Table 3 Text examples of clinic websites marketing chiropractic for children in the context of subluxation

Text showing the marketing of chiropractic for children in the context of subluxation

“During the process of delivery, there is tremendous stress placed of the head and neck of the baby and often this stress causes Vertebral Subluxations of the very delicate spinal bones of the infant. This, in turn, affects the spinal cord and parts of the nervous system of the baby and can produce a myriad of health problems. These can appear seemingly unrelated to the process of delivery, and can affect your child months or years later. Subluxations associated with birth trauma could contribute to several ailments, such as colic, hyperactivity, ear infections, lowered resistance, asthma, bed-wetting, loss of focus in school, constipation, colitis, and a multitude of others. Research even suggests that spinal subluxations in the upper neck may be involved in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). According to German researcher G. Gutmann, MD, Ph.D., a “spinal check-up after birth should be obligatory.” His studies, spanning over a period of 35 years, concluded that over 80% of all children have a subluxation at birth.” [29]

“Furthermore, the use of clamps and vacuums can easily lead to subluxations (spinal misalignment). Misalignments in the spine may be irritating your baby’s nervous system and causing the colic … Even a very gentle chiropractic adjustment can clear up major subluxations in an infant. Sometimes, it will take several treatments to restore the alignment of the spine and ensure healthy development is on track. A properly aligned spine restores the nervous system to its optimal function, allowing the body to heal and thrive. Many people have observed that even after a minor adjustment, their child’s capacity for breastfeeding is increased and they cry less because they are more comfortable. Once the child’s nervous system is fully functioning, they are at a decreased risk for allergies, ADD/ADHD, colds, flus, ear infections, asthma, and delayed development.” [30]

“Newborns, infants and children get subluxated just like adults do. Often the first subluxations come from the birth process itself and that was most likely the start of the problems for this little guy. His birth was long and difficult and involved suction and forceps. Since the effects of subluxation can be seen where ever the nervous system goes (everywhere) newborns are our most important patients. Correcting subluxations in newborns allows innate intelligence to direct their proper development, growth AND organ function...It would have been best (and is always best) for this boy to have been checked by a Chiropractor as soon after birth as possible.” [31]

On the same website: “I have never checked a child who was diagnosed with ADHD that did not have subluxation (interference with the spinal cord). When the subluxation is corrected these children decrease and most get off their Ritalin. Even now, among the medical community, there are warnings about the dangerous side effect of Ritalin. The problem is they are still looking for the solution to health problems in the form of a pill. Great health comes from within through an optimal spine and nerve system.” [32]

“As the child begins to participate in regular childhood activities like skating or riding a bike, small yet significant spinal misalignments (subluxations) may occur. If neglected, the injuries during this period of rapid growth may lead to more serious problems later in life. Subtle trauma throughout childhood will affect the future development of the spine leading to impaired nervous system function. Any interference to the vital nerve system will adversely affect the body’s ability to function at its best.” [33]

“In this video, Dr. Anrig explains how subluxations affect children. She explains the impact subluxations have on a child’s immune system as well as the impact on the nervous system and how that affects a child’s overall health.” [34]

“Often times, misalignment or malfunction of the spine can occur sooner than we may think. Intrauterine constraint, abnormal positioning, and spinal distress from the delivery process can all lead to spinal subluxation (misalignment or malfunction). Everyday bumps, slips, and falls also have an effect on children’s developing spines and nervous systems. Ideally, your baby or child should have their spine and nervous system checked by a pediatric chiropractor as early as possible to promote proper function, especially after birth trauma or intervention. A tremendous amount of neurological development occurs during the infant and childhood years, so it’s important to ensure they have every opportunity to maximize nerve function during these critical periods. If left uncorrected, even minor subluxations and resulting nerve system dysfunction may develop into major health issues over time. Gentle and specific chiropractic adjustments can help to correct these subluxations, and allow for a properly functioning spine and nervous system at all ages. Many parents of children under regular chiropractic care have reported their children’s improvements in concerns such as recurring ear infections, colic, acid reflux, difficulty with feeding or attachment, torticollis, bedwetting, asthma, allergies, 2behavioural issues, neurodevelopmental disorders, immune function, and more. Chiropractic is not designed to, nor do we intend to treat any specific condition; chiropractors simply locate and correct interferences to the nervous system, so that the body is allowed to express health freely!” [35]