signs that may suggest spinal irritation include:
- Excessive crying
- Irritability, restlessness or being easily startled
- Clenched fists
- Spitting up / reflux
- Arching the back
- Preferential head position
- Restless or short sleep
- Reaching for the ears or the back of the head
- Difficulty tolerating feeding
- Delays in developmental milestones (rolling, crawling, walking, etc.)
If you recognise any of the above, it may be a good idea to have your baby checked by a chiropractor.
Treatment
Treatment is of course adapted to the vulnerability of a baby. Chiropractic treatment for infants is safe and consists of gentle pressure techniques and light mobilisation. The pressure used is no more than the comfortable pressure you would apply to your own closed eyelid. Babies of all ages can be treated.