January 27, 2019

The first years of a child’s life are filled with rapid growth, development, and important milestones. At Functional Health Unlimited in Woodbury, Minnesota, I emphasize the importance of pediatric chiropractic care from birth to support proper spinal alignment, nervous system function, and long-term health.

During the first two years of life, a child’s spine nearly doubles in length, and approximately 65% of brain and nervous system development occurs within the first year. Because the nervous system controls every function in the body, I believe early support during this critical developmental window can play a vital role in a child’s overall wellness.

 

 

How the Birth Process Can Impact an Infant’s Spine and Nervous System

Even under normal, natural circumstances, the birth process can place stress on an infant’s delicate spine and cranial structures. In my practice, I often see how certain factors during birth may contribute to physical strain, including:

• Poor head positioning during descent through the birth canal

• Prolonged or very rapid labor

• Limited cervical dilation

• Medications used to intensify contractions

• Forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery

• Cesarean (C-section) delivery

These stresses can affect spinal alignment and nervous system communication, which may influence a child’s comfort, mobility, and development if left unaddressed.

Understanding C-Section Birth and Cranial Stress

Cesarean deliveries can involve greater physical stress on an infant’s head and neck than many parents realize. Without the natural compressive forces of the birth canal and uterine contractions, manual extraction during a C-section may increase strain on the cranial and cervical structures.

Research involving more than 1,500 infants has shown:

• Only 10% had perfectly mobile cranial structures

• 10% showed severe cranial trauma visible to untrained observers

• 80% demonstrated some degree of cranial strain patterns

These findings reinforce why I recommend early evaluation by a chiropractor trained in pediatric care—regardless of delivery method.

 

 

Why Pediatric Chiropractic Care Matters

Misshapen head patterns, including flattening at the back of the skull (plagiocephaly), are becoming increasingly common. In my experience, gentle, age-appropriate chiropractic care provided by a pediatric-trained chiropractor can help support healthy development of the spine, skull, and nervous system.

In my practice, I use specialized pediatric chiropractic techniques to:

• Support spinal and cranial alignment

• Promote optimal nervous system function

• Encourage healthy growth and development

• Help babies and children adapt more effectively to physical stress

Pediatric Chiropractic Care in Woodbury & the Twin Cities

I believe every child deserves the best possible start in life by addressing spinal and nervous system health early. If you’re looking for pediatric chiropractic care in Woodbury, MN or the greater Minneapolis–St. Paul area, my team and I at Functional Health Unlimited are here to support your family.

Functional Health Unlimited – Woodbury, MN
Contact us today to schedule your free pediatric consultation

Dr. Lori Jokinen, DC, CACCP, CFMP
Pediatric • Prenatal • Functional Chiropractic Care
Serving Woodbury, MN & the Twin Cities Metro Area