Chiropractic Care for Constipation in Newborns and Children: Gentle Support for Healthy Digestion

If you’ve ever watched your child struggle with constipation, you’re not alone. Did you know that up to 30% of children and adolescents worldwide experience constipation at some point? In fact, functional constipation—the most common form—affects about 1 in 8 school-aged children, with prevalence estimates ranging from 9% to 17% in pediatric populations. Surprisingly, constipation is responsible for up to 3% of pediatric primary care visits and as much as 25% of referrals to pediatric gastroenterologists.

Many parents have a gut feeling that there must be something else they can try before turning to medications like Miralax. The good news is, there are gentle, effective options available that support your child’s body naturally.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Healthy Digestion and Elimination

Chiropractic adjustments are designed to improve communication between the brain and the digestive system. The nerves that control the gut originate in the spinal cord, especially in the lower back and pelvis. When there’s tension or misalignment in these areas, nerve signals may not flow as they should, which can slow down digestion and make it harder for your child to have regular bowel movements.

Using gentle techniques, chiropractic care helps restore balance and movement in the spine and pelvis. This encourages better nerve function, allowing the brain to send clear signals to the intestines and supporting healthy digestion and elimination.

Chiropractic care also addresses tension in the muscles and ligaments of the glutes and associated muscles of the pelvic floor. These areas play an important role in supporting the body during elimination. Gentle adjustments and soft tissue work help relax these muscles, reducing tightness and making it easier for your child to go to the bathroom. When the glutes and associated muscles are relaxed and the pelvis and lower back move freely, children can more comfortably and naturally have bowel movements.

The Importance of Pediatric Chiropractic Experience

Working with infants and children requires a unique approach and understanding of their developing bodies. Dr. Mikayla from Active Life Chiropractic is trained through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), ensuring she is knowledgeable in the gentle techniques needed for young patients.

Pediatric chiropractic care is very gentle—often using no more pressure than checking the ripeness of an avocado. These adjustments are safe, non-invasive, and designed to support your child’s health at every stage of growth.

Supporting Your Child at Home: Stretches and Exercises

Dr. Mikayla believes in empowering parents to help their children between visits. During your appointment, she demonstrates gentle stretches and exercises to promote relaxation and mobility in the spine, pelvis, and gluteal muscles. After each session, she emails these stretches to you so you can continue supporting your child’s progress at home.

Gentle Care for Lifelong Health

Chiropractic care for children is about more than just relieving constipation—it’s about supporting overall health and development. By improving nervous system function, relaxing the glutes and associated muscles, and restoring mobility to the spine and pelvis, chiropractic care can help your child feel better, sleep better, and grow up strong and healthy. Learn more about our pediatric chiropractic services here!

If you’re looking for a gentle, effective way to support your child’s digestive health, consider visiting Dr. Mikayla at Active Life Chiropractic. With her experience and compassionate approach, Dr. Mikayla is here to help your child thrive.