Mom, my legs hurt! Have you ever heard your child complain of pain without being able to explain it? He may be growing up!
Chiropractic in children covers a wide range of conditions. Leg pain affects 25-40% of children. It is frequently encountered in young children aged 3 to 5 and 8 to 12 1. It affects girls more frequently 2.
Typically, the child presents with a history of deep leg pain that wakes him up at night for a period ranging from 30 minutes to 2 hours. The pain is unilateral and localized to the front of the thigh, knee or calf. It may be associated with a feeling of numbness in the leg. Frequently, the pain develops after a day of strenuous physical activity. Many children also complain of vague leg pain on a regular basis3.
The structural integrity of the child's neuro-musculoskeletal system is an essential condition for the proper functioning of his nervous system and all the mechanisms that depend on it. Mild traumas during childhood therefore have an effect on the future development of the spine and can lead to the appearance of interferences in the spine.level of the nervous system and prevent the maximum functioning of the body.
Causes
The exact causes of leg pain are still unknown. Growing pains are a diagnosis of exclusion, which means that other conditions must be ruled out before concluding that the child has growing pains. Thus, a thorough history and physical examination are essential. X-rays and blood tests may sometimes be necessary.
A chiropractic exam
In children with a history of leg pain, the chiropractic physical examination usually reveals joint restriction at the sacroiliac level which produces joint irritation on the side of the pain. Symptoms may be caused by referred pain from the sacroiliac joint. Correcting joint dysfunction usually leads to a decrease in symptoms. Leg massages and certain stretching exercises can also help improve the child's condition 4.
It is important to understand that the Doctor of Chiropractic does not cure disease. His expertise allows him to assess the spine in order to identify joint dysfunctions that could affect the optimal functioning of the nervous system.
Chiropractic adjustment aims to restore nerve function allowing the body to express itself and achieve a state of well-being.being and he alth. It improves proper alignment and mobility of vertebral segments.
Regular follow-up with the chiropractor makes it possible to identify possible sources of spinal dysfunction and thus prevent the appearance of future problems. In addition to chiropractic adjustments, care may include he althy lifestyle recommendations such as ways to improve your child's posture, backpacking tips, and exercises. Good spinal hygiene is the key to better he alth.
For more information, do not hesitate to contact me. It will be my pleasure to answer your questions.
