Ask Dr. Dina: Is chiropractic care safe for kids?

The jury is still out on this one—many physicians question whether chiropractic care is effective in treating conditions in children.

Studies have shown that cervical (neck) manipulation or mobilization may provide some short-term relief for kids’ neck pain, but the long-term benefits and risks haven’t been well-established. In adults, there have been several reports of neurological complications (like strokes) arising from neck manipulation. Physicians and the Canadian Paediatric Society need well-designed studies to evaluate whether chiropractic care should be widely recommended for kids with muscular and skeletal problems. We simply don’t have that evidence yet.

If you are considering chiropractic care for your child, please ensure it is cautiously done, and always let your physician know that your child is receiving it. Adjustments should be small and gentle, and adapted to the child. Often this will feel funny to your child, like receiving a massage or small pokes; gentle stretches and exercises are sometimes involved. Chiropractic care should never hurt.

Read more: Alternative medicine: Is it safe for your kids? Ask Dr. Dina: When should I take my child to the ER? If it seems serious, go see a DOCTOR, not a naturopath