A baby’s spine also differs from an adult in proportion to the head. A baby’s head tends to be oversized and needs spinal and muscle growth to enable better support and bracing capabilities. Instability in the spine requires underdeveloped neck muscles to carry a greater load when supporting the oversized head. These factors do not represent a flaw in development, but a design and function more sophisticated than the world’s most advanced supercomputers. The infant spine began successfully supporting and protecting newborns thousands of years ago. Modern science simply developed into an academic understanding of the importance of spinal health and alignment from birth into adulthood.

A child’s neck represents the most common location of spinal injury. Chiropractors locate and correct small neck injuries in children caused by falls, sports, accidents, and general rambunctious play. The most predominant type of neck injury occurs to a baby’s neck and spine through the trauma of the birthing process. Labor, delivery, and pregnancy factors also play into the risk and cause of neck trauma as an infant’s transition from the cramped womb and birth canal into mother’s arms.

A 2015 study found a variety of factors which led to higher risk of injury during birth. Factors include maternal pelvic mobility (the mother’s pelvic alignment and movement), type of labor, number of births for the mother, fetal head delivery, labor augmentation, caesarean delivery, and duration of labor. The most startling finding from the study correlated the duration of labor to an increased risk of spinal dysfunction in newborns. Longer labor and delivery revealed more areas of injury to the baby’s spine. The upper neck represents the most commonly compromised location of spinal birth trauma. Even normal labor and deliveries assumed to be without complication still result in neck problems for newborns.

Chiropractors specialize in the detection and correction of subtle, yet significant injuries related to birth trauma. Most birth trauma and injuries go undiscovered and unaddressed by pediatricians and delivery specialists because babies cannot express a source of pain, irritation, or discomfort. Neck problems within a fragile and flexible infant do not usually manifest as pain. The spinal stress usually presents through altered neurological function which develops in the form of ear infections, colic, or nursing challenges. The study made very clear that the identification and treatment of altered spinal and neurological dysfunction led to improved health in newborns.

Chiropractors specialize in detecting and correcting areas of misalignment and reduced motion in the spine for all ages – infants to adults. A baby’s spinal size certainly measures smaller than that of an adult, but an incredible number of similarities also exist between these precious bundles of nerves. Regular Chiropractic care for the whole family improves spinal and neurological function, mobility, and whole-body health. An optimally functioning spine represents an invaluable source of life and vitality for infants, children, and adults. Chiropractic works for the entire family.

The post Why Babies & Children Need Chiropractic Attention… Study shows longer labor time leads to higher risks first appeared on Chiropractor Broken Arrow.

Don’t fret! This is the perfect season to keep kids active and increase your own fitness level as well. Make a deal with your children that this summer will be the healthiest and most fun one yet, then brainstorm together for activity ideas. To help get you started, here are a few activities to add to your list.

Park-a-Palooza

Dedicate one day each week of the summer to Park-a-Palooza! Pick multiple parks you love or have always wanted to visit and hit them hard. Set your timers for 30 minutes at each, then move on to the next one! Pack H20, healthy snacks and a blanket so you can break when hunger strikes.

Family Dance

TV shows like Dancing with the Stars are as popular as ever, so join in on the fun and have the whole family learn to dance this summer. Check out videos at your local library or surf YouTube for free lessons. Check out the fantastic, interactive dance video games available for all age levels via Wii and Xbox. And don’t forget to practice your new skills at a weekly Friday night Family Dance Party!

Go Old School

The games of your youth will slip away unless you teach them to your kids! Sure, they may already know tag and hopscotch, but what about Kick the Can, Sardines, Red Rover, Four Square, Mother May I? and Capture the Flag? Don’t remember all the rules? A few quick clicks on Google will lead you right to them. Invite the neighborhood to “Old School Game Night” and you’re sure to make—and rekindle—some awesome childhood memories.

Family Bike Rides

Bike riding as a family is a fantastic way to exercise and spend time together. Take your first few journeys at different times of the day to see what works best in terms of family mood and lighter traffic. Ensure everyone’s tires are full of air, their helmets fit and you have water bottles in tow.

Camping

If your kids love the outdoors, s’mores and the idea of sleeping under the stars, it’s time for a family campout. But no need to travel, camping can be an adventure in your own backyard or the yard of a willing friend. If your children are old enough, consider letting them spend an entire day and night outdoors as if they were at a campground. Have them create the plan for the items they’ll need to spend a day in the “wilderness.” You’ll be amazed at just how creative and resourceful your kids can be.

Walkabout

There’s nothing better than ending the day with a leisurely family walk. Keeping kids active can also be fun. Take turns hitting the pavement with each of your children—they’ll love the one-on-one time and you’ll love this low key way to learn about what’s going on in their lives. At least once a week, venture out as a family. You’ll be surprised at the personal connections the whole family makes when out of the house, enjoying nature and staying fit together.

The post Keep Kids Active, Moving and Engaged All Summer Long first appeared on Chiropractor Broken Arrow.