When most people think of chiropractic care, they picture adults dealing with back pain or sports injuries. The idea of taking a baby or child to a chiropractor might seem unusual at first—or even raise questions about safety and necessity. Even asking themselves Why would I take my child to a chiropractor?

But pediatric chiropractic care is growing in recognition as more families discover its gentle, supportive approach to childhood wellness. From newborns recovering from birth to toddlers learning to walk, from active kids managing growing pains to teenagers dealing with sports injuries and postural stress, chiropractic care can play a meaningful role in supporting healthy development.

At The Wellness Tribe in Denver, Colorado, we specialize in pediatric chiropractic care, offering gentle, age-appropriate techniques for infants, children, and teens. Our founder, Dr. Maggie McInnes, has advanced training in pediatric chiropractic and is passionate about helping children thrive from their earliest days.

What Is Pediatric Chiropractic Care?

Pediatric chiropractic care focuses on the health and function of a child’s spine, nervous system, and musculoskeletal system. It’s not about treating disease—it’s about supporting the body’s natural ability to function, adapt, and develop optimally.

The spine and nervous system are fundamental to every aspect of your child’s health. The nervous system controls and coordinates every function in the body—from breathing and digestion to movement, growth, immune response, and sleep. When the spine is aligned and moving properly, the nervous system can function without interference.

Birth, falls, learning to crawl and walk, carrying heavy backpacks, sports, and even everyday activities can all create stress on a child’s developing spine and nervous system. Pediatric chiropractic care addresses these stresses gently and proactively, supporting healthy development and function.

How Is Pediatric Chiropractic Different from Adult Chiropractic?

Pediatric chiropractic is extremely gentle. The techniques we use for children are not the same as those used for adults.

For infants, adjustments use the lightest touch—often no more pressure than you would use to test the ripeness of a tomato. There’s no “cracking” or “popping.” Instead, we use gentle fingertip pressure to restore mobility and balance to the spine and nervous system.

For older children and teens, adjustments are still modified based on their age, size, and developmental stage. We use age-appropriate techniques that are comfortable and safe, always working within the child’s comfort level.

We also take a whole-child approach, considering not just where your child might be experiencing symptoms, but how their nervous system is functioning overall, how they’re developing, and what stresses they’re encountering in their daily life.

Why Parents Bring Their Children to The Wellness Tribe

Every family’s journey to pediatric chiropractic care is different. Some parents bring their newborns for a wellness check after birth. Others seek care when their child is experiencing specific challenges. Many come for preventive care, wanting to support their child’s optimal development from the start.

Here are some of the most common reasons families seek pediatric chiropractic care:

For Newborns and Infants

Birth recovery and wellness checks. Birth is a significant physical event—not just for mom, but for baby too. Whether your baby was born vaginally or via cesarean, they experienced compression, twisting, and pulling forces during delivery. Sometimes interventions like vacuum extraction, forceps, or prolonged pushing can create additional stress on a newborn’s spine and nervous system.

A gentle chiropractic assessment shortly after birth can identify areas of tension or restriction and help your baby’s body recover and adapt. Many parents bring their newborns in within the first few weeks of life as a proactive wellness check.

Feeding difficulties. Difficulty latching, painful nursing for mom, preference for nursing on only one side, clicking sounds during feeding, poor weight gain—these can all be related to tension or restriction in your baby’s neck, jaw, or cranium. When a baby’s head and neck aren’t moving freely, it can affect their ability to turn, latch deeply, and feed effectively.

Chiropractic care can help release tension in the neck and jaw, improve range of motion in the cervical spine, and support better feeding mechanics. Many parents notice improvements in latching and feeding comfort after just one or two gentle adjustments.

Colic and excessive crying. If your baby cries for hours on end, seems uncomfortable after feeding, arches their back, or has difficulty settling, they may be experiencing digestive discomfort or nervous system stress. While “colic” is a catchall term for excessive crying in otherwise healthy babies, many colicky babies have underlying tension in their spine and nervous system.

Research published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care was associated with improvements in crying time in infants with colic. While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, releasing tension in the spine and supporting nervous system balance may help babies feel more comfortable and settled.

Torticollis (head tilting or turning preference). If your baby consistently tilts their head to one side, has difficulty turning their head in both directions, or always looks in the same direction, they may have torticollis. This can develop from positioning in the womb or during birth, and if left unaddressed, it can lead to flat spots on the head (plagiocephaly) and developmental delays.

Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help restore mobility to your baby’s neck and spine, allowing them to move their head freely in all directions. We often work collaboratively with physical therapists and pediatricians to support complete resolution.

Sleep difficulties. If your baby has trouble settling for sleep, wakes frequently, or seems uncomfortable lying down, tension in their spine and nervous system might be contributing. When a baby’s body is uncomfortable, their nervous system stays in a heightened state, making it harder to relax into deep, restorative sleep.

Chiropractic care can help calm the nervous system and release physical tension, which may support better sleep patterns.

Developmental support. Some parents bring their babies in simply to support healthy development. Regular chiropractic care during the first year can help ensure your baby’s spine and nervous system are functioning optimally as they grow and reach developmental milestones.

For Toddlers and Young Children

Falls and minor injuries. Toddlers fall—a lot. Learning to walk, climbing, running, tumbling off furniture—all of these can create minor misalignments in the spine. While most falls don’t cause serious injury, they can create patterns of dysfunction that affect how your child moves and how their nervous system functions.

Regular chiropractic care can help address these minor misalignments before they become bigger issues, supporting your child’s body as they navigate the physical challenges of early childhood.

Frequent ear infections. Recurrent ear infections are incredibly common in young children, and they can be frustrating for both kids and parents. While chiropractic care doesn’t treat the infection itself, it can support the body’s ability to drain fluid from the middle ear and support immune function.

Some research suggests that chiropractic care may help reduce the frequency of ear infections. A study in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics found that children receiving chiropractic care had fewer ear infection episodes compared to those receiving standard medical care alone.

Constipation and digestive issues. If your child struggles with chronic constipation, irregular bowel movements, or tummy discomfort, nervous system function may be playing a role. The nerves that control digestion originate in the spine, and when the spine isn’t functioning optimally, it can affect digestive function.

Gentle adjustments to the lower spine and sacrum, combined with nutritional guidance, can support better digestive function in children.

Behavioral and sensory challenges. Some children seem to be in constant “fight or flight” mode—they’re easily overwhelmed, have difficulty regulating emotions, struggle with transitions, or have sensory sensitivities. While chiropractic care isn’t a treatment for behavioral conditions, supporting nervous system balance can help some children feel calmer and more regulated.

When the nervous system is balanced and functioning well, children are better able to process sensory input, regulate emotions, and respond appropriately to their environment.

Growing pains and musculoskeletal complaints. As children grow, they sometimes experience aches and pains—often in their legs, knees, or back. While growth itself isn’t painful, the rapid changes in muscles, bones, and joints can create tension and discomfort.

Chiropractic care can help ensure your child’s musculoskeletal system is balanced and functioning well as they grow, which may reduce discomfort and support healthy development.

For School-Age Children and Teens

Posture issues and tech neck. Between sitting at desks all day, carrying heavy backpacks, and spending hours on devices, today’s kids are experiencing postural issues at younger ages than ever before. Forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and upper back pain are becoming increasingly common in school-age children.

Chiropractic care can help address these postural imbalances and restore proper spinal alignment. We also provide education on proper ergonomics, backpack use, and screen time positioning.

Sports injuries and performance. Active kids and teen athletes put significant stress on their bodies. Whether your child plays soccer, dances, does gymnastics, or plays basketball, sports can create repetitive strain, minor injuries, and imbalances that affect performance and increase injury risk.

Many young athletes benefit from regular chiropractic care to maintain optimal alignment, support recovery, prevent injury, and enhance performance. We work with young athletes to keep their bodies functioning at their best.

Headaches. Children and teens can experience headaches for many reasons—stress, poor posture, dehydration, inadequate sleep, or tension in the neck and upper back. Chiropractic care can help identify and address structural contributors to headaches, particularly tension-type headaches related to neck dysfunction.

Scoliosis. While chiropractic care doesn’t cure scoliosis, it can be part of a comprehensive approach to managing spinal curves, especially in mild to moderate cases. Regular adjustments, exercises, and postural awareness can help support spinal health in children with scoliosis.

ADHD and focus challenges. Some parents seek chiropractic care as part of a holistic approach to supporting children with attention difficulties. While research is still emerging, some studies suggest that chiropractic care may have a positive effect on some children with ADHD symptoms, possibly by supporting nervous system regulation.

A study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics explored the effects of chiropractic care on children with ADHD and found some improvements in hyperactivity and inattention scores.

Many families report that their children seem calmer and more focused with regular chiropractic care.

Stress and anxiety. Adolescence can be a stressful time, and stress affects the body physically. Chronic stress keeps the nervous system in “fight or flight” mode, which can manifest as muscle tension, headaches, digestive issues, and difficulty sleeping.

Chiropractic care can help shift the nervous system into a more balanced state, supporting the body’s ability to handle stress more effectively.

Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Children?

Yes—when performed by a chiropractor trained in pediatric care.

Pediatric chiropractic is extremely safe. The techniques used are gentle, age-appropriate, and specifically designed for children’s developing bodies. Serious adverse events from pediatric chiropractic care are exceedingly rare.

A systematic review in the journal Chiropractic & Manual Therapies examined the safety of chiropractic care for children and found that adverse events were rare and typically minor (mild soreness, temporary fussiness).

At The Wellness Tribe, we use the gentlest possible techniques for children. For infants, adjustments are barely perceptible—just light fingertip pressure. Many babies sleep through their adjustments or nurse contentedly during care. For older children, adjustments are modified based on their size, age, and comfort level.

We always prioritize your child’s comfort and safety, and we work collaboratively with your pediatrician and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care.

What to Expect During Your Child’s Visit

Your child’s first visit to The Wellness Tribe is designed to be comfortable, informative, and child-friendly. We understand that some children may be nervous about seeing a new provider, and we take time to help them feel safe and comfortable.

Initial Assessment

We’ll start by talking with you about your child’s health history, any current concerns, developmental milestones, birth history, and overall wellness. We want to understand the full picture of your child’s health and development.

We’ll then perform a gentle assessment of your child’s spine, nervous system, and movement patterns. This might include observing how your child moves, checking spinal alignment and mobility, assessing posture, and looking at how their nervous system is functioning.

For infants, we pay special attention to head and neck mobility, feeding patterns, digestive function, and overall comfort. For older children, we assess posture, spinal curves, movement patterns, and any areas of tension or restriction.

Adjustments

If we determine that your child would benefit from an adjustment, we’ll explain exactly what we’re going to do and make sure both you and your child are comfortable. For infants, adjustments are incredibly gentle—using light fingertip pressure to restore mobility and balance. There’s no “cracking” or forceful manipulation. Many babies fall asleep during or immediately after their adjustments.

For older children, adjustments are still very gentle and modified for their age and size. We use techniques that are comfortable and age-appropriate. Many children say their adjustments feel good, like a gentle stretch or release of pressure.

Frequency of Care

How often your child needs to be seen depends on their individual needs and what we’re addressing. Some children benefit from regular wellness visits to support ongoing development and nervous system function. Others might come in more frequently for a period of time to address a specific concern, then transition to less frequent maintenance care.

We’ll create a personalized care plan for your child based on their unique needs and your family’s goals.

Real Stories from Denver Families

“We brought our daughter in when she was three weeks old because she was having trouble nursing and would only turn her head to one side. After just one gentle adjustment, she was able to turn her head both directions, and nursing became so much easier. We continued care throughout her first year, and I truly believe it supported her development. She’s now two and thriving.” — Emily, Denver

“My son was getting ear infections every month. We’d do antibiotics, he’d get better for a few weeks, then another infection would pop up. Our pediatrician was talking about tubes. We decided to try chiropractic care first. After a few weeks of adjustments, the infections stopped. He hasn’t had one in over six months. I wish we’d tried this sooner.” — Michael, Littleton

“Our teenage daughter was dealing with frequent headaches and neck pain from being on her phone and computer all day for school. After starting care at The Wellness Tribe, her headaches decreased significantly, and she became more aware of her posture. She now comes in regularly, especially during volleyball season, to help her body stay balanced and perform her best.” — Rachel, Englewood

“We started bringing our son to see Dr. Maggie when he was struggling with focus and hyperactivity. We wanted to try a holistic approach before considering medication. Along with dietary changes and working with his school, chiropractic care seemed to help him feel calmer and more grounded. His teachers noticed a difference too.” — David, Denver

The Research Behind Pediatric Chiropractic Care

Pediatric chiropractic care is supported by a growing body of research:

Safety. Multiple systematic reviews have confirmed that pediatric chiropractic care is safe when performed by trained practitioners. A review in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies found that adverse events are rare and typically minor.

Colic. Several studies have examined chiropractic care for infantile colic. A study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found significant reductions in crying time in colicky infants receiving chiropractic care.

Ear infections. Research suggests potential benefits for reducing ear infection frequency. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics found fewer ear infection episodes in children receiving chiropractic care.

Torticollis. Chiropractic care has been shown to be effective for infantile torticollis. A study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that manual therapy (including chiropractic) resulted in resolution of torticollis in the majority of cases.

ADHD symptoms. While research is still emerging, some studies suggest potential benefits. A pilot study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found improvements in hyperactivity and inattention scores in children with ADHD receiving chiropractic care.

Quality of life. Parents report improvements in their children’s overall well-being with chiropractic care. Research in Clinical Chiropractic found that parents perceived improvements in their children’s health and quality of life after receiving chiropractic care.

Supporting Your Child’s Development: A Holistic Approach

At The Wellness Tribe, we believe that optimal health comes from supporting the whole child, not just addressing symptoms. While chiropractic care is a powerful tool for supporting nervous system function and spinal health, it works best as part of a comprehensive approach to wellness.

We also provide guidance on:

Nutrition. What your child eats affects their growth, development, immune function, mood, focus, and energy. We can help you navigate nutritional choices that support your child’s optimal health.

Movement and exercise. Regular physical activity is essential for healthy development. We encourage age-appropriate movement and play, and we can provide exercises and stretches to support your child’s specific needs.

Sleep. Quality sleep is crucial for growth, learning, immune function, and emotional regulation. We can help identify factors that might be interfering with your child’s sleep and provide strategies to support better rest.

Stress management. Even young children experience stress. We help families recognize signs of stress in children and provide strategies for supporting nervous system balance and emotional regulation.

Developmental milestones. We monitor your child’s development and can identify potential delays or concerns early, referring to appropriate specialists when needed.

Common Questions Parents Ask

How young is too young for chiropractic care?

We can safely assess newborns within days of birth. In fact, the earlier we can address any tension or restriction from the birth process, the better. The techniques we use for newborns are incredibly gentle—about the same pressure you’d use to check if a tomato is ripe.

Will adjustments hurt my child?

No. Pediatric adjustments are gentle and comfortable. For infants, they’re barely perceptible. For older children, adjustments are modified to be age-appropriate and comfortable. Most children find their adjustments relaxing and enjoyable.

How long will my child need chiropractic care?

This depends on your goals and your child’s needs. Some families choose ongoing wellness care to support optimal development. Others seek care for specific concerns and then transition to occasional check-ups.

We’ll work with you to create a care plan that makes sense for your family.

Does my child need to be experiencing symptoms to benefit from chiropractic care?

Not at all. Many families choose proactive, preventive care to support their child’s optimal development and function. Just like you take your child to the dentist for regular checkups even when their teeth don’t hurt, chiropractic care can be part of your child’s wellness routine.

Will you work with my child’s pediatrician?

Absolutely. We believe in collaborative care and are happy to communicate with your pediatrician and other healthcare providers. We see ourselves as part of your child’s healthcare team.

What if my child is nervous or won’t sit still?

We’re experienced at working with children of all ages and temperaments. We take time to help your child feel comfortable, we explain things in age-appropriate ways, and we work at your child’s pace. Many adjustments can be done while your child is playing, sitting on your lap, or even nursing (for infants).

When to Consider Chiropractic Care for Your Child

Consider scheduling a consultation if your child is experiencing:

• Difficulty latching or feeding (infants)
• Excessive crying or colic (infants)
• Head tilting or turning preference (infants)
• Flat spots on the head (infants)
• Frequent ear infections
• Constipation or digestive issues
• Bedwetting (older children)
• Growing pains
• Headaches
• Poor posture or “tech neck”
• Sports injuries or performance concerns
• Scoliosis
• Focus or attention difficulties
• Sleep problems
• Stress or anxiety

You might also consider chiropractic care as part of your child’s proactive wellness routine, supporting optimal nervous system function and development from the start.

Why Choose The Wellness Tribe for Pediatric Chiropractic Care?

At The Wellness Tribe in Denver, Colorado, we’re passionate about supporting children’s health and development from their earliest days through adolescence and beyond.

Our founder, Dr. Maggie McInnes, has advanced training in pediatric chiropractic care and is certified in techniques specifically designed for infants and children. She’s a Colorado native who brings warmth, expertise, and genuine care to every interaction with your child and family.

The Wellness Tribe offers:

• Gentle, age-appropriate care for children of all ages
• A welcoming, child-friendly environment
• Collaborative care with your pediatrician and other providers
• A holistic approach that considers your child’s whole health and development
• Education and support for parents navigating their child’s health journey

We understand that every child is unique, and we take the time to understand your child’s individual needs, developmental stage, and wellness goals. We partner with you to support your child’s optimal health and development.

About The Wellness Tribe | Pediatric Chiropractor in Denver, Colorado

The Wellness Tribe is a Denver-based chiropractic practice founded by Dr. Maggie McInnes, a vitalistic family, prenatal, and pediatric chiropractor. Located on South Pearl Street in the heart of Denver, Colorado, The Wellness Tribe offers holistic, gentle chiropractic care for the whole family.

We specialize in prenatal chiropractic care (including the Webster Technique), pediatric chiropractic, family wellness, and performance-based care. Our approach is rooted in the belief that your body has an innate intelligence and ability to heal when it’s functioning optimally. We’re passionate about empowering individuals and families to live life fully, healthfully, and wholeheartedly.

At The Wellness Tribe, we create a warm, welcoming space where you feel heard, supported, and cared for. We take the time to understand your unique needs and goals, and we partner with you to create a personalized care plan that supports your health and wellness journey.

Whether you’re seeking care for your newborn, supporting your child’s development, or looking to optimize your family’s health, we’re here to support you.

Ready to learn more? Reach out to schedule your child’s first visit. We’re located on South Pearl Street in Denver and serve families throughout the Denver metro area.

Supporting Your Child’s Best Life

As a parent, you want the best for your child. You want them to grow up healthy, strong, and thriving. Pediatric chiropractic care can be a valuable part of supporting that vision.

By ensuring your child’s nervous system and spine are functioning optimally, you’re giving them a strong foundation for healthy development, resilience, and well-being. Whether you’re seeking care for a specific concern or simply want to support your child’s optimal health, we’re here to help.

Schedule an appointment today to learn how pediatric chiropractic care can support your child’s wellness journey.

The post Why Would I Take My Child to a Chiropractor? Understanding Pediatric Chiropractic Care appeared first on The Wellness Tribe Denver Chiropractic.

Welcome to The Wellness Tribe where we offer chiropractic for kids in Denver.

Here, we seek to answer all the questions you may have as you research your child’s journey into chiropractic, and whether it is a good choice for your family. 

Firstly, pediatric chiropractic begs us to ask, is chiropractic care good for kids? 

I love this question and it is one I hear often as a pediatric chiropractor! 

The response always brings me back to the premise of chiropractic and the foundation of which our services stand on.

Chiropractors are specialized and trained in eliminating interference between the brain and the body. If this primal channel (the nervous system) is clear, our overall health and function is optimized. Chiropractic is about living life to your highest potential and not always measured by symptoms or pain (although these are definite signs that communication is hindered).

The exponential growth and myriad of experiences an infant to baby – to child – to teenager undergoes is in itself a form of stress on the body. 

In fact, It wasn’t until I went to chiropractic college myself, that I was introduced to pediatric chiropractic. Afterall I didn’t receive my first adjustment until I was 19 years old. Many people operate under the pretense that chiropractic care is for use when the body is expressing pain or symptoms. In actuality, life itself can be the reason to get an adjustment and get back in alignment.

So, are chiropractors safe for babies then, too?

Birth is a stressful process affecting mom AND baby. Especially if the baby is “assisted” out of the body (i.e. c-section, forcep or vacuum delivery, or even manual pulling by the birth practitioner). And, oftentimes birth trauma, big or small, can result in difficulty with latch in breastfeeding, issues with reflux and colic, trouble sleeping, the list goes on.  

Later on, when your little one is learning to walk (and falls a zillion times) – that impacts his structure and nervous system communication. 

The same goes for the toddler on his strider bike crashing in the bushes and children entering the world of athletics (and here in Denver and Colorado, all kiddos are active). 

Entering school layers on emotional and mental stress. 

What I’m getting at here is: experiences that are completely normal and common, may also be stressful in a negative way on the structure and function of a child’s body and mind.

While some of my pediatric practice members do start care because they are having health challenges, equally as many come for wellness checks.

It is far easier to support a healthy growing child, than to fix a broken adult. 

Children should be checked periodically (a minimum of once monthly) for vertebral subluxation (interference to the spinal structure). Integrating the traumas, be they physical, emotional, or chemical, from a young age (many of my clients are being adjusted in utero and again 2 weeks postpartum) ensures that their nervous system is communicating at optimal speed and clarity.  

Children who are regularly seen by a chiropractor express robust health, recover more easily and quickly from childhood illnesses, and go on to have excellent performance in athletics.  

Really it’s a no brainer, why would you not want to give your child the best opportunity at health and well-being BEFORE he or she has pain or symptoms?

So the other concern parents want addressed before taking the leap into pediatric chiropractic care is: is it safe and when may a child start to be adjusted.  The answer is: it’s INCREDIBLY safe.  We start babies as early as hours after birth.  

The adjustment force is the pressure of your finger on your eyeball: very gentle.

The amount of force of the adjustment directly correlates with the size and age of the child. Many times in younger children, I use an instrument that has an adjustable force application that is very light. Most babies and children find care relaxing and enjoyable. 

All chiropractors are trained to work with children, however a population of us who are truly passionate about this demographic, like us at The Wellness Tribe, seek higher postdoctoral education to offer high quality pediatric chiropractic.  

We continually are educating ourselves on not only analysis and adjusting techniques, but also working with special populations (children on the spectrum, with special needs, etc). 

If you are interested in care for your child and looking to find a pediatric chiropractor, I highly recommend using the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association as a resource to find it’s members all over the globe: a location nearest you! 

As a local family Denver pediatric chiropractor, I welcome you to The Wellness Tribe where we care for all with extra training and love for pediatric chiropractic care, adjusting prenatal women, and working with those in full-on motherhood.  

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