How Pediatric Chiropractic Can Boost Your Child's Development
Why Pediatric Chiropractic Deserves a Closer Look
October is National Chiropractic Health Month—a perfect time to talk about one of the most overlooked and transformative forms of care: pediatric chiropractic. If the idea of chiropractic care for babies or kids feels surprising to you, you're not alone. Most people associate chiropractic with back pain or stiff necks—not with colic, sleep problems, or developmental milestones.
But what if we told you that the same gentle care that helps adults feel and function better can also support your child's growth, coordination, immune system, and focus? That's not marketing. That's neurology.
At The Upper Cervical Clinic, Dr. Larry Burks provides highly specific, non-invasive chiropractic care for children—from newborns to teens—who are facing a range of physical or developmental challenges. Even for kids who seem perfectly healthy, pediatric chiropractic can lay a powerful foundation for healthy posture, improved sleep, reduced meltdowns, and lifelong wellness. It's not about "fixing" kids—it's about supporting their natural ability to thrive.
The Science Behind Early Spinal Alignment
The spine does more than keep us upright—it's the protective channel for the central nervous system, the body's main communication highway. In children, whose brains and bodies are developing at lightning speed, even small spinal misalignments can interfere with how signals travel between the brain and the body.
Upper cervical misalignments—especially near the brainstem—can subtly disrupt motor coordination, digestion, sleep cycles, and immune responses. These disruptions often don't cause pain in kids, which is why they're easy to miss. Instead, they may show up as:
Trouble sleeping or staying asleep
Frequent ear infections
Poor digestion or reflux
Delayed milestones (rolling, crawling, walking)
Sensory overwhelm or behavioral meltdowns
This isn't theoretical. Research from the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) and National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association (NUCCA) shows that children with specific spinal misalignments often experience measurable improvement in both symptoms and nervous system function after care. Gentle chiropractic doesn't "treat" a condition—it helps restore communication within the body so it can heal and regulate itself more effectively.
And here's the most important thing: early alignment lays the foundation for lifelong nervous system balance. It's far easier to support a growing spine than to undo years of stress later in life.
Common Issues Pediatric Chiropractic Can Support
Parents are often amazed when they find out how many childhood challenges are connected to nervous system function—and how responsive kids can be to chiropractic care. Some of the most common reasons families seek help from Dr. Burks include:
1. Birth Trauma and Newborn Misalignments
Even the smoothest birth can involve compression and twisting that affect the baby's neck and upper spine. C-sections, forceps, vacuum extraction, or long labor can increase the risk. Babies may show signs through latching difficulty, torticollis (head tilt), reflux, or constant fussiness.
2. Colic, Digestive Trouble, and Reflux
The vagus nerve, which controls digestion, exits the skull at the top of the spine. If there's tension or misalignment in that region, it can affect how the digestive system functions. Restoring balance here has helped many babies feel more comfortable, without the need for medication.
3. Recurring Ear Infections
Chiropractic doesn't replace medical treatment, but can support natural drainage of the Eustachian tubes by improving spinal and muscular alignment in the neck and jaw region. This is especially helpful for children who are prone to fluid buildup and inflammation.
4. Developmental Delays
Whether it's gross motor skills such as crawling and walking, or fine motor coordination, spinal health influences movement. Misalignments may disrupt proprioception (body awareness) and vestibular integration (balance). Specific chiropractic adjustments help to recalibrate these systems.
5. Postural Shifts and Screen Time Fatigue
Today's kids spend hours slumped over tablets and phones. This type of poor posture can strain the neck and upper back, which can often lead to compensation patterns and even chronic tension. Chiropractic care can help children establish better alignment habits from an early age.
6. Behavioral and Emotional Regulation
Parents are often unaware that kids with a nervous system imbalance may be more reactive, irritable, or prone to meltdowns. Chiropractic doesn't change personality—but it can remove physical stress that amplifies emotional response. Many parents report that their children become calmer and more focused after care begins.
How Pediatric Chiropractic Differs from Adult Care
One of the biggest concerns parents have is whether chiropractic care is safe for their child. The answer is yes—when it's done by a trained, pediatric-aware provider like Dr. Burks. Pediatric chiropractic is not a "mini" version of adult care. It's a completely different approach.
Gentle, Specific, Non-Thrust Techniques
At The Upper Cervical Clinic, Dr. Burks uses precise adjustments tailored to your child's size, anatomy, and stage of development. He often uses his fingertips to apply light pressure—similar to the pressure you'd use to check the ripeness of a peach. There's no popping, cracking, or twisting. In fact, most babies sleep through the adjustment.
The NUCCA and KCUCS Approach
Dr. Burks specializes in NUCCA (National Upper Cervical Chiropractic Association) and Knee, Chest Upper Cervical Specific techniques—both of which are low-force, evidence-based, and perfect for pediatric care. These methods focus on adjusting the alignment of the top vertebrae (C1 and C2), which directly impact the brainstem and neurological function.
Because children's spines are more flexible and responsive than adults', results often come quickly—and the body holds the adjustment longer. There's no need for high-frequency visits or aggressive intervention. It's about nudging the body back to balance and letting nature do the rest.
Customized Care Plans, Not Cookie-Cutter Protocols
Every child is different. Dr. Burks evaluates posture, reflexes, muscle tone, and neurological function to create a care plan tailored to your child's needs—not a generic template. And he works collaboratively with parents to make sure care fits into your family's lifestyle and values.
What to Expect at Your Child's First Visit
Coming to a chiropractor for the first time can be nerve-wracking for parents and kids alike. That's why Dr. Burks prioritizes creating a warm, relaxed environment where kids can feel safe and curious—not scared.
Here's what a typical pediatric first visit looks like at The Upper Cervical Clinic:
1. A Gentle Conversation
Dr. Burks begins by listening. He'll ask about your child's health history, birth experience, developmental milestones, diet, sleep patterns, and anything else that might be relevant to the child's care.
2. Neurological and Posture Evaluation
Using kid-friendly techniques, Dr. Burks will check your child's posture, balance, spinal alignment, and reflexes. For infants, he may observe head rotation, muscle tone, and visual tracking, while simple movement tests can help guide care for older kids.
3. Upper Cervical Imaging
If symptoms are persistent, a low-dose, high-precision digital X-ray of the upper cervical spine may be recommended. These images give precise measurements for safe, targeted adjustments when needed.
4. A First Adjustment (If Appropriate)
If misalignment is found and it's safe to proceed, your child may receive their first adjustment that same day. Many children feel calmer, more relaxed, and better able to sleep even after their very first visit.
5. Clear Communication
Dr. Burks always explains what he's doing in language parents (and kids!) can understand. You'll leave with a clear understanding of what was found, what to expect, and how often you'll need to return.
From Infancy to Adolescence: Why Spinal Alignment Supports Every Stage of Growth
Pediatric chiropractic care isn't just about fixing aches—it's about supporting your child's development from the inside out. From the moment your child enters the world, their nervous system is working overtime to process sensory input, develop movement patterns, and adapt to new environments. Because the spine houses and guards the spinal cord, even small misalignments can interfere with how clearly the brain and body communicate.
When we talk about gentle chiropractic care for kids, especially at The Upper Cervical Clinic, we're not talking about "cracking" or force. Techniques like NUCCA and KCUCS use light, precise adjustments that are safe even for newborns. And the benefits? They evolve as your child grows.
Infants (0–12 Months): Starting Life Aligned
Birth, even under ideal conditions, is physically intense for both baby and parent. Sometimes the baby's neck or spine experiences mild tension from delivery—even more so during C‑sections or assisted births.
Upper cervical adjustments at this stage can:
Improve breastfeeding and latch by reducing tension in the jaw or neck
Ease colic and digestive upset by calming the nervous system
Support better sleep cycles and reduce irritability
Encourage balanced head shape and prevent early asymmetries (like torticollis or flat head)
One study published by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) found that chiropractic care in infants was associated with improvements in nursing, sleep, and comfort, with an exceptionally low risk of adverse effects【Source: Alcantara et al., ICPA, 2009】.
Toddlers (1–3 Years): Growing, Climbing, Exploring
As toddlers begin to walk, run, and climb, they're also falling—a lot. While most bumps are harmless, accumulated tumbles can cause subtle shifts in spinal alignment that affect posture and motor development.
Chiropractic at this age can help:
Encourage better balance and coordination
Support immune regulation and reduce the frequency of illness
Ease recurrent ear infections by improving drainage through spinal alignment
Reduce sensory overwhelm by helping the nervous system regulate stimuli more smoothly
Parents often report that their toddlers are "calmer" and more settled after adjustments, which makes sense when we consider how much spinal tension can affect mood and sensory processing.
Preschool & School-Age Children (4–12 Years): Posture and Focus in the Classroom
Children in this age group spend more time sitting, carrying backpacks, and using devices. This combination can lead to "tech neck," slouching, and early postural changes.
Pediatric chiropractic care here focuses on:
Promoting healthy posture during school and screen time
Supporting attention and focus by reducing physical discomfort or tension
Helping prevent chronic issues from poor ergonomics or heavy bags
Boosting immune resilience during the school year
Many families are surprised to learn that improving spinal alignment can help with seemingly unrelated issues like disrupted sleep, fatigue, or emotional dysregulation. When the spine is better aligned, everything from digestion to focus improves.
Teens & Adolescents (13–18 Years): Staying Aligned During Growth Spurts
During adolescence, the body is changing fast—hormonally, physically, and emotionally. Growth spurts can lead to uneven development, awkward posture, and stress and strain on the spine and joints. Combine that with sports, heavy backpacks, social stress, and screens, and the body is under real pressure.
Chiropractic adjustments in teens can:
Reduce tension headaches and shoulder strain
Help with posture-related fatigue and neck pain from device use
Support injury recovery for student-athletes without relying on medication
Encourage confidence in body awareness and reduce emotional stress through nervous system regulation.
Adolescents often respond quickly to care when they learn how their posture and alignment influence how they feel. It not only gives them relief but also lifelong wellness tools.
Questions from Parents
Is it safe to adjust a baby's spine?
Yes. Pediatric chiropractic care is incredibly gentle. The amount of pressure used is often less than what you'd use to check the ripeness of a tomato. Techniques are specific, safe, and never forceful. At The Upper Cervical Clinic, Dr. Burks is trained in age-appropriate methods that respect the delicacy of growing bodies.
How early should I bring my child in?
Many parents bring their newborns in within days or weeks of birth—especially if labor was long, involved forceps/vacuum, or if the baby seems fussy, tense, or asymmetrical. That said, it's never too late. Kids of all ages can benefit.
Does it hurt? Will my child be scared?
No and no. Most children are fascinated by their visits—and many relax so deeply during an adjustment that they fall asleep. Dr. Burks has a gift for making kids feel safe, heard, and respected.
Do we have to come forever?
Not at all. While some families choose ongoing wellness care because they see consistent benefits, there's no pressure to commit to long-term plans. You'll always be given a personalized recommendation—and your choice will always be respected.
Can chiropractic replace my pediatrician?
Chiropractors are not a substitute for your child's primary healthcare provider. But they do play a powerful complementary role. Think of it as a team approach: the pediatrician oversees medical care, and Dr. Burks supports neurological and musculoskeletal health—both of which impact immunity, development, and function.
Raising Resilient, Aligned Kids—One Adjustment at a Time
As a parent, you want to give your child every advantage possible. You want them to grow up strong, confident, and equipped to face whatever life throws their way. Pediatric chiropractic care is one of the most natural, safe, and effective ways to support that vision—right from the beginning.
At The Upper Cervical Clinic, Dr. Larry Burks partners with families in the Portland metro area who value proactive, heart-centered healthcare. His mission is simple: to help children live in alignment with their fullest potential—physically, emotionally, and neurologically.
Whether your child is struggling with a specific issue or you're simply curious about how to support their development, chiropractic care could be the gentle nudge that sets their growth on a healthier path.
Because the earlier we care for the nervous system, the more powerfully we set the stage for a lifetime of well-being.
