How to Choose the Right Chiropractor for Your Baby & You

When it comes to chiropractic care, many people associate it with back pain relief—but for babies and parents, the right chiropractor can offer much more. From supporting nervous system function, mobility, and alignment to helping babies with feeding difficulties, tension, and sleep, a qualified chiropractor can play a key role in whole-body wellness. However, not all chiropractors are trained to work with infants and families. If you’re considering chiropractic care for your baby or yourself, here’s what to look for when choosing the right provider.

1. Find a Chiropractor Certified in Pediatric & Perinatal Care

Chiropractors who specialize in working with infants and pregnant or postpartum parents receive additional training beyond standard chiropractic education. One of the most recognized organizations for this is the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), which provides evidence-based training in pediatric and perinatal chiropractic care.

When searching for a chiropractor, ask if they are ICPA certified or if they have completed specialized coursework in infant and prenatal chiropractic care. You can also check the ICPA directory for chiropractors in your area who specialize in family care.

Pro Tip: You can search for an ICPA-certified chiropractor at icpa4kids.com

2. Choose a Chiropractor Who Focuses on Function, Not Just Symptoms

Unlike adults, babies and young children don’t always show obvious signs of discomfort or pain, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need support. A high-quality chiropractor will assess function rather than waiting for symptoms to appear.

Look for a chiropractor who checks for:

  • Baby’s head turning preference (favoring one side can indicate tension).

  • Shoulder or body tightness affecting feeding or movement.

  • Proper spinal and cranial alignment, which can impact digestion, sleep, and motor development.

  • Parent posture and mobility—because postpartum bodies need support too!

A brain-based or function-first chiropractor looks beyond pain relief and considers how alignment affects nervous system regulation, digestion, and overall wellness.

3. Ask About Gentle Techniques for Babies

Pediatric chiropractic care is very different from adult adjustments. Instead of forceful movements or “cracking,” trained pediatric chiropractors use gentle pressure, light mobilization, and cranial work to support the baby’s nervous system and development.

When speaking with a chiropractor, ask:

  • What techniques do you use for infants?
  • How do you assess a baby’s alignment and nervous system health?
  • Do you offer pre/postnatal care for parents as well?

A well-trained chiropractor will be happy to explain their approach and reassure you that their methods are safe, effective, and tailored to babies’ delicate systems.

4. Consider Experience with Specific Concerns

Many parents seek chiropractic care for specific concerns such as:

  • Breastfeeding & Latch Issues – A misalignment in the baby’s spine or jaw can impact their ability to latch or turn their head comfortably.

  • Torticollis or Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome) – A chiropractor trained in infant care can gently release tension and encourage proper movement.

  • Colic & Digestive Issues – Chiropractic adjustments may help relieve tension affecting digestion and gas discomfort.

  • Postpartum Recovery for Parents – Birth can take a toll on a parent’s body, and proper chiropractic care can help restore alignment, relieve tension, and improve mobility.

5. Find a Chiropractor Through Our Holistic Practitioner Map

The best way to ensure you’re choosing a qualified chiropractor is by finding one who specializes in holistic, function-first care. Instead of searching through countless directories, visit our Holistic Practitioner Map to locate trusted chiropractors near you who focus on whole-family wellness.

Find a Chiropractor Near You with Our Holistic Practitioner Map

The Bottom Line: Chiropractic Care Should Be Supportive & Specialized

Finding the right chiropractor for your baby and yourself can make a huge difference in your overall well-being. Look for a provider who is ICPA certified, focuses on function over symptoms, uses gentle infant techniques, and has experience in pediatric and postpartum care.

If you’re interested in holistic family wellness, Fox & Cub Family Wellness is here to support you! Explore our resources, connect with trusted practitioners, and feel confident in making informed choices for your family.

How to Choose the Right Chiropractor for Your Baby & You

Learn More About Dr. Nicole Strasko

Dr. Nicole Strasko brings extensive experience as a Chiropractic Doctor, Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Health & Wellness Coach, and Personal Trainer. She specializes in holistic family wellness and provides personalized support for parents, infants, and children.

If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Nicole Strasko and the services she offers through Fox & Cub Family Wellness, visit our Meet Our Consultants page!