A visit to the chiropractic clinic can help an adult like yourself with everything from chronic back pain to muscle spasms or poor alignment. But most chiropractors are willing to work with people of all ages, and this could include a younger person such as your son or daughter. You'll want to call your local clinic first and make sure they see children, but if they do, your next task will be to make sure your child is prepared for what's to come. Here are some tips to keep in mind when taking your child to see a chiropractor for the first time.

Explain That the Chiropractor is Another Type of Doctor Who Can Help Them

If a young person needs a chiropractor early in life, it's likely because you or another doctor has noticed that something is not quite right. Maybe the child's spine or another part of their body is not developing properly or is misaligned. Maybe there are muscle or bone problems that you want an expert to take a closer look at. If your child has ongoing issues, they likely already know what a doctor is, so just explain that this is a special kind of doctor who can provide additional help.

Explain the Basics of What the Chiropractor Does So They Are Not Scared

Your child is obviously not used to the idea of having a stranger put his or her hands on their body, and suddenly receiving a massage or what might feel like a back rub to the kid might make them feel funny or a bit alarmed. Explain why the chiropractor needs to touch them to examine them and explain that you will be in the room with them while the exam goes on if you think that's a good idea. You might even want to let a very young child "practice" for the appointment by lying face down on the sofa or a table and then showing them a bit of what to expect at the chiropractor.

Take Your Child to Visit the Clinic Before the Appointment and Let Them Know When the Appointment is Well in Advance

What might help best though is if that "stranger" that's touching them is not actually a stranger at all because your child has already met them. You may be able to schedule a "getting to know you appointment" to discuss your child's issues or bring your child along with you for one of your own appointments. Communicate with your child that they will be coming back for a real appointment and don't spring the visit on them at the last second, as that might instill additional uncertainty or fear. Contact your local chiropractic clinic today for more tips.

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