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Spinal Stress in Children
Many people think that only adults can have back and neck problems from traumas. Children, however, are exposed to many different types of spinal stress which can lead to problems if left uncorrected. Physical
trauma to the spine and the result of back pain caused by heavy backpacks has received national attention. Parents are becoming aware of the reality of spinal stress in their children. In addition to the backpack
dilemma, there are numerous overlooked causes of children’s spinal injury not as well known. Simply put, any trauma to the spine can cause misalignment of the vertebrae resulting in immediate or delayed spinal
problems. Most people don’t realize this because children hardly ever complain of pain.
Traumas are in the form of micro or macro. Macro-traumas are the obvious falls, bumps, crashes we know children frequently experience. Micro-traumas are those positional/postural repetitive traumas that we do
not frequently associate as an onset to spinal distortion and, therefore, future pain. Trauma may cause immediate pain, however, many sources of back and neck pain are the result of previous injuries and then
repetitive postural habits exacerbating the original trauma.
Some caused of Macro-traumas in infancy are:
- Operative deliveries (c-section, forceps, vacuum extraction, and, even hand deliveries)
- Falls from beds and changing tables
- Learning how to walk, and falling 25 times a day on buttocks
- Auto-accidents (even minor fender benders)
- Tossing babies into air (causes whiplash)
Some causes of Micro-traumas in infancy are:
- Keeping babies in infant carriers and not allowing enough belly time
- The use of walkers and jolly jumpers
- Encouraging babies to stand before they are ready
- Improper diapering skills
Some causes of Macro-trauma throughout childhood are:
- Playground injuries
- Falls from play activities (roller blading, sledding, bikes etc)
- Sport tumbles, jolts and jars
- Auto accidents, even minor fender-benders
Some causes of Micro-traumas throughout childhood:
- Too many seated hours- regardless of chair
- Sitting on the floor with their feet straight out in front
- Lying on their backs with their heads propped up with pillows to read or watch TV
- Sleeping on their stomachs.
My son Brad has played many sports in his last 17 years. Currently he is playing football. I am thankful to be able to adjust him on a regular basis. At 5’7” and 135 pounds he takes quit a beating. By being under
regular care, this will prevent future spinal and arthritic problems as well as enhance his athletic performance.
Yours in health,
Lynne Sullivan D.C.
www.drsully.com
Ps: We are pleased to welcome Joanne Ciafardini CMT to our office. She is a wonderful massage therapist and will take good care of you. If you would like to make an appointment please give us a call. (925)
484-1070
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