Chiropractic Care for Children: What Parents Should Know
Has your child mentioned a sore back after sport, a stiff neck or discomfort carrying a school bag? It’s understandable to wonder who can assess it and whether chiropractic care is appropriate. For children, the first priority is working out what’s behind the concern—not assuming they need an adjustment.
When might a child need an assessment?
Back or neck discomfort can follow sport, falls, heavy activity or everyday routines. Sometimes the symptoms need a medical assessment rather than hands-on treatment. Your child’s GP is a sensible starting point for unexplained, persistent or worsening pain, particularly in younger children.
If you’ve already discussed a specific musculoskeletal concern with your child’s doctor, you can ask what other assessment or care options might be relevant. For related background, see our articles about back comfort during everyday chores and arm and leg discomfort.
Does every child need chiropractic care?
No. Being active, growing or using a backpack does not mean a child needs routine spinal adjustments. Chiropractic treatment should only be considered for a specific problem following an age-appropriate assessment, with a clear explanation of the available options.
Chiropractic care should not be advertised as a treatment for ear infections, behavioural difficulties, immune problems or developmental concerns. Those concerns belong with a GP or appropriate child-health specialist.
What happens at a consultation?
A clinician may ask about your child’s symptoms, health history, physical activity and relevant injuries, then examine what is appropriate for their age and presentation. You and your child should be able to ask questions and understand what the findings mean.
When a procedure is considered, the practitioner should explain what it involves and why it may be suitable, including other options such as exercise advice, no treatment or referral. An adjustment isn’t an automatic part of an assessment.
What about babies and very young children?
Infants have different needs from older children and adults. The Chiropractic Board of Australia advises against spinal manipulation of children under two years of age. If you are concerned about a baby’s feeding, crying, sleep, development or health, your GP, child-health nurse or paediatrician is the appropriate starting point.
What if you’re concerned about scoliosis or posture?
A noticeable change in a child’s back shape or concerns about spinal curvature deserve appropriate assessment. A posture photograph cannot establish a diagnosis, and a chiropractic adjustment should not be presented as a way to straighten a structural spinal curve. Our guide to scoliosis and assessment considerations provides further background.
Parents planning for a new baby may also find our article about pregnancy-related musculoskeletal concerns useful.
Questions worth asking before any treatment
- What did the assessment suggest could explain my child’s symptoms?
- Is chiropractic care appropriate, or should we see our GP or another clinician?
- What evidence supports the proposed approach for my child’s age and concern?
- What are the alternatives if we prefer not to have hands-on treatment?
- What would the visit cost, and is any treatment optional?
What to expect at MyChiro
MyChiro is based in Bondi Junction. Dr Steven Lockstone (Chiropractor) can discuss whether the concern you describe falls within chiropractic assessment or would be better directed to another health professional. For children, suitability and any care decision must be assessed individually.
For new patients, the initial consultation is free and includes assessment and advice. If treatment is clinically appropriate and you choose to proceed, same-day treatment is available for $125. There is no obligation to have treatment.
You can view available initial consultation appointments, or speak with the clinic first if you’re unsure whether the appointment is suitable for your child.