Is Your Child’s Constipation a Sign of a Bigger Issue?

Constipation is common in kids, but that doesn’t mean it’s normal. If your child struggles with infrequent bowel movements, bloating or tummy troubles, it could be a sign that something deeper is going on.

What’s really causing your child’s constipation?

There are several causes of constipation, including:

  • Spinal misalignments and nervous system stress – The nervous system controls digestion, including how the intestines contract to move waste through the body. If there’s misalignment in the spine, especially the lower back or sacrum, nerve function can be disrupted, slowing digestion and causing constipation. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can restore proper function and help things move smoothly again.
  • Gut dysbiosis and imbalance – The gut is home to trillions of bacteria that help digest food and keep bowel movements regular. An imbalance in gut bacteria (too many bad bacteria, not enough good) can lead to bloating, sluggish digestion and constipation. Muscle testing, GI mapping, stool samples and other diagnostic tests can help uncover gut imbalances that may be affecting your child’s digestion.
  • Parasites and environmental toxins – Many parents don’t realize that hidden infections and toxic overload can cause constipation, stomach pain and digestive dysfunction. Parasites, heavy metals and environmental toxins can all play a role in gut health. If your child struggles with chronic tummy issues, teeth grinding, skin rashes or mood changes, it may be worth exploring a gentle detox protocol.
  • Food sensitivities and chronic inflammation – Certain foods, especially those containing gluten, dairy, artificial dyes and processed ingredients, can trigger inflammation in the gut, leading to digestive issues like constipation, bloating or even diarrhea. Eliminating common irritants and supporting gut healing can help relieve discomfort and improve digestion.

How we can help

At Pott. County Sports & Family Chiropractic, we do more than just treat symptoms—we focus on finding the root cause of your child’s constipation so they can feel their best.

✔️ Chiropractic adjustments to improve nerve function and digestion
✔️ Functional medicine, muscle testing and symptom surveys to identify gut imbalances, food sensitivities or toxic overload
✔️ Lab testing, such as blood work, stool samples and GI mapping to get deeper insights into what’s going on internally
✔️ Holistic treatment plans that may include chiropractic care, dietary changes and natural remedies for better digestion

If your child is struggling with constipation, bloating or unexplained tummy troubles, let’s get to the bottom of it. Book an appointment today.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Your Family’s Well-Being

Picture of a family of four smiling together outside

At Pott. County Sports & Family Chiropractic, we understand the integral role that family plays in maintaining health and vitality. Below, we explore how chiropractic care can be a cornerstone of your family’s wellness journey, supporting each member in achieving their health goals and thriving together.

Enhancing Family Wellness

Chiropractic care offers a holistic approach to health that focuses on optimizing the body’s innate ability to heal and function properly. From infants to seniors, every member of your family can benefit from regular chiropractic adjustments. By ensuring proper spinal alignment and nervous system function, chiropractic care promotes overall wellness and resilience to illness.

Providing Preventive Care for All Ages

Just as we prioritize regular check-ups for our teeth and eyes, regular chiropractic visits are essential for maintaining optimal health. By addressing spinal misalignments and imbalances early on, chiropractic care can prevent a myriad of health issues from arising later in life. From improving posture and mobility to enhancing immune function, chiropractic adjustments provide a solid foundation for lifelong health and vitality.

Supporting Active Lifestyles

For families who lead active lifestyles, chiropractic care can be particularly beneficial in preventing injuries and enhancing performance. Whether your family enjoys sports, outdoor activities or simply staying active together, regular adjustments can help ensure that everyone stays in top form. By addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and optimizing biomechanics, chiropractic care supports your family’s ability to move with ease and grace.

Promoting Holistic Healing

Beyond addressing physical ailments, chiropractic care also acknowledges the interconnectedness of the body, mind and spirit. Our holistic approach encompasses not only spinal adjustments but also lifestyle counseling, nutritional guidance and stress management techniques. By addressing the root causes of health issues and empowering families to make informed choices, chiropractic care fosters holistic healing and well-being.

From preventive care to holistic healing, chiropractic care offers a comprehensive approach to family wellness. Schedule an appointment with us today and embark on a path towards optimal health for your entire family!

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Toddlers

Laney Wiechmann at Pott. County Sports & Family Chiropractic

While regular check-ups with the pediatrician are essential, chiropractic care can also play a crucial role in supporting your toddler’s growth and development. Here’s how chiropractic care can benefit your little one:

1. Enhanced immune system – Chiropractic adjustments can help support a healthy immune system. By ensuring proper spinal alignment, chiropractic care helps the nervous system function optimally, which can enhance your child’s natural defense mechanisms against illnesses.

2. Optimal growth and development – A properly aligned spine is crucial for healthy growth and development. Chiropractic care can help address misalignments that might interfere with the body’s natural growth processes, promoting better overall development.

3. Relief from growing pains – Toddlers often experience growing pains, which can be uncomfortable and disruptive. Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate this discomfort, allowing your child to move and play more freely.

4. Improved neurological function – A healthy spine contributes to improved neurological function. Chiropractic care can enhance cognitive development and learning abilities by supporting a well-functioning nervous system.

5. Injury prevention – Regular chiropractic care can help maintain proper posture and alignment, reducing the risk of injuries during play and sports activities. It’s a proactive way to support your child’s physical health.

6. Addressing digestive issues – Chiropractic adjustments can also aid in alleviating common digestive issues like colic, reflux, and constipation, which can make your toddler more comfortable.

7. Better sleep quality – Spinal misalignments can affect sleep quality. Chiropractic care can improve sleep patterns by addressing these misalignments, leading to better rest and overall well-being.

Ready to learn more about how chiropractic care can benefit your toddler? Schedule a consultation with us today and give your child the gift of a healthy spine and nervous system!

How Chiropractic Care Helps Relieve Constipation

Picture of Nate Wiechmann, D.C., adjusting a toddler with her mom nearby.

Digestive health plays a crucial role in overall well-being, affecting everything from energy levels to mood and even sleep quality. When it comes to maintaining a healthy digestive system, many people may not immediately think of chiropractic care, but spinal adjustments can offer significant benefits for improving bowel function.

Let’s explore how chiropractic care can aid in better digestion and healthier bowel movements…

Understanding the Connection Between the Spine and Digestion

The nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord and nerves, plays a vital role in regulating bodily functions, including digestion. The spine houses and protects the spinal cord, which communicates with the digestive organs via nerves that extend from the spinal cord. Misalignments or subluxations in the spine can disrupt this communication, potentially leading to digestive issues like constipation, acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome or IBS.

How Chiropractic Adjustments Support Digestive Health

  1. Restoring Nervous System Function – Chiropractic adjustments help correct spinal misalignments, which can improve nerve function. When the spine is properly aligned, the nerves can communicate more effectively with the digestive organs, facilitating better digestive processes and reducing symptoms like constipation or reflux. By enhancing the communication between the brain and digestive organs, chiropractic care supports the optimal functioning of the gastrointestinal system.
  2. Enhancing Bowel Movements – Research supports the effectiveness of chiropractic care in improving bowel function. For example, a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that children with functional constipation experienced significant improvement in bowel habits following chiropractic adjustments. The adjustments addressed spinal misalignments that were disrupting nerve signals to the digestive system, leading to fewer constipation episodes and reduced discomfort.
  3. Reducing Digestive Discomfort – Chiropractic care can help alleviate digestive discomfort by addressing misalignments that affect the digestive organs. For instance, the Webster Technique, a gentle chiropractic adjustment used primarily with pregnant women, has been shown to relieve symptoms of reflux and improve overall digestive comfort by reducing tension and misalignments in the spine and diaphragm.
  4. Promoting Overall Well-being – Beyond improving bowel function, chiropractic adjustments contribute to overall health and well-being. By ensuring proper alignment and nervous system function, chiropractic care supports better sleep, increased energy levels and enhanced quality of life — all of which can positively impact digestive health.

Integrating Chiropractic Care Into Your Routine

If you’re experiencing digestive issues or simply want to support optimal digestion, consider integrating chiropractic care into your routine. Regular adjustments can help maintain spinal alignment, improve nervous system function and promote better digestive health.

Ready to explore how chiropractic care can benefit your digestive health? Contact us today or use our online scheduling tool to book an appointment.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Breastfeeding Mothers and Babies

Picture of Melissa Wiechmann breastfeeding her baby in a nursery

August marks National Breastfeeding Month, a time to celebrate and advocate for the benefits of breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is not only a natural way to nourish babies but also offers numerous health benefits for both mom and baby. From providing essential nutrients and antibodies to reducing the risk of certain health conditions, breastfeeding plays a crucial role in promoting optimal health and bonding between mother and child. However, breastfeeding can sometimes come with challenges, and many mothers encounter issues such as latch difficulties, low milk supply or discomfort.

At Pott. County Sports & Family Chiropractic, we understand the importance of breastfeeding and offer comprehensive support for breastfeeding moms to ensure they have a positive and successful breastfeeding journey. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the challenges of breastfeeding or an experienced mom seeking support for your breastfeeding journey, we’re here to help.

  • Chiropractic adjustments – Chiropractic adjustments can be incredibly beneficial for breastfeeding moms and their babies. For moms, regular adjustments can help improve spinal alignment and posture, relieving tension in the back, shoulders and neck that may arise from breastfeeding positions. This can alleviate discomfort and improve milk flow, making breastfeeding a more comfortable and enjoyable experience. For babies, gentle chiropractic adjustments can help ensure proper alignment of the spine and nervous system, which can aid in optimal breastfeeding latch and suckling. By addressing any potential issues early on, chiropractic care can promote a smoother breastfeeding journey for both mom and baby.
  • Nutrition counseling – Nutrition plays a crucial role in breastfeeding. By providing personalized guidance on nutrient-rich foods and hydration, nutrition counseling ensures that moms are meeting their increased nutritional needs during breastfeeding. This not only supports maternal health and energy levels but also enhances the quality and quantity of breast milk produced.
  • Biofeedback and diagnostic testing – Biofeedback and diagnostic testing can help identify dietary sensitivities or intolerances that may affect the baby through breast milk, allowing moms to make informed choices to optimize their baby’s health and development. With tailored nutritional recommendations, breastfeeding moms can feel confident in their ability to nourish themselves and their little ones effectively.
  • Fascial and craniosacral work – These gentle techniques focus on releasing tension and restrictions in the fascia and craniosacral system, which can sometimes contribute to latch issues and breastfeeding challenges. By addressing these underlying issues, we can help babies achieve a more comfortable and effective latch, leading to a more successful breastfeeding experience for both mom and baby.

This National Breastfeeding Month, we celebrate all breastfeeding moms and their dedication to providing the best start for their babies. If you’re a breastfeeding mom in need of support, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Or, use our online scheduling tool to book an appointment today. We’re here to support you every step of the way on your breastfeeding journey!

The Importance of Early Intervention for Childhood Scoliosis

Picture of a chiropractor assessing a child's spine

If you’re a parent, you understand the importance of keeping an eye on your child’s health as they grow. One condition that may not be on your radar but requires attention is childhood scoliosis. Scoliosis affects the curvature of the spine and can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

Imagine your child’s spine as the backbone of their overall health. When scoliosis develops, it can affect more than just their posture. It can impact their lung capacity, heart function and even their ability to move comfortably. Severe cases, known as severe kyphosis, can interfere with breathing, digestion and cognitive function, affecting your child’s quality of life both now and in the future.

Signs of Scoliosis

As a parent, it’s essential to be vigilant for signs of scoliosis. Watch for the following signs:

  • Uneven shoulders
  • A prominent shoulder blade
  • A visibly curved spine

While some cases are mild and may not require treatment, others may progress and need intervention to prevent further complications.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care offers a gentle, non-invasive approach to managing childhood scoliosis. Through targeted adjustments and corrective exercises, chiropractors can help improve spinal alignment, reduce discomfort and slow or halt the progression of the condition.

If you notice any signs of scoliosis in your child, don’t wait to seek help. Early detection and intervention are crucial for preventing future complications. Schedule an appointment today to ensure your child gets the care they need to thrive.

The Ripple Effect of Pediatric Adjustments: Benefits for the Whole Family

In recent years, pediatric chiropractic care has gained recognition for its ability to support children’s health and well-being. But did you know that the benefits of pediatric adjustments extend beyond the child receiving care?

Here’s a look at how pediatric adjustments can have a positive ripple effect on your family:

  1. Stronger immune function: Pediatric adjustments help optimize the function of the nervous system, which plays a crucial role in immune function. By removing interference in the nervous system, adjustments help enhance the body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses, keeping the whole family healthier.
  2. Better sleep: Many parents report that their children experience improved sleep after receiving chiropractic adjustments. By addressing spinal misalignments and tension, adjustments help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality for both children and parents.
  3. Easier feeds: For infants struggling with feeding difficulties, pediatric adjustments can offer relief. By ensuring proper alignment in the spine and nervous system, adjustments may help alleviate tension that can interfere with feeding, making feeding sessions easier and more comfortable for both baby and parent.
  4. Optimal digestion: The nervous system plays a significant role in digestion, regulating processes like peristalsis and enzyme production. Pediatric adjustments help optimize nervous system function, leading to improved digestion and nutrient absorption for the whole family.
  5. Overall ease and comfort: When children experience discomfort or tension due to spinal misalignments, it can impact the entire family dynamic. Pediatric adjustments promote proper alignment and balance in the body, resulting in greater ease and comfort for children and parents alike.

In conclusion, pediatric chiropractic care offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the child receiving care. By addressing spinal misalignments and optimizing nervous system function, pediatric adjustments can have a positive ripple effect on the whole family, promoting better health and well-being for everyone. Contact us to learn more, or use our online scheduling tool to book an appointment.

Can Chiropractic Care Help Relieve Ear Infections?

Picture of Nate Wiechmann, D.C., looking in a toddler's ear to assess for an infection.

Research shows that nearly 80 percent of children experience at least one ear infection by the age of three. Below, we discuss the common causes and symptoms of ear infections, as well as how chiropractic care can help.

What causes ear infections in children?

Ear infections are primarily bacterial infections. They happen when a child’s Eustachian tubes swell and become blocked. This swelling and blockage causes fluid to accumulate in the middle ear behind the eardrum. Typically, this occurs when a child has an upper respiratory infection. Swelling and blockage in the Eustachian tubes can also be attributed to excess mucus, allergies, changes in air pressure, swollen adenoids and secondhand smoke. Moving to an area with a significantly different climate, traveling from a high to a low altitude, or using a pacifier can also increase the likelihood of developing an ear infection.

It’s also worth noting that there are two different types of ear infections: chronic ear infections and acute ear infections. Acute ear infections don’t last very long and typically clear up without treatment. Chronic ear infections, on the other hand, usually require some sort of treatment to prevent them from reoccurring. If your child is experiencing chronic ear infections, it’s important to seek treatment right away in order to prevent permanent damage to the inner ear.

What are the symptoms of an ear infection?

Common symptoms include:

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Fussiness or frequent crying
  • Tugging or pulling at the affected ear(s)
  • Inability to detect low-decibel sounds
  • Pus-like fluid drains from the ear(s)
  • Fever, particularly in newborns and younger children
  • Pain (even mild) in the ear
  • A persistent feeling of excess pressure inside the ear
  • General lack of body balance
  • Changes in mood/mood swings

How can chiropractic care help?

Chiropractic care is a safe and effective way to relieve pain or discomfort caused by ear infections. At our clinic, we use a gentle, non-invasive treatment known as a chiropractic adjustment to reduce joint restrictions and misalignments in the spine. Upper cervical adjustments help promote fluid drainage, reducing the likelihood of buildup and subsequent infections. Chiropractic adjustments of the occiput (back of the skull) and atlas (first cervical vertebra) help prevent chronic ear infections by correcting misalignments and dysfunction.

Below are some of the benefits chiropractic adjustments provide for children with ear infections:

  • Relief from pain and discomfort
  • Increased mobility in the upper spine
  • Decreased inflammation

Want to learn more about pediatric chiropractic care? Visit our blog post. Please use our online scheduling tool to book an appointment, or call 712-249-8231 for more information.

Five Benefits of Pediatric Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is not only for adults. From babies to toddlers to teens, children can also benefit from a trip to the chiropractor’s office.

As a father myself, I observed several benefits with our daughter, who was born 12 weeks early. Because she was born prematurely, she was at an increased risk of certain neurological and digestive disorders. She also had to spend several weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), hooked up to several cords that limited her range of motion. Shortly after we brought her home, my wife and I noticed that our daughter occasionally had trouble latching or going to the bathroom, and would become overly fussy or inconsolable. When these things would happen, I’d gently assess her spine to provide relief. I could instantly tell a difference, as her body would relax into my arms and she’d stop crying. In many cases, she’d be able to resume nursing right away and/or go to the bathroom within 12-24 hours. Having a little one of my own has made me more aware of the importance of regular pediatric chiropractic care, and I’m honored to be able to help parents find similar relief for their children.

Below are five important benefits of taking your child to the chiropractor.

Improved Sleep

Sleep is an essential part of a child’s life. It doesn’t just help them function. It’s also important for their development and emotional wellbeing. Unfortunately certain tensions can make it difficult to sleep, often leading to insomnia. Since chiropractic care works to relieve stress in the body, it can also improve sleep.

Immune System Function

Chiropractic care has many benefits for a child’s immune system. It can help those suffering from a cold or infection, as well as improve immunity functions. Going to a chiropractor can also improve a child’s digestive system and target related issues, such as stomach problems, constipation and acid reflux.

Better Behavior

Less stress leads to better behavior. Chiropractic care helps children improve their attitudes by releasing tension. Improved sleep can also reduce stress, which can help your child function better during the day.

Nervous System Support

The benefits of pediatric adjustments extend into the nervous system. Chiropractors make sure the spine is growing in the correct way. This prevents and treats certain nervous system issues like ear infections. Pediatric chiropractic care can also treat asthma, allergies and other respiratory issues by targeting misaligned nerves that affect a child’s respiratory system.

Brain Development

Chiropractic care can improve your child’s neural brain development by releasing pressure on bones and joints as well as the spine. Increased brain development promotes better concentration, improved focus and reduced hyperactivity. This includes targeting conditions like ADD and ADHD.

Please use our online scheduling tool to book an appointment, or call 712-249-8231 for more information.