Paediatric Chiropractor on the Gold Coast
At Zest Chiropractic, we love welcoming babies, children and teens into the practice. In fact, about 30% of the patients Dr Laura and Dr Scott (Chiropractors) see each week are children, from newborns through to teenagers. Our whole team is experienced and comfortable working with young patients and their families.
Why Do Children See a Chiropractor?
As kids grow, their bodies are exposed to different physical demands. Learning to walk, sitting at a desk, carrying a school bag, playing sport, using digital devices and the occasional tumble can all place demands on their muscles and joints.
Parents may choose to have their child assessed by a chiropractor when they have musculoskeletal concerns involving areas such as the back, neck, joints or posture.
An assessment allows the chiropractor to learn more about the child’s symptoms, movement and physical function and determine whether chiropractic care may be suitable. If chiropractic care isn’t indicated or another type of assessment is needed, an appropriate referral may be recommended.
Why Might Parents Bring a Baby to a Chiropractor?
A baby’s first year involves significant physical change as they progress through milestones such as tummy time, rolling, crawling, standing and walking. Parents may seek an assessment when they notice musculoskeletal concerns such as a persistent preference for turning the head one way or restricted neck movement.
Parents may also mention feeding, sleep or unsettled behaviour when discussing their baby’s overall health history. These concerns can have many causes and aren’t assumed to be related to the spine or suitable for chiropractic care.
When a baby visits Zest Chiropractic, the chiropractor assesses whether there are musculoskeletal findings relevant to chiropractic care. Any care recommended is adapted to the baby’s age, size and individual presentation.
Is Chiropractic Safe for Babies and Children?
It’s understandable for parents to have questions about the risks and benefits of any healthcare provided to their child.
In 2019, Safer Care Victoria reviewed chiropractic spinal care for children under 12, drawing on research literature, insurance claims and 21,824 public submissions from parents and guardians. In the public consultation, 99.7% of respondents reported a positive experience and 98% reported that they believed their child had improved after treatment.
These figures reflect experiences reported by parents and guardians and don’t mean chiropractic care is risk-free or that every child will have the same outcome.
Musculoskeletal Concerns We Assess in Children
School-aged kids and teenagers may be assessed for musculoskeletal concerns such as:
- Back or neck discomfort
- Posture-related concerns
- Headaches where there may be a musculoskeletal component
- Movement, balance or coordination concerns
- Musculoskeletal discomfort associated with sport or physical activity
The first step is an assessment to determine what may be related to the child’s musculoskeletal system and whether chiropractic care is suitable.
Meet Our Experienced Team
Get to Know Dr Laura Priestley
Founder & Chiropractor
Dr Laura has completed postgraduate paediatric studies through Inspiral Paediatrics and Elevate Paediatrics, building on the paediatric education included in her chiropractic training. She has a particular interest in working with young families and discussing everyday factors that can affect children’s musculoskeletal health, including school backpacks and screen-time habits.
Get to Know Dr Scott Vatcher
Senior Chiropractor & Director of Patient Care
Dr Scott holds a Diplomate in Clinical Chiropractic Paediatrics (DICCP), a two-year postgraduate qualification focused on the care of infants and children. He completed his original Doctor of Chiropractic degree at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College.
With more than 20 years in practice, Dr Scott has cared for patients from newborns through to elite athletes. Paediatric and pregnancy care remain particular areas of professional interest for him.
What We Look at When Assessing Babies
For babies, the focus of chiropractic assessment is on musculoskeletal function. Parents may seek an assessment if they notice concerns such as restricted neck movement, a persistent preference for turning the head in one direction or torticollis.
Parents may also discuss concerns such as feeding difficulties, unsettled sleep or general fussiness as part of their baby’s broader health history. These symptoms can have many possible causes, and their presence doesn’t mean chiropractic care is indicated. Where appropriate, families may be advised to seek assessment from their GP, paediatrician, maternal and child health nurse or another healthcare practitioner.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit
Kids have separate paperwork, and their examination is adapted to their age and reason for visiting. This may include balance and neurological testing as well as scoliosis screening. Comfortable, sports-style clothing can make it easier for children to move during their assessment.
Dr Laura and Dr Scott take the time to explain what the’re assessing in language both kids and parents can follow. Any recommendations are based on the child’s history, examination findings, age and stage of development.
Techniques are also modified for younger patients. Dr Laura, for example, doesn’t use manual adjusting techniques with children under about 8 years old.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chiropractic care appropriate during pregnancy?
I’m nervous about being adjusted while pregnant. What should I know?
Why see a chiropractor if I’m not in pain?
What is the Webster Technique?
When should I bring my newborn in?
Do I need to keep coming in after my baby is born?
How long will I need care?
Schedule Your Child’s First Visit
If you’d like to find out whether a chiropractic assessment may be suitable for your child’s needs, contact Zest Chiropractic to book an appointment.
