The First Year: A Timeline of Integrative Bodywork for Parent & Baby

The First Year: A Timeline of Integrative Bodywork for Parent & Baby

Supporting Healing, Growth & Bonding Through Acupuncture & Chiropractic Care

From the first cry to the first steps, a baby’s first year is full of milestones—and not just for them. For parents, it’s a time of immense change, healing, and adjustment. Integrative bodywork, including chiropractic care and acupuncture, offers safe, natural support for both parent and baby through every phase.

Here’s a month-by-month guide to how these modalities can support your family's health and well-being in the first year.

Postpartum Weeks 1–6: Recovery & Regulation

For Mom:

• Focus: Healing, hormonal balance, emotional support.

• Chiropractic Care: Helps realign the spine and pelvis after delivery.

• Acupuncture: Aids in hormone regulation, sleep, emotional well-being, and milk production.

“The fourth trimester” is just as important as pregnancy. This is when your body needs nurturing care to heal and reset.

For Baby:

• Focus: Nervous system regulation, feeding issues, tension from birth.

• Chiropractic: Gentle adjustments help with colic, reflux, poor latch, and sleep.

• Pediatric Bodywork: Addresses any potential birth-related strain on various body regions

Months 2–3: Growth Spurts & Adaptation

For Mom:

• Common concerns: Exhaustion, neck/shoulder pain from breastfeeding, emotional ups and downs.

• Chiropractic: Improves posture, relieves upper back and neck strain.

• Acupuncture: Addresses postpartum fatigue, anxiety, and regulates the menstrual cycle if it returns.

For Baby:

• Chiropractic Support: May ease tension during growth spurts, improve sleep patterns, and support motor development.

Months 4–6: Development & Digestive Shifts

For Mom:

• Chiropractic: Preps the body for baby wearing and increasingly active caregiving.

• Acupuncture: Addresses menstrual irregularities, hormonal acne, energy dips.

For Baby:

• Focus: Teething, rolling, and digestive shifts as solid foods begin.

• Bodywork Benefits: Eases teething discomfort, supports immune health, and encourages motor coordination.

Months 7–9: Mobility & Milestones

For Baby:

• Crawling, sitting, standing—all these milestones rely on a strong, aligned foundation.

• Gentle adjustments help balance the hips, spine, and shoulders for symmetrical movement.

• Acupuncture for toddlers can support immunity and soothe fussiness.

Months 10–12: First Steps & First-Year Check-In

For Mom:

• Chiropractic care may help prevent chronic issues from the physical demands of caregiving.

• Acupuncture can support long-term health, stress relief, and even future family planning.

For Baby:

• Walking places new stress on the spine and joints.

• This is a great time for a chiropractic milestone check-up to ensure proper alignment as mobility increases.

Why Integrative Bodywork Matters in the First Year

• Offers support for common challenges.

• Promotes nervous system balance, which is key for growth, healing, and bonding.

• Helps build a lifelong foundation of health and body awareness.

When to See a Chiropractor or Acupuncturist

• Baby has trouble nursing, turning their head, fussiness, sleep issues, or constipation.

• You’re feeling “off,” stuck, or are struggling with sleep, pain, or mood swings.

• You want a proactive, preventative approach to whole-family wellness.

Ready to Start Your Bodywork Journey?

Whether you're newly postpartum or chasing a curious crawler, integrative care is here to support you. We'd love to help you and your family thrive.

Book your initial consultation today or contact us with any questions!

From Ear Infections to Growing Pains: How Holistic Care Supports Your Child’s Health

As parents, we want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their health and well-being. Did you know there are ways to support your child’s growth, development, and overall wellness naturally and may even help prevent illness and the need for unnecessary medicine? Holistic care, including chiropractic, offers gentle, natural solutions for many of the common health concerns children face, from infancy to adolescence.

Here’s some of the ways holistic care can help your little ones feel and function their best:

Why Choose Holistic Care for Your Child? 

Holistic therapies focus on addressing the root cause of symptoms rather than masking them. Here are some key reasons why more parents are turning to natural care for their kids:

• Non-Invasive and Gentle: Techniques like chiropractic and craniosacral therapy are safe for children of all ages, from newborns to teenagers.

• Drug-Free Solutions: Holistic care reduces the reliance on medications, which can have side effects or lose effectiveness over time. (Note: there is a time and place for medicine, but not every illness or symptom needs it)

• Whole-Body Approach: By evaluating and caring for the whole child, holistic care promotes not just symptom relief but overall health and wellness.

Addressing Common Childhood Concerns Naturally

Kids can experience various health challenges as they grow, and holistic care can be a safe and effective option to support their well-being. Here are a some common issues we see and care for in our office:

• Ear Infections: Chronic ear infections can be distressing for both kids and parents. Gentle chiropractic adjustments help improve drainage of the ears by ensuring proper movement and function of the neck, spine, and even sinuses and lymphatic systems. This may limit or reduce the need for repeated antibiotics.
  
  

• Colic and Digestive Issues: Infants with colic or reflux often respond well to chiropractic care, which can alleviate tension in the body, improve proper nervous system function, and support better digestion.
  
  

• Sleep Troubles: Balancing the nervous system with gentle chiropractic care and cranial techniques are excellent for calming overstimulated bodies and brains, helping children fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
  
  

• Immune Support: Regular chiropractic adjustments (and acupuncture) help boost the immune system by reducing stress and tension and promoting overall balance in the body.
  
  

How Chiropractic Care Supports Growing Bodies

As children grow, their bodies undergo significant changes that can sometimes lead to discomfort, restrictions, or dysfunction. Chiropractic care can help through:

• Improving Posture: Carrying heavy backpacks or sitting for long periods can strain young spines. Regular adjustments promote proper alignment and prevent posture-related issues.

• Relieving Growing Pains: Growth spurts can cause joint and muscle discomfort. Chiropractic care eases tension and ensures proper development.

• Boosting Nervous System Function: The nervous system controls every function in the body. Aligning the spine supports better communication between the brain and body, helping kids feel and perform their best.

If you are looking to better integrate holistic wellness for your family at home, in addition to seeking professional holistic care, you can support your child’s health with these simple practices:

• Promote and Introduce Healthy Foods: Focus on whole, nutrient-rich foods and limit processed food and snacks to support energy and growth. Incorporating foods like bone broth, homemade fermented or pickled foods, and fresh fruits and veggies into every day meals and snacks will set your children up for a healthier future.

• Encourage Movement: Regular physical activity promotes physical and emotional well-being. Bonus if you are able to get movement outside!!

• Practice Mindful Bedtime Routines: A consistent bedtime, limited screen time, and calming activities like reading help children wind down. Find things that work for your family–need some tips? There are lots of resources online and social media to help!

• Utilize Natural Remedies: Essential oils, herbal teas, salves, homeopathy, red light therapy, and Epsom salt baths can provide gentle relief for minor ailments.

Every child is unique, and their care should reflect that. A holistic care provider can create a personalized care plan (and lifestyle tips) tailored to your child’s specific needs. Whether it’s easing colic in a newborn, relieving allergies in a toddler, or managing stress in a teenager, the right care can make all the difference.

At Cleveland Chiropractic and Integrative Health Center, we’re passionate about helping children reach their full potential through natural, holistic care. Our team offers gentle chiropractic adjustments, craniosacral therapy, acupuncture, and other therapies designed with kids in mind.

Holistic care isn’t just about treating symptoms—it’s about empowering your child to thrive in every stage of life. By addressing health challenges naturally and supporting overall well-being, you’re giving your child the best foundation for a happy, healthy future.

Ready to learn how holistic care can help your family? Let us help! Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a healthier tomorrow for your family.

In health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

@clechiropractic

clechiropractic.com

216-952-3830

Natural Immune Support for Back to School

As the school year begins, parents often worry about their children's health and preventing illnesses. With so many students in close quarters, it's easy for germs to spread. So what can you do? Help them strengthen their immune system! Fortunately, there are natural ways to boost your child's immune system and keep them healthy throughout the year. Being exposed to germs is not necessarily the cause of illness. If we have a weak immune system, we are more likely to get sick. Here are some practical tips for natural immune support for students.

Proper Nutrition

A balanced diet is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. Encourage your child to eat more whole foods including a variety of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates. Foods rich in vitamins C and E, such as peppers, oranges, strawberries, and spinach, can be particularly beneficial. Additionally, probiotics found in yogurt and fermented foods can help maintain a healthy gut, which is essential for overall immunity.

Adequate Sleep

Sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. Children need more sleep than adults, so make sure they are getting the recommended amount for their age group. For instance, school-aged children typically need 9-11 hours of sleep per night. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to help your child wind down and ensure they get enough rest. Often children stay up later in the summer, so slowly transitioning them to an earlier bedtime can be helpful. Try shifting bedtime 10-15 minutes earlier throughout the week(s) leading up to the first day of school.

Regular Exercise

Physical activity is another important factor in boosting the immune system. Encourage your child to engage in regular exercise, whether it's playing a sport, riding a bike, or simply running around the yard. Exercise helps increase circulation, which allows immune cells to move through the body more effectively. Once in school, children often move less, so encouraging active play after school is beneficial!

Hydration

Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining good health. Water helps to flush out toxins and supports the function of every cell in the body. Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day. You can also provide hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and oranges. Coconut water is a great hydration option as well!

Stress Management

Stress can weaken the immune system, making it easier for your child to get sick. Yes, even kids can get stressed! Teach your child simple stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices. Encourage them to take breaks and participate in activities they enjoy to help keep stress levels low.

Vitamins and Supplements

Certain herbs and supplements can also provide natural immune support. Echinacea, elderberry, bee propolis, and astragalus are known for their immune-boosting properties. Always consult with a healthcare professional before giving your child any new supplements to ensure they are safe and appropriate for their age and health condition. Our doctors can help by recommending some natural immune support for you and your family.

Hygiene Practices

Good hygiene practices are essential for preventing the spread of germs. Teach your child to wash their hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the restroom. Encourage them to avoid touching their face, as this can transfer germs from their hands to their mouth, nose, or eyes.

Utilize Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care helps the body function at it’s best, including the immune system! Regular adjustments can support an optimally functioning nervous system which can offer immune support, reduce muscle or joint tightness, help reduce body stress/tension, and so much more! Chiropractic is a great way to help support your child’s growing body and help them feel and function their best!

By incorporating these natural strategies into your child's daily routine, you can help support their immune system and keep them healthy during the school year. Remember, a strong immune system is built over time, so consistency is key.

Want to learn more? Be sure to follow us on Instagram! Reach out to schedule an appointment for your family; we would love to help keep your family healthy!

In health and blessings,

Dr. Abbey

Chiropractic Care for Recurrent Ear Infections in Children

Dealing with recurrent ear infections can be a challenging and frustrating experience. Chiropractic care offers a natural and non-invasive approach to managing and preventing ear infections in children. Here's how chiropractic care can help and why it might be worth considering for your little one.

 Understanding Ear Infections

Ear infections, or otitis media, are common in young children. They occur when the ear becomes inflamed, often due to bacteria or viruses. Symptoms can include ear pain, fever, irritability, and hearing problems. Recurrent ear infections can lead to complications like hearing loss and speech delays if not properly managed.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care focuses on the spine and nervous system's health, promoting the body's natural ability to heal itself. For children with recurrent ear infections, chiropractors aim to improve drainage of the ear and enhance immune function through spinal adjustments.

1. Improved Eustachian Tube Function:

   - The eustachian tube connects the middle ear to the back of the throat, helping to equalize pressure and drain fluids. Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can affect the muscles and nerves that control this tube, leading to fluid buildup and infection. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help restore proper function and promote drainage.

2. Immune System:

   - A well-functioning nervous system is crucial for a strong immune response. By correcting spinal misalignments, chiropractic care may help nerve function, helping the body fight off infections more effectively.

3. Reduced Inflammation:

   - Spinal adjustments can reduce inflammation in the body, potentially decreasing the frequency and severity of ear infections. Integrating Chiropractic Care with Traditional Medicine

Chiropractic care can be part of a comprehensive approach to managing ear infections. It can be used alongside traditional medical treatments to provide holistic care. Always keep your pediatrician informed about any complementary therapies your child is receiving to ensure coordinated care.

Recurrent ear infections can significantly impact your child's well-being and your peace of mind. Chiropractic care offers a promising, natural approach to managing and preventing these infections by improving the function of the eustachian tubes, boosting the immune system, and reducing inflammation.

If your child is struggling with frequent ear infections, consider consulting a chiropractor specializing in pediatric care. By exploring this holistic approach, you might find an effective solution that helps your child feel better.

Pleas contact the office with any questions!

Dr. Alex

A Holistic Approach: Chiropractic Care for Pediatric Constipation, Colic, and Reflux

Chiropractic care can be helpful for its potential to alleviate issues such as constipation, colic, and reflux in children. In this blog post, we'll explore how chiropractic care can offer relief and support for these conditions in pediatric patients.

Understanding the Conditions:

Constipation, colic, and reflux are prevalent concerns among infants and children, often causing distress for both the child and their caregivers.

Constipation: Characterized by infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools, constipation can lead to discomfort, pain, and even behavioral changes in children.

Colic: Colic is defined by excessive crying and fussiness in otherwise healthy infants, typically occurring in the late afternoon or evening and lasting for hours at a time. The exact cause of colic remains elusive, but it can be incredibly stressful for both infants and parents.

Reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and sometimes leading to complications such as irritability, poor weight gain, and respiratory issues.

Chiropractic Care for Pediatric Patients:

Chiropractic care focuses on the relationship between the spine and the nervous system, aiming to restore proper alignment and function to the body. While chiropractic adjustments are often associated with adults, they can also be gentle and beneficial for pediatric patients.

For children with constipation, colic, and reflux, chiropractors may employ techniques such as spinal adjustments, gentle massage, and dietary recommendations to address underlying issues and promote overall wellness.

1. Constipation: Chiropractic adjustments can help improve nerve function and bowel motility, potentially easing constipation in children. Additionally, dietary guidance and lifestyle modifications may be suggested to support regular bowel movements.

2. Colic: Chiropractic care for colicky infants often involves gentle spinal adjustments to relieve tension and improve nervous system function. By addressing spinal misalignments, chiropractors aim to reduce discomfort and fussiness in colicky babies.

3. Reflux: Misalignments in the spine can contribute to dysfunction in the digestive system, potentially exacerbating reflux symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments may help restore proper alignment and alleviate pressure on the digestive organs, providing relief for infants struggling with reflux.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care:

One of the primary advantages of chiropractic care for pediatric patients is its non-invasive nature. Additionally, chiropractic care can take stress off the body allowing for better communication between the body's systems. It aims to support the body's natural ability to heal and function optimally.

While chiropractic care is not a cure-all for pediatric constipation, colic, and reflux, it can be a valuable complementary therapy for children experiencing these issues. By focusing on spinal alignment and nervous system function, chiropractors aim to address underlying factors contributing to these conditions and promote overall wellness in pediatric patients. As always, it's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new treatment approach for your child.

Baby Feeding Issues and Chiropractic Care

Nursing or feeding issues can be quite common, especially with newborns. Many parents find themselves facing challenges including their baby having difficulty latching, excessive crying during feedings, or general feeding aversion. So what can you do? Consult specialists who specialize in pediatric care and specifically feeding issues! It is important to consult a provider who specializes in infant feeding as they can best help identify issues and provide solutions. A pediatric chiropractor can be very helpful to identify the source of the issues and help baby’s ability to feed. 

Understanding Baby Nursing Issues

Babies may experience nursing issues for various reasons. These could include difficulty latching, tongue tie, lip tie, neck or spine tension, torticollis, reflux, colic, or sensitivities. These issues can be frustrating for both the baby and the parents, leading to stress and anxiety. Pediatric specialists, including chiropractors, work to find the cause of the dysfunction, offer treatment options, and provide home recommendations as well.

Chiropractic Care for Babies

Chiropractic care for babies involves gentle, specific, non-invasive adjustments to help improve movement and function of the body. These adjustments aim to ensure that the baby's nervous system is functioning optimally and that any tension or restrictions of the spine, soft tissue, and cranial areas are corrected. These restrictions, also known as subluxations, can interfere with the flow and communication of the nervous system, which then affects the baby’s overall health and function, including feeding. By performing gentle adjustments, chiropractors aim to restore proper function, potentially improving the baby's ability to breastfeed or bottle-feed more comfortably. 

Pediatric chiropractic care is well-researched and a 2017 study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care might help babies with breastfeeding difficulties. Chiropractic is a non-invasive and drug-free approach that aims to support the body's natural ability to heal and function optimally. Additionally, some parents have reported improvements in their baby's feeding behavior after chiropractic adjustments. 

A Multi-Disciplinary Approach

Pediatric chiropractors also work with other providers including lactation consultants, pediatric physical therapists and occupational therapists, and pediatric dentists or oral specialists to provide comprehensive and collaborative care to support and restore optimal function for the baby and feeding. 

At Cleveland Chiropractic, our chiropractors are trained and specialize in pediatric chiropractic care, helping babies to function optimally and thrive. If your baby or someone you know has a baby who is struggling with feeding, please reach out–we may be able to help!

Let's Talk About Concussions

September is back-to-school time and concussions become a more popular topic of discussion, especially for parents with children in sports. Although concussions can happen any time of year, it becomes more of a hot topic in this time of year with fall sports, including football. But you do not have to play football or even be an athlete to sustain a concussion. Concussions can occur as the result of a whiplash injury, falling down the steps, or slipping while walking or hiking…you don’t even have to hit your head to sustain a concussion! People of all ages can get concussions: even toddlers and pregnant women! 

So what is a concussion, how do you know if you have one, and what are the treatment options? Read on to learn more!

What is a concussion?

Head/brain injuries are classified into two categories: traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and mild traumatic brain injuries (MTBI). These classifications do not mean that the symptoms are more severe for an individual but rather are based on the medical intervention needed. MTBI do not have brain bleeds. Concussions are the most common MTBI.

So why are we talking about concussions?

Anyone can suffer from a concussion. For pregnant women, babies, and children, care options tend to be more limited and conservative. This is often the same approach with caring for head and brain injuries. Chiropractic care, manual therapy, craniosacral therapy, and acupuncture are all effective, conservative treatment options that may help with healing after a head trauma and offer safe options for perinatal and pediatric patients.

How is a concussion diagnosed?

Unfortunately, there are no specific medical tests to diagnose a concussion. Research is being done to find if there are biomarkers in the brain, but nothing has been confirmed at this time. The current most accurate testing is based on an evaluation of the injured person, testing congintive and physical function along with symptoms they have experienced. Other tests such ax xrays, brainscans, and bloodwork may be done to rule out other forms of head injuries or other conditions.

What are the treatment options?

The main/most common treatment option is rest, physical and mental, until the person is cleared to return to normal activity. Even after being cleared, modified activity may be necessary to help with healing and not to exacerbate symptoms. Research has shown the safety and effectiveness of manual therapy (including adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and physical rehabilitation) in the healing process. Studies have also shown that patients who received manual therapy as part of their therapy post concussion have a shorter and more complete recovery. Nutrition plays a very important role in the healing process, especially for brain injuries. The brain needs healthy fats such as omega-3s to function optimally. Research has not only proven the effectiveness of omega-3s for healing brain injuries, but also the benefit of using for prevention. Regular consumption of omega-3s may actually help reduce the severity or incidences of brain injury!

Why is this important?

Of course, any injury, especially head trauma, should be taken seriously and properly cared for. Concussions or other MTBIs often go undiagnosed or not properly managed. Thankfully, with more awareness, many people who sustain concussions are being diagnosed sooner, more accurately, and given more information about therapy and healing options.

Want more information? Here are some great sites and resources for you and your family about concussion, care options, and return to play/life protocols:

https://cattonline.com/

https://pages.clevelandclinic.org/concussion-index

https://share.upmc.com/category/concussion/

If you or someone you know has sustained a concussion or other head injury, please reach out! Dr. Abbey is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) and on the Concussion Registry for the state of Ohio. She specializes in cervicocranial adjustments and concussion care, helping patients as the heal and improve their overall function.

Tummy Time: An Important Activity for Baby’s Functional Development

Tummy time has become a popular phrase and well-known activity in the parenting world. So, what is tummy time? Tummy time simply involves laying your baby on their tummy while they are awake. This exercise promotes their optimal strength and healthy development.

We are born with primitive reflexes which help us to grow and develop optimally. These primitive reflexes develop in utero and aid in the birth process. After birth, these reflexes allow for muscle flexion motions by the nervous system and allow for basic, fundamental movement. Examples include palmar and plantar grasp, rooting, suckling, startle reflex, and other spinal cord reflexes.

As baby grows and hits developmental milestones, primitive reflexes naturally become inhibited within the first few months to one year after birth. During an examination, a pediatric chiropractor or pediatrician test these reflexes and monitor your baby’s growth and development. Presence or absence of reflexes at certain stages of growth may indicate functional issues.

Tummy time is important because it helps baby develop extensor muscles and postural muscles, which helps with natural inhibition of primitive reflexes. Babies who do not spend enough time on their tummies will often skip (or hit milestones too soon) or delay steps in hitting growth and functional milestones involved in brain and motor development. These delays or skipped milestones can lead to poor coordination, muscle imbalances as a child and adult, delayed language development, and even abnormal immune response. Brain imbalances can also result in abnormal development of sensory processing due to a delay in the expansion of higher brain centers. By activating certain movements with infants and children, you can help their nervous systems develop for optimal health and function. Tummy time is one of the most natural and beneficial exercise to encourage baby’s proper growth.

A healthy, functioning spine and nervous system means a healthy brain and body. When a baby is born, their spine is in a c-shape due to the fetal position in the womb. As a child achieves developmental milestones through tummy time, rolling, crawling, standing and eventually being upright and walking, their spine develops natural, healthy curves. The first curve to develop through functional growth and movement the cervical curve in their neck. The neck is a delicate and very important region of the spine because it primarily supports the head, controls nerve and blood flow to and from the brain, and is important for balance/center of gravity. Also, the brainstem can be hindered or experience abnormal pressure if the neck is not functioning properly or has been injured in the birth process. An absent or abnormal cervical curve can lead to interference in the communication between the brain and the body, as well as predisposes a person to decreased range of motion, headaches or other pain, premature spinal degeneration, and pain in their head/neck/spine as an adult. Proper functioning of the spine and nervous system helps prevent joint dysfunction and other issues as baby grows and into adulthood. Tummy time is one of the first natural exercises performed by an infant that helps to develop a natural and healthy neck curvature. 

When can you start tummy time for your baby? Once a newborn’s belly button has healed from the umbilical connection and the stump falls off, you can introduce the tummy time position. Between one and two months, it is normal to observe your baby hold their head up and comfortably raise their head approximately 45 degrees while on their tummy. You will also see them turn their head and eyes to sound and follow objects, as well as recognize faces and smile spontaneously. 

It is best to attempt tummy time when your baby is well rested and fed, to avoid irritability and fussiness. Also, give them time to digest their milk, approximately 30-45 minutes post feeding, to avoid excessive spit up. We recommend starting slow, with 1 – 2 minute intervals throughout the day, and increase gradually based on your baby’s comfort, happiness, and ease. 

To get the most out of your baby’s tummy time, be creative! Try different positions and activities to make it fun and optimize their experience. Always supervise your baby, to ensure their safety. Babies love interacting with mirrors, so place a small safety mirror in front of them and watch as they discover themselves. You can also place fun toys or play mats in front of them to stimulate their curiosity and make tummy time engaging. For babies who struggle or are fussy during tummy time, try placing your baby on their tummy with a rolled-up towel, nursing pillow, or tummy time pillow under their arms/chest, so they have more support and a better view of the world. Laying your baby on your chest is another good method; infants love being held (especially skin to skin) and looking at your face. This also helps them develop their social-vagal nerve. You can also hold your baby across your thighs face down while you massage their back, this can double as a soothing activity before nap time. 

Laying your baby on an exercise/stability ball (holding them for support) is another great variation; the movement of the ball helps stimulates the brain to further enhance their development and challenges balance. Holding your baby and/or baby-wearing is another variation of tummy-time that can help them strengthen their spine and develop functional curves.

If your baby does not seem to enjoy tummy time, gets fussy, or they seem uncomfortable, it could indicate that they have stress or restrictions in their spine and interference in their nervous system. This is common from the birth process and/or other life events. A trained pediatric chiropractor can assess for and address this concern with gentle care. Pediatric chiropractic care is beneficial for optimal growth in babies as it may help with any developmental delay that may be present by changing the tone of the nervous system to the relaxed parasympathetic state – which allows for growth and healing. Gentle, specific adjustments performed by a trained pediatric chiropractor, ensure that a child’s spine and nervous system are able to function and communicate without interference.

At Cleveland Chiropractic and Integrative Health Center, we love caring for babies from birth through every stage of development to ensure they grow optimally and function their best.

Chiropractic Benefits for a Colicky Baby

An infant spine can get restricted during the stress of birth. Baby pushes through the birth canal adjusting their flexible bones. This process, even though natural, could even cause slight restrictions in the baby’s spine and cranial bones. If there is enough irritation in the spine, it can present as colics, latching and/or breastfeeding issues, sleeping difficulties, torticollis, digestive issues such as acid reflux, diarrhea and constipation.

Constant crying and fuzziness is quite common for infants, especially during the first three to four months. Babies will often cry when they are hungry, tired, or because of a wet diaper. However, if it continues to cry even when you have fed them, comforted them and changed their diaper, they might be colicky. 

A colicky baby can be defined as a healthy baby that cries for prolonged times for no apparent reasons, and it seems difficult to comfort. 

Common colic signs can be presented as:

• Constant crying w/o comfort

• Baby looks like it is in some sort of pain (screaming)

• Having hard time to sleep 

• Constant gas/bloating

• Having constipation or diarrhea 

• Arched back

Certain body restrictions, foods and feeding habits can cause the baby to experience stress in their bodies. 

Chiropractic Care Benefits for Colicky Babies: 

• Release joint restriction

• Reduce muscle tension

• Increases nerve function

• Improve joint mobility

• Boost immune system

Chiropractic adjustment can be very helpful. When the restrictions in the joint are released, it boosts the child's body to  work properly when performing daily activities such as eating, digesting, sleeping and moving around. 

It is always recommended to rule out any underlying conditions that can be the cause of your baby’s discomfort. If your baby is experiencing any of these symptoms, reach out to us! We can always let you know if chiropractic care is right for your baby or we can guide you to the right provider. 

In health, 

Dr. Shirley

http://clechiropractic.com

216-952-3830

Recognizing and Treating Tongue-Tie: What Every Parent Should Know

Every year, many babies are born with tongue and lip ties. Early diagnosis and treatment is recommended for young children to support optimal growth and function while helping to avoid long-term side effects.

Seeking chiropractic care can be an important part of care and rehab following tongue tie and lip tie revisions, helping to ensure proper alignment and function of the tongue, mouth, head, neck, and the rest of the Deep Front Line (DFL) anatomy train which includes the diaphragm, spinal stabilizing muscles, hips flexors, and intrinsic knee and foot muscles!

What is a tongue or lip tie?

Tongue tie (or ankyloglossia) is an unusually short, thick, or tight frenulum (the band of tissue that connects the bottom of the tongue to the floor of the mouth). For many instances of tongue tie, a lip tie is also present. Similarly, to tongue tie, a lip tie is when the band of tissue that connects the upper lip to the gums is too tight, short, or thick. Ties are congenital issues. When an embryo is growing in the womb, the tongue and the floor of the mouth fuse together. Over time, the tongue separates from the floor of the mouth. Eventually, only a thin cord of tissue, the frenulum, connects the bottom of the tongue to the mouth floor. As an infant grows, the frenulum usually thins and shrinks. In children who are affected by a tongue tie, the frenulum remains thick or attached to the tongue tip and does not recede, which makes it difficult to move the tongue.

What are the signs and symptoms of a tongue or lip tie?

There are several signs and symptoms for babies with ties.

Signs and symptoms commonly seen in tongue tied infants include, but are not limited to:

·        Clicking while nursing

·        Colic

·        Difficulty nursing (including not able to finish sessions)

·        Excessive drooling

·        Excessive spitting up

·        Fussiness

·        Gagging

·        Gassiness

·        Hiccups

·        Milk blisters

·        Mucous in stool

·        Poor latch or suction

·        Reflux

·        Restricted tongue movement

·        Sleeping with mouth open

·        Slow weight gain

·        Stiffness or back arching

·        Torticollis

·        Uncomfortable or fussy when in a car seat

·        Weight loss

Note: these signs/symptoms may also be associated with other issues or dysfunctions. Consult your healthcare provider if your baby is experiencing any of the issues listed.

Signs and symptoms commonly seen in mamas of tongue-tied babies include, but are not limited to:

·        Bruising on or around nipple

·        Breasts frequently not feeling emptied after nursing sessions

·        Clogged ducts

·        Engorgement

·        Flattened or creased nipple after nursing session

·        Mastitis or inflammation of breasts

·        Overactive or delayed milk ejection

·        Pain (during or after nursing)

·        Supply issues

·        Uncomfortable or unnatural feeding positions

Why do babies need to be evaluated and diagnosed for ties?

If you think your child may have a tongue and/or lip tie, they should be evaluated, diagnosed, and given care as soon as possible. There are several pediatric specialists who can evaluate and diagnose ties including lactation consultants, pediatric dentists, chiropractors, ear/nose/throat (ENT) specialists, pediatricians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists. Tongue and lip ties can affect an infant’s ability to properly nurse/feed, swallow, breath, and even self-soothe. If the tongue cannot move in a full and functional range of motion, it is unable to properly shape the hard palate (roof of the mouth) which also plays a critical role in normal feeding, movements, and overall growth and development. Unaddressed ties may even have long-lasting affects including speech delays or impediments, challenges with normal movement or functional development, vagus nerve interference, behavioral issues, head and neck tension, headaches, TMJ dysfunction, crowding of teeth, and sleep disorders.

How is it treated?

Once a tongue tie has been properly diagnosed, often the next step recommended is to have it revised (or “clipped”). The procedure is typically very quick and minimally invasive.  Modern techniques with laser revisions are quick, effective, and often babies sleep through the procedure! Babies usually can nurse immediately following the correction. Your baby’s revision specialist will typically recommend follow up care including consulting a chiropractor or craniosacral therapist along with home care to help with the healing.

Follow-up care: Chiropractic Care and Craniosacral Therapy

Following the revision, it is beneficial to consult a chiropractor and/or craniosacral therapist (or ideally both!). These practitioners help ensure proper alignment and function of the surrounding areas as well as teach you stretches and retraining exercises, so full functionality is returned as soon as possible. It is also beneficial to schedule an appointment with a lactation consultant to ensure there are no other challenges interfering with optimal nursing.

Many may not think of utilizing chiropractic care for tongue tie treatments and post revision care. Everything in the body is connected; when restriction is present due to a tethered tongue, it often leads to restriction and tension of the surrounding muscles and fascia of the Deep Front Line (DFL). This may result in abnormal movement and positioning of spinal segments, affecting the nervous system and other motor patterns or functional development. Checking and maintaining proper movement and function of the spine and related soft tissue may result in faster healing and more optimal functionality not only of the tongue and the surrounding muscles, but the entire body as well.

Craniosacral therapy may help reduce stress and tension in the body and remove interferences to the cranial bones and nerves caused or related to tongue tie. The restriction not only affects the tongue but can also limit motion of the cranial bones which can affect proper shaping of the head, including molding the hard palate. When the cranial bones are unable to move optimally, flattening of the skull can occur.

We can help!

At Cleveland Chiropractic, our chiropractors are trained to recognize the signs and symptoms of tongue and lip ties, collaborate with lactation consultants and specialists to diagnose and revise the ties, and help support a child’s healing and function through specific adjustments and craniosacral therapy. If you have any questions about how we may help your baby, call our office or schedule a consultation. 

In health,

Dr. Abbey

Baby's First Adjustment

Majority of new moms at the office ask me when would be the best time to bring their little ones for a chiropractic adjustment. What are the benefits of a baby getting adjusted? Is it really necessary?  To answer the question about when would be a great time to bring their newborns, there is not a right or wrong answer but I do always encourage the parents to get their baby checked as soon as possible. And This is why!

Birth trauma continues to be an under-treated issue. Complications during birth can create misalignments and restrictions on the baby’s spinal column. It is important to know that most of the neurological development happens within the first year of life. When there are restrictions in their bodies, some might begin to present symptoms such as:  difficulty breastfeeding or latching, torticollis, colic, acid reflux and digestive issues. 

Adjustments for baby’s are very gentle and use less force than the pressure you would apply to your own eye. Yes! It is very gentle! This pressure is enough to correct the restrictions and create changes so the baby's body can work in it’s optimal capacity. 

What happens when my children get older? Do they still need to get adjusted regularly?

During children's growing phases, they start to reach different milestones that are key to a healthy development. Early milestones happen within the first year. A few examples are: holding their head steady without support, rolling from back to tummy position,  holding toys or bottles in their hands, crawling, climbing,  standing up without support and walking. 

Later, during their more independent stages, children will engage in more complicated activities such as kicking a ball, grabbing a bat, dancing, running, hopping and maybe participating in sports. 

All of these activities play an important role in your child’s development even though we don’t realize that often. While reaching these milestones, your child’s body can get misaligned and restricted during the process. It is completely normal! But when the restriction stays on their body for a longer period of time it can cause muscle tightness, joint restrictions and discomfort that can interfere with the child’s daily activities.

Chiropractic care reduces the stress to their bodies and nervous system allowing the body to perform optimally and improve their potential for healing and wellness. Adjustments for the little ones are completely different from adult adjustments. Restrictions are corrected with gentle pressure or using an instrument called an Activator. 

Symptoms mentioned above respond very well to chiropractic care which also supports milestone development and immunity. The purpose of treatment is to restore and maintain normal body function so your little one grows into a happy and healthy adult!

If you are interested in getting more information on how we can help, please visit our website, send an email to info@clechiropractic.com or contact us as (216)952-3830. 

Chat soon!, 

Dr. Shirley

Solid Foods, When to Start and How Feeding Help’s Baby Talk

When a baby is about 6 months old or so, it is very common to start introducing solid foods. Every child will reach their milestones at their own pace. Are you wondering if your baby is ready to start solids? There are a few keys that can tell you if your baby is ready for solid foods: 

• Able to hold and keep their head up while sitting

• Showing interest in food people is eating in his surroundings

• Opens mouth when food is being approached

• Holds spoon and move food from spoon to mouth

Veggies and fruit purees are a great start! Introduce one food at a time to make sure the baby does not have any allergies or reaction to that food. Also, make sure your little one is calm and comfortable when introducing solids, meaning feed a small amount of milk before offering solids so the baby does not get frustrated while being hungry. Also, solids alone will not provide all the nutrients needed during developmental stages. 

Did you know that eating can help babies talk? 

According to Heidi Sloan, pediatric speech-language pathologist, “The mouth has a whole bunch of muscles! The most important, and the most obvious ones, to us are the muscles of the lips, tongue, and the muscles that control the jaw. So, for example, we use our lips to say, ‘ba, and pa, and mmm.’ Those are the same muscles that you use to clear food off of a spoon.”

Feeding can help with speaking abilities, as feeding and swallowing helps babies to build the muscles that are important and needed when talking.

If you are noticing your little one has issues chewing certain foods, they develop tension on their neck and/or jaw, maybe some restrictions on their neck, jaw and upper back might be present. 

Chiropractic adjustments for infants are gentle, specific and comfortable. It helps to restore mobility and decrease tension, improving your child's body function and nervous system. 

Your little one will have great benefits from chiropractic care. Schedule an appointment today! 

Dr. Shirley

216-952-3830

drdelgado@clechiropractic.com

"You Deserve Better than the Standard of Care" - Dr. Candace Gesicki

“You will never get pregnant naturally.”

“You had a baby, you’re going to have low back pain and incontinence when you exercise.  There’s nothing you can really do about it.”

“We can’t do any testing until after you have had your third miscarriage.”

“You are pregnant, you are going to have low back pain and pelvic pain.”

“Your thyroid is normal.  Your symptoms are normal.”

“The pain and numbness around your cesarean scar are normal.”

These are all things patients have shared with me in the last month.  And I wish it was just once, but unfortunately, I am hearing stories like these almost weekly. 

It is not the standard of care to order a full hormone panel, thyroid panel, vitamin D, and more before trying to conceive or after a miscarriage, but far too often do I find patients with a hormone imbalance that can be treated with diet and lifestyle modifications (and occasionally medications).

It is not the standard of care in the United States to refer to a pelvic health therapist after having a baby, yet many women experience incontinence, pain with intercourse, and prolapse.

It is not the standard of care to refer to rehabilitation or soft tissue therapy after a cesarean, yet it is a major abdominal surgery.

It is not the standard of care to order a full thyroid panel initially, but far too often I see patients with a TSH in normal range and (extremely) elevated thyroid antibodies.

Conventional medicine has a time and a place, but it is set up to treat symptoms and diseases with drugs, radiation, or surgery.  Conventional medicine providers use the tools that they have to provide treatment.  Their knowledge in alternative or natural treatments is limited.

How does what we do vary from conventional medicine?

We take a functional approach to your health.  We want you to be an active participant in your healthcare.  This does not mean that we never believe drugs, radiation, or surgery is warranted.  We absolutely refer out to specialists and co-manage when appropriate.   

A functional approach is more complex than “this is low, take this”.  We want to find the root cause of what is going on.  Where is your low back pain stemming from?  Why is your testosterone low?

We don’t have the answers to everything, but I can tell you that if we don’t have an answer, we have no problem telling you this and will help you find a referral to someone that might. 

We are here to listen, to support you, and to provide the best care we can because you deserve better than the standard of care.

Sending love,

Dr. C

Tongue Tie and Lip Tie in Newborns

A tongue and lip tie is a condition present at birth that restricts baby's tongue and mouth range of motion. In some cases, tongue and lip ties may not cause problems, while in others it might require correction. It is always recommended to get an evaluation with a specialist.

Tongue and tie lips can interfere with the baby's feeding process, making breast-feeding uncomfortable for the baby and mother. Common symptoms for possible tongue or lip tie being present are: 

·       Difficulty lifting the tongue

·       Struggling to latch

·       Making clicking sound while nursing

·       Getting tired after nursing

·       Slow weight gain

·       Pain in mother’s nipple or bleeding

In my professional experience, chiropractic care in combination with CST is a great complementary treatment pre- and post- revision for tongue and lip ties. Chiropractic can help rehabilitate the spine, muscles on the mouth, neck and head increasing better tongue and lip movement. 

This type of combined treatment promotes and supports correction on motor skill development of the spine, as well as tongue and mouth. It can also improve latching and breast-feeding, decrease muscle tension around the mouth and jaw, and lessen neck and back restriction in the baby’s spine.

If you would like to make an appointment for your baby, give us a call at (216) 952-3830 or send an email to drdelgado@clechiropractic.com.

Dr. Shirley Delgado Rivera

216-952-3830

Chiropractic Care for Newborns and Toddlers

Recently, several of my patients (especially soon to be moms) have come to me asking how soon they should bring their newborns for chiropractic care after being born? The answer is as soon as they want.  Many moms and dads want to take time to bond with their baby, and that’s completely fine! Your baby can wait until you feel ready. However, at times, some babies can go through trauma during birth. The labor process can place a great amount of stress on the infant as well as the mother. Chiropractic care shortly after birth can help to correct any issues caused during birth.  If baby seems to be colicky, tilting their neck to one side (torticollis), having latching problems, are example of symptoms newborns present that might be caused by restrictions on their bodies.

Infant adjustments are extremely gentle.  There is no audible (“cracking”). The pressure applied is comparable to the force you use if you place your finger on your eyelid and press gently. An adjustment on babies will look like sustained pressure, gentle massages, or small compression. We can also create movement by using an instrument called an activator.

Infant to Toddler

Later in life, when babies turn into toddlers, they start falling frequently. This is completely normal! But falling might start causing restrictions on the toddler’s body. For example, their neck or back can get tweaked a little after a fall. Regular chiropractic care can help to correct any structural restrictions resulting from daily activities such as learning how to walk, play time, and more.

It is never too early or too late to begin chiropractic care for your child. If you want to know more about chiropractic for infants and adults, you can contact me at drdelgado@clechiropractic.com.  I’m here to help!

Dr. Shirley