Pediatric chiropractic care uses gentle, age-appropriate spinal adjustments to address musculoskeletal issues in infants, children, and teens, including postural problems, sports injuries, torticollis, and headaches. At ProCare in Oviedo, FL, Dr. Monica Kim tailors every adjustment to a child’s size, age, and developmental stage using significantly less force than an adult adjustment.
Many parents in Oviedo, Winter Springs, Chuluota, the UCF area, and Greater Orlando ask whether chiropractic care is appropriate for kids and what conditions it can help. This guide answers those questions directly, using current research and ProCare’s clinical approach.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe for Children?
Yes, when performed by a licensed provider trained in pediatric technique. Research published in Global Pediatric Health (2025) found that mild, transient effects such as brief soreness occur in roughly 0.5 percent to 1 percent of pediatric visits, with no serious complications linked directly to pediatric chiropractic care in the peer-reviewed literature since the 1990s.
Pediatric adjustments are not scaled-down versions of adult adjustments. Techniques used on children rely on light, targeted pressure, often just a few ounces of force, and many methods do not involve the joint “popping” sound associated with adult adjustments. Dr. Kim assesses each child’s spine, posture, and range of motion before recommending a care plan, and they explain findings to parents in plain language before any adjustment is made.
What Conditions Can Pediatric Chiropractic Care Help With?
The strength of the evidence varies by condition. ProCare’s team communicates this honestly with parents rather than overpromising results.
Neck pain and headaches. A 2021 randomized controlled trial of children ages 7 to 14 found that spinal manipulation reduced headache days over a four month period compared to standard care. ProCare evaluates cervical spine alignment and muscle tension as part of a headache assessment in children and teens.
Back pain in adolescents. A 2024 randomized controlled trial found that adding spinal manipulation to an exercise program significantly improved outcomes for adolescents with low back pain compared to exercise alone. This is common in student athletes and kids carrying heavy backpacks in the Oviedo and UCF area school districts.
Torticollis. This condition, in which an infant’s neck is tilted or twisted, often responds to gentle cervical alignment techniques combined with stretching guidance for parents to use at home.
Sports injuries and growing pains. Youth athletes in soccer, cheer, gymnastics, and football often develop overuse strain in tendons, muscles, and joints. Chiropractic evaluation, combined with physical therapy and assisted stretch therapy, can support recovery and help identify movement patterns that increase injury risk.
Postural issues from screen time and backpacks. Forward head posture and rounded shoulders are increasingly common in school-age children. ProCare assesses posture and provides corrective exercises alongside adjustments.
Scoliosis support. Emerging research, including a 2024 randomized controlled trial, suggests spinal mobilization added to standard scoliosis care may reduce curvature and related symptoms in the short term. Chiropractic care for scoliosis is supportive and should be coordinated with the child’s orthopedic or pediatric specialist, not used as a replacement for medical monitoring.
What to Expect at a Child’s First Visit to ProCare
- Health history review. Dr. Kim discusses birth history (for infants), injuries, sports activity, posture habits, and any symptoms with the parent.
- Age-appropriate exam. A gentle assessment of spinal alignment, posture, and range of motion, adjusted for the child’s age and comfort.
- Clear explanation. Findings and a recommended plan are explained to the parent before any hands-on care begins.
- Gentle adjustment, if appropriate. Techniques use light pressure suited to the child’s size, whether that is an infant, toddler, or teenager.
- Home guidance. Parents receive practical recommendations, such as stretches, posture cues, or backpack adjustments, to support progress between visits.
Why Oviedo Families Choose ProCare for Kids’ Chiropractic Care
ProCare serves families throughout Oviedo, Winter Springs, Chuluota, the UCF area, and Greater Orlando. Dr. Monica Kim combines chiropractic adjustments with physical therapy, spinal decompression, and assisted stretch therapy (PNF) under one roof, so a child’s care plan can be adjusted as they grow. The practice is bilingual (se habla espanol), making care accessible to more families in the community.
Chiropractic care for children should always be coordinated with the child’s pediatrician, particularly for infants, children with underlying medical conditions, or symptoms following an injury. ProCare’s team works alongside pediatricians and other specialists rather than in place of them.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age can a child start chiropractic care? Chiropractors can evaluate patients from infancy through the teen years. Techniques and force are adjusted for each stage of development, from a newborn’s first weeks to a teenager’s growth spurts.
Does chiropractic adjustment hurt kids? No. Pediatric techniques use light, targeted pressure and are designed to be comfortable. Most children do not report pain during or after an adjustment.
Can chiropractic care help my child’s sports injury? It can be a helpful part of a broader recovery plan that may include physical therapy and assisted stretching. ProCare evaluates the injury first to determine whether chiropractic care, physical therapy, or a referral to another specialist is most appropriate.
Is chiropractic care a substitute for my child’s pediatrician? No. Chiropractic care addresses musculoskeletal function and should complement, not replace, regular pediatric medical care.
Does ProCare treat infants for torticollis? Yes. Dr. Kim evaluates infants for conditions like torticollis and discuss the current evidence on colic directly with parents so they can decide whether chiropractic care fits their child’s needs.
Schedule a Pediatric Chiropractic Evaluation in Oviedo, FL
Parents in Oviedo, Winter Springs, Chuluota, the UCF area, and Greater Orlando can schedule a pediatric evaluation with Dr. Monica Kim by calling ProCare at 407-359-0047 or visiting procarefl.com.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your child’s pediatrician or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition.
