Ponte Vedra, FL -- Twisting, turning and squeezing through a tiny porthole to cry your first breaths in this world is what some doctors call a traumatic experience for newborns.
Though they recover quickly and never remember the milestone, some babies' bodies bear a lasting mark from their delivery day.
"Especially in the neck, there can be a bone that's shifted out of place during delivery," explained Dr. Erika Hamer, "and the communication to the brain where the nerve may be pinched could result in crying, colic or other conditions."
Dr. Hamer is a Florida chiropractor who often treats infants in her office.
"It doesn't take may treatments for babies because they haven't had years of problems building up in their bodies," Dr. Hamer said, "and just a few treatments of care mean less problems later in life."
Dr. Hamer said chiropractic treatments for infants and babies are usually just 5 to 10 minutes long, and
As a chiropractor, Dr. Hamer said she examines the body as a whole, paying close attention to the nervous system.
You can see an example of techniques Dr. Hamer uses on babies by clicking here.
If you think chiropractic treatments might benefit your baby, Dr. Hamer said there are several questions you should ask when looking for a good doctor:
1) Does the chiropractor treat babies, and how many have they treated?
2) Has the chiropractor been given extra education in the fields of pediatrics or infant care?
3) What techniques does the chiropractor use on babies? Do they differ from the treatment for older children and adults?
4) How open is the doctor to talking with you as the parent of a potential patient?
Finally, if the staff person answering the phone seems unsure about chiropractic treatment for babies, Dr. Hamer suggested you be sure to speak with the doctor directly.
WJXX/WLTV