Chiroblog

Poor posture is a common condition of growing concern, especially among children. Recent studies show that about 70% of children exhibit some form of postural deviation, such as scoliosis, hyperkyphosis, or hyperlordosis[1]. This rise is largely due to modern lifestyle factors, including increased screen time, prolonged sitting, and carrying heavy backpacks incorrectly[1]. Poor posture can contribute to various health issues, including back pain, reduced lung capacity, and even digestive problems. It's important to address these issues early to prevent long-term consequences.

Chiropractic care is an incredible resource that can offer help children with poor posture. Chiropractic adjustments can help correct postural misalignments and improve overall spinal health[2]. Chiropractors use gentle techniques tailored to children's needs, aiming to restore proper spinal alignment and nervous system function. Parents have reported improvements in their children's posture and a reduction in related health issues after receiving chiropractic care[2]. One teenager told us that after a few weeks of chiropractic care, he had to change the position of his rear view mirror in his car since he was now sitting up so much taller! Chiropractic care can be a valuable complementary approach to managing poor posture in children.

References

[1] Risk Factors Involved in Postural Disorders in Children and ... - MDPI

[2] Retrospective review of case records of school-aged ...

Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections (PANDAS) and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS) are conditions that can cause sudden behavioral disturbances in children. PANDAS is specifically linked to streptococcal (“strep”) infection while PANS can result from a broad number of potential triggers, such as other viruses, bacteria, fungi, mold, and even allergic reactions. Experts believe these conditions to be linked to inflammation in certain parts of the brain, particularly in the area that controls movement, decision-making, and emotion [1,2]. If infection leads to an abnormal immune response — where the immune system mistakenly attacks neural cells — it can result in causing a significant change in the child’s behavior that is known as PANDAS or PANS.

Children’s symptoms manifest seemingly overnight, and an episode causes personality or behavioral changes. These may show up in the form of obsessive-compulsive behaviors, motor or verbal tics, nervousness, separation anxiety, motor or sensory abnormalities, irritability, difficulty focusing, and appetite changes. These symptoms can be severe, affecting performance in school and dynamics at home [1,2].

Awareness of these conditions and their triggers is important for parents, caregivers, and healthcare providers to prepare for and manage symptoms in the best way possible. So many families are affected by this sudden change in behavior and have no idea what is going on with their child.  PANDAS or PANS might be the explanation, and pediatric chiropractic care combined with improved diet and neurological exercises can be the difference maker in these kids.  We have taken care of many children with PANDAS and PANS and have watched their little brains and nerve systems calm down and they become themselves again. 

References

[1] PANDAS/PANS in childhood: Controversies and evidence

[2] Current Research Updates on PANDAS and PANS - Springer

Tourette's syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary tics and is becoming more prevalent among children and teens. Recent studies have shown an increase in the diagnosis of Tourette's syndrome and tic disorders, with estimates suggesting that around 1 in 100 school-aged children have this disorder [1]

This rise is in part due to better awareness and improved diagnostic analysis. Tourette's syndrome is rooted in the nervous system characterized by abnormalities in certain brain regions and neurotransmitter systems that control movement and behavior [2].  These neurological differences can lead to the sudden, repetitive movements or sounds known as tics, which can vary in severity and frequency.

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive approach that could help calm the symptoms of Tourette's syndrome by focusing on spinal alignment and nervous system function. Chiropractors use manual or instrument-based adjustments to correct spinal misalignments and therefore, improve nerve communication and overall body function. Some studies have shown that chiropractic care may reduce the frequency and intensity of tics in individuals with Tourette's syndrome [3].

Chiropractic care may potentially provide relief and improve the quality of life for those affected. By addressing the neurological aspects of the disorder, chiropractic care offers a conservative approach to managing Tourette's syndrome and its associated symptoms.  We have seen children with both tic disorders as well as Tourette's syndrome show significant improvement through gentle pediatric chiropractic adjustments combined with neurological exercises.  

References

[1] Tourette Syndrome and Tic Disorders | Pediatrics In Review ...

[2] Tourette Syndrome - National Institute of Neurological Disorders

[3] Reduction of Motor Tics in Two Male Patients Undergoing Chiropractic Care: A Case Series