GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — As we slowly come out of quarantine, we may be overdue for some self care, including a visit to the chiropractor, and this can be something for the whole family.
In the beginning of March, before the pandemic, we spoke with Dr. Theresa Osmer, BS, DC, of FLOW Chiropractic in Grand Rapids on how treatment for pediatrics is becoming more common in the chiropractic world. And we spoke with with a mother of five whose kids have been receiving chiropractic treatment ever since they were born and have noticed a positive outcome.
Whether it’s dealing with digestive or feeding issues, ear infections, bed wetting, colic and more, Dr. Osmer says she can help.
“So I think we've barely scratched the surface on the benefits of chiropractic care,” says Osmer. "A lot of people come in here for pain generated issues, but when we're seeing kids that's not really they're not necessarily complaining of back pain."
She goes on to explain how see can refer children out to other professionals. “With feeding issues, being able to assess is there, like some tension in the mouth that maybe requires a pediatric dentist to assess, or a lactation consultant to help mom with some feeding positions, digestive issues. Even things like ear infections ... I'm not treating that ear infection itself, but what I'm making sure is that any fluid that's building up is draining (using) a special technique."
The main question on many people's mind is, does this hurt?
“Oh, it's really gentle,” says the mom, Brandy Grutter. "You don't hear anything like a pop or a crack, and most of the time the chiropractor can manipulate (children) with just their fingers. I've heard it being said is like putting your finger into the skin of a tomato and just putting a little pressure there and feeling the inside. So, it's definitely nothing to be nervous about."
This treatment has overall made a huge difference in one family's life.
“I am proud to say they're rarely sick, and I think that a lot of that has to do with not only chiropractic but also like whole body and whole mind health,” says Grutter. "None of the kids have ever had ear infections, they've never been on antibiotics. For the most part, they all have a really positive idea of health care."
Dr. Osmer tells us she’s now taking appointments again at FLOW Chiropractic, and everyone will be required to wear masks.
