...chiropractic adjustments. Even so-called "natural" birthing methods can stress a still-developing spine.   The resulting irritation to the nervous system can be the cause of many newborn health complaints. Colic, unexplained crying, poor appetite, breathing problems, and allergic reactions can often be traced to nervous system dysfunction caused by a malfunctioning spine. Head support, followed by crawling, and a baby's first few steps should be followed by chiropractic checkups. If neglected, the bumps and falls during this period of rapid growth may lead to serious spinal deformities later in life. This can set the stage for scoliosis, "growing pains," and a weakened immune system response. Chiropractic adjusting techniques are modified to fit a child's size, weight, and unique spinal problem. Parents often report that their children seem healthier than other kids their age. Many spinal problems seen in adults begin in childhood. Proper spinal hygiene is an important key to better health. Do you know a child who could benefit from chiropractic care? Children benefit from chiropractic care before they are born, by having a mother who recieves prenatal chiropractic checkups. A healthy diet, proper exercise, a stress-free environment, and a chiropractic lifestyle help prepare for a happy, healthy baby. This period of rapid development, hormonal changes, the laxity of connective ligaments, and shifting of weight-bearing structures, may cause many pregnant women to experience low back pain. Chiropractic care can be quite helpful.   Modified approaches can make chiropractic adjustments for pregnant moms easy and comfotable. Besides helping to relieve the discomfort many expectant mothers experience, chiropractic care helps normalize nervous system function. This is an important component of overall good health. The benefits of chiropractic care may also be noticed during delivery. Many chiropractic patients report that their deliveries were faster and more comfortable than delivers previous to chiropractic care! Your Doctor of Chiropractic will take special precautions with you during your pregnancy. Modifications to the table or adjusting techniques are made during each stage of pregnancy. Pamper yourself and your baby with regular chiropractic checkups. Women who give up smoking, eat healthy foods, and avoid alcohol during pregnancies are to be congratulated. Those receiving prenatal chiropractic checkups, demonstrate even more concern for their still developing babies. · REFERENCES · Towbin, Abraham, M.D., Latent Spinal Cord and Brain Stem Injury in Newborn Infants. Develop Med. Child Neurol., 1969. 11:54-78. Gutmann G., M.D., Manuelle Medizin. Springer-Verlag, 1987. Chiropractic and Children. The Journal of the CCA, Vol. 23, No. 3, September, 1979. Webster, L., D.C., Subluxation Birth and Early Childhood. International Pediatrics Literature, March 1989. Jackson, R., M.D., The Cervical Syndrome. Charles C. Thomas 1977. Plaugher, G., D.C., Anrig Howe, C., D.C., Textbook of Clinical Chiropractic, Williams and Wilkins, 1993. Peet, J., D.C., Chiropractic Pediatric and Prenatal Reference Manual, 2nd edition, Baby Adjusters, Inc. Publications, 1992. Diakow, P.R., Gadsby, T.A., et al, Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 14(2):116-118, February, 1991. Esch, S., Zachman, Z., Adjustive Procedures for the Pregnant Chiropractic Patient, Chiropractic Technique, 3(2):66, May, 1991. MacLennan, A.H., Nicholson, R., Green, R., Bath, M., Serum Relaxin and Pelvic Pain in Pregnancy, pp 243-245, Lancet II, 1986. Maitland, D., MBE Vertebral Manipulation, 5th edition, Butterworth, 1986. Ostgood, M.D., Anderson, M.D., Schultz, PhD. Miller, PhD, Influence of Some Biomechanical Factors on Low Back Pain in Pregnancy, Spine Magazine, Vol. 18, 1993. Peet, J., D.C., Chiropractic Pediatric and Prenatal Reference Manual, 2nd edition, Baby Adjusters, Inc. Publications, 1992. Plaugher, G., D.C., Anrig-Howe, C., D.C., Textbook of Clinical Chiropractic, Williams and Wilkins, 1993. Rothman, M.D., Simone, M.D., The Spine, 3rd edition, W.B. Saunders, 1992. © 1999 Back Talk Systems, Inc.