As pediatric chiropractors, we have witnessed the incredible resilience and healing capacity of little humans. Children possess a remarkable ability to rebound from illness, injury, and various health challenges. In our practice, we often observe the "waves of healing" – a concept that encapsulates the ups and downs experienced during a child's healing journey. In this blog, We will share our perspective on these waves and shed light on children's remarkable healing process while under chiropractic care.
The healing process is seldom linear, especially in children. Instead, it tends to follow a pattern of waves. A child may experience significant progress one moment, while the next, there might be a temporary setback or plateau. These fluctuations can sometimes be disconcerting for parents, but it is essential to recognize that they are a natural part of the healing process. Just like the ocean waves, healing is a dynamic and ever-changing journey.
1. The Initial Ripple- Seeking Chiropractic Care: Parents often bring their children to a chiropractor when they notice signs of discomfort, such as colic, reflux, breastfeeding challenges, behavioral/ sensory challenges, or musculoskeletal issues. At this stage, the child may be experiencing the first ripple of change – the initial adjustment phase. During this time, the chiropractor identifies and corrects areas of subluxations or imbalances that may be hindering the child's overall health and well-being.
2. Riding the Crest- Positive Progress and Milestones: Following the initial chiropractic adjustments, children often experience a period of rapid progress. Parents may notice improvements in their child's sleep patterns, digestive function, immune system, and overall mood. This phase is akin to riding the wave's crest, where the child's health seems to soar, and parents witness the transformative power of chiropractic care.
3. The Dip- Temporary Setbacks and Plateaus: Just as waves inevitably crash, there may be moments when a child's progress slows down or appears to regress temporarily. This dip does not mean chiropractic care is ineffective or the child's health is deteriorating. Instead, it can be seen as a natural part of the healing process. In addition, these plateaus often indicate that the body is readjusting, releasing deeper layers of tension, and integrating the changes brought about by chiropractic adjustments.
4. The Swell- Building Resilience and Adaptation: Children typically experience an upward surge in their healing journey after a temporary dip. This swell is characterized by newfound resilience and adaptive responses. The child's body learns to improve its ability to self-regulate and adapt to internal and external stressors. As a result, the child's overall health and well-being continue to improve, and they become better equipped to handle future challenges.
5. The Rhythm- Maintenance Care: Once a child has reached a point of stability and optimal well-being, it is essential to establish a rhythm of maintenance care. Regular adjustments help maintain progress, allow for the body to stay in a parasympathetic state, prevent relapses, and support the child's ongoing development. For example, as ocean waves continue to ebb and flow, so does the need for ongoing chiropractic care to optimally ensure the child's nervous system function.
Observing the healing waves in children undergoing chiropractic care is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. It reminds us of the inherent healing capacity within each of us and the body's ability to find balance and restore health. Through neurological tonal adjustments and a holistic approach, we help children ride these waves, promoting balance, health, well-being, and thrive in all they do!