In this episode of the Livin’Sky podcast, Lena welcomes Dr. Jessica Harden, a neurologically oriented chiropractic doctor, to discuss the importance of proactive health and the growing trend of individuals seeking alternative health options.

Pediatric chiropractic care is a specialized field that addresses the unique needs of children’s developing nervous systems. Unlike adult chiropractic care, which often focuses on pain relief, pediatric chiropractic emphasizes the overall functional health of children. This approach is particularly important given the rapid development of a child’s nervous system, especially during the early years of life.

Understanding Pediatric Chiropractic Care

1. Developmental Focus: Pediatric chiropractors are trained to assess and treat the specific needs of children, considering their smaller, more flexible bones and the fact that they have not experienced subluxations (misalignments of the vertebrae) for as long as adults. This allows for gentler adjustments that are tailored to the child’s age and condition.
2. Nervous System Health: The primary goal of pediatric chiropractic care is to support the nervous system, which is crucial for a child’s overall health and development. The nervous system controls all bodily functions, and any disruptions can lead to various issues. By addressing these disruptions, chiropractors aim to enhance the child’s ability to perceive their environment and respond appropriately.
3. Functional Issues Beyond Pain: Parents often seek chiropractic care for their children not for pain relief, but because they notice functional issues such as:
4. Digestive Problems: Conditions like constipation or reflux can be addressed through chiropractic adjustments that improve nerve function and vagal tone, essential for digestion.
5. Sleep Disturbances: Many children struggle with sleep, and chiropractic care can help regulate the nervous system, leading to better sleep patterns.
6. Developmental Delays: Children who are not meeting developmental milestones may benefit from chiropractic care, as it can help optimize their nervous system function and support their growth.
7. Preventative Care: Pediatric chiropractic care is not just about addressing existing issues; it also focuses on prevention. By ensuring that a child’s nervous system is functioning optimally from a young age, chiropractors can help lay the foundation for a healthier life. This proactive approach is particularly important given the increasing awareness among parents about the long-term health implications of early interventions.
8. Holistic Approach: Chiropractic care for children often involves collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists and nutritionists. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of a child’s health are considered, leading to more comprehensive care.
9. Early Intervention: The importance of early intervention cannot be overstated. Research indicates that significant development in a child’s nervous system occurs before the age of six, with 90% of myelination (the process that helps nerves transmit signals efficiently) completed by age two. This highlights the critical window for addressing any potential issues through chiropractic care.

In conclusion, pediatric chiropractic care is a vital resource for addressing the unique needs of children’s developing nervous systems. By focusing on functional health rather than just pain relief, chiropractors can help children thrive in various aspects of their lives, from digestion and sleep to overall developmental progress. This holistic and preventative approach not only supports immediate health concerns but also lays the groundwork for a healthier future.

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Time Stamps:

[00:01:39] Pediatric chiropractic care differences.

[00:05:10] Pediatric chiropractic benefits.

[00:08:10] Health crisis in children.

[00:10:05] Importance of early diagnosis.

[00:14:00] Antibiotics and gut health.

[00:17:40] Breastfeeding challenges and solutions.

[00:21:40] Chiropractic care during pregnancy.

[00:25:05] Chiropractic care and fertility.

[00:27:40] Preconception health preparation importance.

[00:29:32] Postpartum care support importance.

[00:36:00] Thermography and autonomic nervous system.

[00:38:17] Healing versus symptoms distinction.

[00:40:11] Health recovery timelines for patients.

[00:45:48] Chiropractic experience and skepticism.

[00:47:22] Subluxation is life altering.

[00:51:05] Success stories of chiropractic care.

[00:54:00] Health improvement through gratitude.

[00:56:22] Self-care for parents’ health.

[01:01:10] Community support for health changes.

[01:03:04] Vetting health information sources.