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Birth Trauma: How It Can Affect Your Baby’s Spine
The birth of a baby is an exciting moment for every family. However, the birth process can also place significant physical stress on a newborn.
In some cases, this stress may contribute to birth trauma and affect a baby’s spinal health and overall movement as they grow.
This article explains what birth trauma is, how it may affect your baby’s spine and development, and when pediatric chiropractic care may be appropriate.
What is a Traumatic Birth?
Birth trauma refers to physical stress or injury that may occur before, during, or shortly after delivery. Certain birth circumstances may place increased pressure on a baby’s head, neck, or spine.
These include:
- Prolonged labor
- Caesarean delivery
- In-utero constraint
- An unusual fetal presentation
- Forceps or vacuum-assisted delivery
In some cases, this mechanical stress may contribute to soft tissue strain, joint dysfunction, or changes in spinal alignment. Within chiropractic, these changes in spinal alignment are commonly referred to as vertebral subluxations.
Understanding Birth Trauma
While childbirth is a natural process, it is also physically demanding for both mother and baby. When excessive force affects a baby’s head or neck during delivery, it may contribute to muscle tension and changes in normal spinal function.
Common Signs of Birth Trauma
The signs of birth trauma can vary from one baby to another. Some infants may show symptoms shortly after birth, while others develop them over time.
Common signs may include:
- Colic
- Irritability
- Ear infections
- Difficulty nursing
- Poor sleep patterns
Some of these issues may improve naturally over time. However, persistent symptoms should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Possible Long-Term Effects
If birth-related spinal or muscular dysfunction persists, it may continue to affect movement and overall function. Possible long-term concerns may include:
- Poor coordination
- Developmental delays
- Learning difficulties
If you’re concerned about your baby’s symptoms or development, a qualified healthcare provider can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate care.
Understanding Torticollis
One condition that may develop following birth-related mechanical stress is torticollis, also known as wry neck. According to Cleveland Clinic, torticollis can develop in babies from birth through the first three months of life.
It may occur when limited space in the womb, such as during a breech pregnancy or twin pregnancy, causes one neck muscle to tighten and shorten.
The affected sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle runs from the collarbone to behind the ear. When it becomes shortened, it pulls the baby’s head to one side while rotating the chin toward the opposite shoulder.
How Pediatric Chiropractic Care May Help
At Whole Family Chiropractic, every baby receives a thorough evaluation before any care is recommended. We carefully assess your baby’s spine, movement, and overall musculoskeletal function to better understand their individual needs.
Our pediatric chiropractors provide gentle, safe, age-appropriate chiropractic care designed specifically for infants. Care is always tailored to your child’s age, symptoms, and findings from the evaluation.
When appropriate, our approach incorporates the corrective principles of Chiropractic BioPhysics® (CBP®) to support healthy spinal alignment and nervous system function.
Our goal is to support healthy movement and spinal function while promoting your baby’s healthy growth and development.
Why Families Trust Dr. Jessica Dachowski
Dr. Jessica Dachowski provides advanced pediatric chiropractic care for infants and children at Whole Family Chiropractic.
She earned her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic and is Alaska’s only board-certified Diplomate in Pediatrics and Pregnancy.
Her advanced pediatric training allows her to provide individualized chiropractic care for infants following a difficult birth, with every care plan tailored to each baby’s unique needs.
Make an Appointment with Whole Family Chiropractic
If your baby has experienced a difficult delivery or you’re concerned about symptoms that may be related to birth trauma, our pediatric chiropractic team is here to help.
We can evaluate your child’s spine, discuss your concerns, and determine whether chiropractic care may be appropriate for your family’s needs.
Contact Whole Family Chiropractic today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your child’s options for care.