ularity for many years as parents search for pediatric methods of treatment that is medication-free and as natural as possible. The following frequently asked questions and answers will help you decide if chiropractic care is right for your child.

Q: Why are children treated with chiropractic care?

Many parents bring their children to see a chiropractor to treat typical childhood illnesses and typical musculoskeletal complaints. Pediatric treatments may be for conditions such as headaches, ear aches, neck aches, asthma, back pain, upper respiratory problems, allergies and enuresis. Chiropractic care uses traditional chiropractic methods to help ensure that these health issues are safely addressed.

In addition, children are hard on their bodies. Every day activities like carrying backpacks, falling down, and playing recreational and competitive sports are all activities that can do harm to joints and muscles. Pediatric patients can benefit from chiropractic adjustments just like adults.

Q: What are some of the signs of spinal trouble in children?

There are many symptoms that point to spine trouble. Parents may notice any of these problems over time including:

• One hip higher than the other.
• One leg appears longer than the other.
• One shoulder higher than the other.
• Joint, back or shoulder pain.
• Excessive falling.
• The wearing of one shoe more quickly than the other.

Q: Can chiropractic care address all childhood disorders?

Not all conditions can or will respond to chiropractic care. When children are brought in for chiropractic care, the chiropractor will treat all conditions that can be appropriately treated with chiropractic methods. Anything the chiropractor cannot treat will be referred to the child's primary care physician.

Q: How often should my child be treated with chiropractic care?

This depends on the child's condition, the chiropractor's prescription for treatment and the parent. Even after a child is finished with treatment, many parents choose to continue bringing their child to see the chiropractor for regular checkups. This is entirely up to the parent, but many children enjoy going to the chiropractor and since many children experience joint and muscle stress as a part of their everyday life, regular chiropractic treatments can be beneficial.

Q: How many times does a child need to be treated with chiropractic care to respond to treatment?

Like adult patients, some children may notice a reduction in pain or improvement of symptoms after only one visit. Some chiropractic treatments can take longer. Parents who bring their children in for chiropractic treatment should feel free to ask about the expected timeline for the child's recovery.

For more information about pediatric chiropractic care in Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, and Phoenix, AZ, consult with our chiropractor, Dr. Daniel Secrest, DC, at Secrest Family Chiropractic. We work with children of all ages to restore the muscles and joints in the body and treat a variety of childhood conditions. Contact us today at (480) 994-4411 for a consultation.