By Dr. Lisa Goodman, DC, CCSP, CACCP
Spring is in the air in Denver! The weather has been increasingly warm, and I LOVE seeing all those strollers (and baby bumps!) on my walks through Wash Park. These tiny humans are about to endure one of the most physically challenging journeys of their life—being born!
For lifelong chiropractic patients and advocates, the idea of adjusting a brand-new baby is not unusual. However, it is understandable that the general public may not fully grasp the benefits and frankly the NEED to have your newborn baby adjusted. Yes, I am talking about adjusting babies that are less than one month old! Before you get too excited or concerned, don’t worry—baby adjustments look (and sound) nothing like adult adjustments.
Newborn Chiropractic Care Process
First We Evaluate
Every patient in our office, newborn or adult, receives a full, comprehensive exam to determine if treatment is necessary. In the case of a newborn, this includes a thorough history of the mother’s pregnancy and delivery as well as an evaluation of the baby’s symptoms in just their first few days of life. It is incredible how information gathered about pregnancy and delivery will lead us directly to the mechanism of spinal stress or dysfunction.
For example, babies born via assisted delivery of vacuum, forceps, or cesarean section may be at higher risk for stress and dysfunction in their neck (cervical spine). Babies who were born breech or were in the breech position for a while in utero may be at higher risk for stress or dysfunction in their lower back or tailbone. These are critical factors to assess early on, as spinal misalignment can impact an infant’s comfort, movement, and even overall development.
Tell Me More About Symptoms
You may be wondering what symptoms a new baby may experience that would lead you to bring them to a pediatric chiropractor as soon as possible. Some of the more concerning symptoms include a persistent head tilt to one side (torticollis), severe irritability or colic, an inability to stay asleep for long stretches (2–3 hours), or reflux. These are all very good reasons to see a chiropractor.
Specific chiropractic adjustments can decompress the spine and reduce overstimulation of the nervous system, which may be causing your baby distress. The nervous system controls every function in the body, and when misalignments create undue stress, they can manifest in various ways—including discomfort, difficulty feeding, restlessness, or even digestive challenges. Many parents are surprised at the positive effects of gentle, precise chiropractic care on their baby’s overall well-being.
Another commonly overlooked issue in newborns is difficulty latching or feeding, which can sometimes be linked to tension in the neck or jaw. A well-aligned spine and nervous system can improve a baby’s ability to feed efficiently, reducing frustration for both baby and parents.
Newborn Adjustments I stated earlier that adjustments to a newborn baby are not like adult adjustments. However, the result is the same, and in most cases, babies respond much faster than adults. Newborn spines are highly mobile, not yet hardened into bones (they are largely cartilaginous), and of course, tiny. With over a decade of experience, I am able to palpate (feel) joint restrictions and fixations that are causing pain or nervous system compression in babies. My technique of choice in treating newborns involves gentle fingertip pressure and vibration—never a high-velocity thrust. Without getting into the technical details, these adjustments incorporate the infant’s breathing, natural body responses to pressure, and organic movements to correct mechanical joint dysfunction. It is amazing how the body can heal itself with the right guidance.
Often, parents notice immediate changes. Babies may become calmer, sleep more soundly, or even latch and nurse better. Some parents describe their baby as simply "happier" after an adjustment. This is because we are reducing interference in their nervous system, allowing their body to function more efficiently and comfortably.
All Newborns
I also mentioned that newborns NEED chiropractic care. Let me clarify. I believe that someday, all newborns will be examined for spinal fixations within the first month of life. It is overwhelming to consider that future cases of scoliosis and migraine could be avoided with early chiropractic intervention.
Let’s illustrate this point. If a baby has a head tilt at birth that goes uncorrected, by the time they begin to walk, their eyes will naturally correct to the alignment of the horizon. This means that an adaptive curve may develop within the spine—potentially leading to scoliosis. So many children are diagnosed with idiopathic adolescent scoliosis, which means “unknown origin.” But is it truly unknown?
Similarly, many children who experience frequent ear infections, allergies, or even digestive issues may have an underlying spinal misalignment affecting their nervous system’s ability to function optimally. By ensuring spinal health from the start, we can support a stronger foundation for lifelong well-being.
Chiropractic care for newborns is about optimizing the body's ability to adapt, function, and thrive. Every newborn deserves to have their spine checked, just as they receive a hearing or vision screening.
Collaborative Care
We are fortunate to partner with many pediatricians in the Denver area in the best interest of newborns. We receive referrals, provide comprehensive treatment notes, and collaborate on the treatment of every infant we see. Collaborative care is the future of medicine, and we are proud to be at the forefront.
By working alongside pediatricians, lactation consultants, midwives, and other healthcare providers, we can ensure a truly integrative approach to newborn care. Parents no longer have to choose between traditional medicine and holistic care—they can have both. This is especially important for parents who may feel hesitant about chiropractic for their baby. Through education, collaboration, and transparency, we can show that our goal is the same: the healthiest, happiest babies possible.
Lisa Goodman, DC, CCSP, CACCP is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) and Certified Prenatal and Pediatric Chiropractor (CACCP). She is a CrossFit L1 and CrossFit Kids Certified Trainer. Dr. Goodman founded Washington Park Chiropractic in 2006 in Denver, Colorado. Dr. Goodman incorporates sports chiropractic techniques with prenatal and pediatric patients, she teaches mobility and taping classes locally, and is a contributor to POPSUGAR, Urban Life Wash Park and DC Aligned. She is a committee member on the boards of the ACA Pediatrics Council and the ACA Sports Council. Areas of special interest include prenatal care, ankle and wrist injuries, instrument assisted soft tissue techniques, strength training, and pediatric fitness. Stay connected with Dr. Goodman on Instagram @washparkchiro or @drlisagoodman
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