In response to a concerned reader by Chiro Paul

I would like to take this opportunity to respond to our physician reader who had concerns about manipulating children. I want to start off by saying that any sort of therapy carries risks. Even taking medication can be lethal. We can't say that manipulation is bad and forget about it. It has its own place in healthcare. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals and practice rigorously before they open their clinics.

Manipulation of the spine of a baby does not involve twisting nor forceful maneuvers. In fact it is a very gentle touch with the tip of the index finger. In order to have an idea, the force that is used is like keying in the numbers on a phone pad. So it is extrememy gentle. Any mother who has been to a chiro can vouch for that. In fact, the process of birth in itself is a lot more traumatizing and forceful than a chiropractic adjustment. That image will put things in perspective for you. Our spine is not as fragile as we think!
Every time we hear a story about something that has gone wrong, we have to make sure that we have the facts straight. Often we hear about out of the ordinary events through the media. Don't forget that the media want to sell and that's all they care about. Therefore they are not our best source of information.
There are always contraindications to adjustments. Meaning, certain people are not good candidates for manipulations. We test for that and proceed accordingly. We are highly trained professionals and go through 5 years of chiropractic schooling. We know our limits and we know who we can and who we cannot or should not treat.
Millions of people get adjusted every day in thousands of clinics around the world. Yet we rarely hear about serious accidents. Statistically speaking, in the medical world that is very safe.
Every time we consult a health care professional we have to go to someone with experience. In the health care world that plays a big role. Ask for references every time you or relatives or friends consult a health care professional.
I hope I demystified the world of chiropractic a little and for any questions PLEASE do not hesitate to ask and raise concerns.
Dialogue and communication will help us understand each other.