Your child could be healthier!

By Dr. Jennah Dieter, D.C., C.A.C.C.P.
Carrie brought her child, Anton, to me when he was 4 years old. He had already taken over 10 antibiotics so far, had chronic ear, sinus, and lung infections, and had diarrhea constantly. Carrie was worried, scared and frustrated with him always being sick and taking so many medications. At first, she was a little apprehensive about chiropractic and had never been to a chiropractor before, but she was referred to me by her best friend whose child’s health improved dramatically while under my care. Plus, she wanted to try something different-something more natural without dangerous side effects.

We sat down and discussed Anton’s health and nutritional history thoroughly and conducted an in-depth analysis of his spine and nerve system. I detected nerve system interference, diminishing nerve energy to his sinuses, ears and throat. I also found a link between his diet and immune challenges and suggested dietary modifications and nutritional supplements to support his digestive and immune systems. During Anton’s first adjustment, we gently released the nerve stress from his spine and cranium. Carrie was surprised at how gentle and easy the adjustment was, and that Anton loved the treatment! Within 2 weeks, Anton’s health started to turn around. His eyes started to brighten and he was no longer congested and running to the bathroom during meals. Carrie continued to bring in Anton regularly for chiropractic adjustments and nourishing him with real-whole foods. Now, 4 years later, Anton is a healthy 8 year old boy and has never been on antibiotics while under my care. Carrie has asked me to do all that I can to help others like her son to be healthier.

Unfortunately, stories like these are not uncommon in my practice. The children in our community are getting sicker and sicker. Dr. Jeanne Van Cleave, with the Center for Child and Adolescent Health Policy in Massachusetts states that chronic illnesses in children, including asthma, obesity and behavior problems, have increased from 12.8 percent in 1994 to more than 25 percent in 2006 (JAMA, 2010).

Studies such as these stress the dire need to focus on children’s health. The positive side is that natural healing methods show great promise to turn children’s health around. USA Today reports that nearly 3% of children in the U.S. were treated with chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation in 2007, making it the second-most common form of complementary or alternative medicine for children (USA Today, 1/19/09).

It is important to understand that the Doctor of Chiropractic does not treat conditions or diseases. The expertise of the chiropractor is in checking the child’s spine for nerve system stress caused by misalignments (subluxations). Nerve system stress, left unaddressed, impairs the child’s ability to function in a state of optimal health and well-being. Although symptoms, such as pain and malfunction may not show up for many years in the child, injury to their vital nerve systems can have a lifetime of damaging effects. Children who suffer from frequent ear infections, colds, digestive problems, and allergies may be suffering from nerve stress. Chiropractic removes nerve stress and children can greatly benefit from this drug-free approach to healing. The chiropractic adjustment restores nerve system function allowing the body the ability to express a greater state of health and well-being.

Doctors of Chiropractic also advocate a natural lifestyle and can help families incorporate healthier physical, mental, and nutritional habits in order to attain overall wellness. Doctors of Chiropractic who are members of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) utilize advanced techniques specific to the care of pregnant mothers, infants and children.

Common reasons why your child should be checked by a chiropractor:

1. Difficult birth
2. Difficulty nursing or favoring one side
3. Colic or Reflux
4. Trouble sleeping
5. Ear infections
6. Frequent colds/infections
7. Falls or contact-sport involvement
8. Allergies/Asthma
9. Behavioral problems (ADD, ADHD, Autism)
10. Poor posture



Chiropractic Benefits:

1. Increased Immunity: fewer colds/infections
2. Increased Athletic Potential
3. Increased energy
4. Relief from allergies/asthma
5. Better sleep habits
6. Reduction in hyperactivity
7. Scoliosis & postural improvement


-Dr. Jennah Dieter, Certified Pediatric/Perinatal Chiropractor (ICPA), Clinical Master in Nutrition Response Testing. Healthcare Complete, 260 Merrimac St., Towle Bldg, Colonial Wing, Newburyport, MA. 978-499-WELL (9355). Offering complimentary consultations for children & adults.