Childhood is a time of exploration, movement, and rapid development. From learning to crawl to playing sports, each stage of growth introduces unique physical challenges. These milestones, while essential, can also contribute to spinal misalignments, postural changes, and nervous system stress—especially as kids fall, stumble, and adapt to new physical demands. Pediatric chiropractic care offers a safe, gentle, and effective approach to supporting your child’s health from infancy through adolescence.
At Newbold Chiropractic in Half Moon Bay, CA, Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC specializes in providing family-centered care for children across the coast, including El Granada, Moss Beach, and Montara. Whether it’s your child’s first check-up or a post-sports injury treatment, chiropractic care can help ensure their spine and nervous system function at their best.
Who Can Benefit from Pediatric Chiropractic Care?
Pediatric chiropractic care can benefit children of all ages and health levels. Parents are increasingly turning to chiropractic for help with both specific health concerns and general wellness. Here's a breakdown of how children in different age groups may benefit:
Infants (0–12 months)
- Birth trauma can cause misalignments in the cervical spine.
- Chiropractic adjustments may help reduce colic, promote better sleep, and improve nursing and digestion.
- Gentle spinal care can support nervous system development.
Toddlers (1–3 years)
- As toddlers learn to walk and explore, they experience frequent falls and bumps.
- Early chiropractic care can support coordination, balance, and structural development.
- Common concerns like ear infections and digestive issues may be alleviated.
Preschool and School-Aged Children (4–12 years)
- Carrying heavy backpacks, using digital devices, and sitting for long hours can affect posture.
- Children with recurring headaches, growing pains, scoliosis, and constipation may find relief.
- Chiropractic adjustments support healthy spinal alignment and immune function.
Teenagers (13–18 years)
- Adolescents experience growth spurts, sports injuries, stress, and hormonal changes.
- Chiropractic care can reduce pain from scoliosis, sports strain, and postural imbalances.
- Regular adjustments may enhance athletic performance and aid in mental clarity and sleep quality.
A 2015 study by Alcantara et al. found that chiropractic care in children is widely reported by parents and practitioners to be both safe and effective, particularly for musculoskeletal complaints, ear infections, and colic .
What Is Pediatric Chiropractic Care?
Chiropractic care for children is distinct from adult care. Pediatric chiropractors use gentle, modified techniques specifically tailored to a child’s smaller body and developing spine. These techniques may include:
- Light fingertip pressure
- Activator instruments for low-force adjustments
- Cranial work for infants
- Flexion-distraction techniques for teens with scoliosis or disc issues
Pediatric adjustments are subtle and calming—often likened to the pressure used to test a ripe peach.
Common issues addressed in pediatric chiropractic care include:
- Colic and reflux
- Torticollis and flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly)
- Bedwetting and constipation
- Ear infections
- Frequent colds
- Asthma and allergies
- Sports injuries
- Scoliosis and posture-related discomfort
These treatments aim to optimize nervous system function, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing processes—without drugs or surgery.
Where and When to Seek Chiropractic Care for Kids
If you live in Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Moss Beach, or Montara, CA, Newbold Chiropractic provides a welcoming and child-friendly environment for pediatric care. Parents often wonder when they should bring their child in for chiropractic treatment. Here are some helpful guidelines:
- After Birth: Newborns can benefit from a gentle spinal evaluation to address any trauma from delivery.
- During Milestones: When your child begins to crawl, walk, or transition to school, it's a good time to assess spinal alignment.
- After Injury: Whether it’s a fall on the playground, a sports injury, or a car accident, prompt chiropractic care can help prevent long-term issues.
- When Symptoms Arise: Chronic ear infections, poor sleep, digestive discomfort, or behavioral changes may indicate spinal or nervous system dysfunction.
Routine chiropractic visits—even without symptoms—help ensure optimal growth, balanced movement, and resilience to illness.
Why Choose Chiropractic Care for Your Child?
Your child’s spine protects their nervous system, which governs everything from immunity to digestion to focus. A misalignment in the spine (called a subluxation) can disrupt communication between the brain and body, potentially leading to various health complaints. Pediatric chiropractic care can help restore this vital communication network.
Here are key reasons to consider chiropractic care for your child:
1. Drug-Free Wellness
Many common pediatric issues are treated with medication, which can carry side effects. Chiropractic care offers a safe, natural alternative that works with the body’s innate healing ability.
2. Enhanced Immune Function
A healthy spine supports a responsive immune system. Several studies suggest a connection between chiropractic care and fewer sick days in school-aged children.
3. Improved Posture
With increasing screen time and sedentary habits, kids are developing posture-related problems at younger ages. Chiropractic care helps correct spinal misalignments before they become permanent.
4. Better Sleep and Mood
By relieving tension in the nervous system, chiropractic adjustments can promote restful sleep and reduce irritability—something every parent can appreciate.
5. Support for Cognitive and Physical Development
A well-functioning nervous system supports proper coordination, balance, sensory processing, and brain-body integration—all of which are crucial in a child’s growth.
How Chiropractic Supports Active Kids in the Coastside Community
In Half Moon Bay and neighboring coastal towns, many children participate in outdoor activities and organized sports like surfing, soccer, baseball, and dance. While movement is essential, it can also lead to strain, impact injuries, and overuse.
Dr. Sidhartha Jandial, DC, at Newbold Chiropractic provides specialized care for sports-related injuries and performance optimization. Chiropractic adjustments help:
- Improve range of motion and flexibility
- Speed up recovery after sprains or falls
- Reduce the risk of future injuries
- Enhance focus, balance, and coordination
As a trusted chiropractor in Half Moon Bay, Dr. Jandial works closely with families to ensure kids stay active, strong, and pain-free.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pediatric Chiropractic Care
- Is chiropractic safe for children?
- Yes. Pediatric chiropractic care is extremely safe when provided by a trained chiropractor. A review published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found minimal risk of adverse effects, especially when compared to medications or surgery.
- How many sessions will my child need?
- Treatment plans are tailored to each child’s condition, age, and goals. Some children benefit from just a few sessions, while others thrive with regular care as part of a wellness routine.
- Do children need X-rays?
- Not typically. In most pediatric cases, a detailed physical exam and health history are sufficient. X-rays are only recommended if there’s a trauma history or red flags.
- Does it hurt?
- Not at all. Most kids enjoy their visits and many report feeling lighter or more relaxed afterward.
The Importance of Chiropractic Care for Families
When the whole family receives chiropractic care, they’re investing in a healthier future. Children model what they see—so when parents prioritize wellness, kids are more likely to adopt proactive health habits. Newbold Chiropractic offers family care plans that encourage regular checkups and wellness visits for everyone—from toddlers to grandparents.
Chiropractic care helps build a strong foundation for physical health, mental resilience, and emotional balance throughout all stages of childhood.
Start Your Child’s Chiropractic Journey Today
If you're a parent in Half Moon Bay, El Granada, Moss Beach, or Montara, CA, and want to support your child’s development naturally, now is the time to take action.
📍Newbold Chiropractic: 455 Avenue Alhambra, Suite 6, Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
📞 Call Today: (650) 726-3300
Schedule your child’s first chiropractic consultation today and discover how small adjustments can lead to big results. Because every child deserves to grow up healthy, strong, and pain-free.
References
- Alcantara, J., Ohm, J., & Kunz, D. (2015). The safety and effectiveness of pediatric chiropractic: A survey of chiropractors and parents in a practice-based research network. Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, 11(6), 445–452. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2015.08.005
- Todd, A. J., Carroll, M. T., Robinson, A., & Mitchell, E. K. (2015). Adverse events due to chiropractic and other manual therapies for children: A review of the literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 38(9), 699–712. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2015.08.006
- American Chiropractic Association. (2022). Children and Chiropractic Care. https://www.acatoday.org
Appointments with Dr. Jandial are timely, easy and thorough. I know that he will stop at nothing to make sure he has done everything he can to help. For instance, during my last appointment I had something out of place in my back that was not wanting to go back into place. Dr. Jandial tried several different adjustments until one finally worked to get it back into place. I rely on his care to keep my body functioning properly, and would recommend his services to anyone looking for a great and experienced chiropractor.
Gabriel Silveira
Dr Jandial is wonderful as is the front office and massage therapist. They listen to you and accommodate your needs. I always come out of the office feeling so much better.
Sara Russell
Acute neck flare up was addressed throughly by Dr. jandial who brought much relief and relaxation. I had a lovely nearly pain free weekend because of it
Beth Pielert
Comfort is only a few min away. When I am out of alignment I am in pain for days. In just a few minutes there I feel way better!
Dan S.
Fantastic experiences with both Dr. Jandial and his massage therapist. Staff is extremely professional and always pleasant. I would highly recommend this facility.
Michele S.
He really goes the extra mile to understand your unique condition and really does an excellent job. I can honestly and happily report that my back pain is significantly diminished since seeing him. The office is also inviting and friendly and always accommodating. I highly recommend seeing Dr. Jandial if you are looking for an amazing local option for chiropractic services.
Daniel L.