Chiropractic care has grown in popularity among families seeking alternative or complementary treatment options for children. From colic and ear infections to spinal alignment and posture correction, parents often turn to chiropractors to help manage non-emergency conditions. While many treatments are considered safe when performed by trained professionals, errors in pediatric chiropractic care can result in serious injuries.
When a child is harmed during or after a chiropractic adjustment, it may raise legal concerns about negligence.
In such cases, working with a chiropractic malpractice attorney, birth injury lawyer, or doctor negligence lawyer may be necessary to explore whether the injury was preventable and whether compensation is warranted.
The Rise of Pediatric Chiropractic Care
More chiropractors are offering services to infants and young children. Some of the most common reasons parents seek chiropractic care for their children include:
• Colic or excessive crying
• Sleep disturbances
• Breastfeeding challenges
• Misalignment after a difficult birth
• Scoliosis or postural issues
• Chronic ear infections or headaches
Chiropractic adjustments in children are generally gentler than those used in adults. However, even light force, if misapplied, can result in unintended consequences—especially in newborns and infants with developing bones and delicate nervous systems.
Potential Risks and Injuries in Children
Although rare, adverse outcomes following chiropractic treatment for children have been documented. Common concerns include:
• Spinal fractures or dislocations
• Nerve damage
• Worsening of preexisting medical conditions
• Airway compression
• Soft tissue injuries
In newborns and infants, where bones and joints are not yet fully developed, improper technique can have lasting effects. For example, pressure on the neck or upper spine may lead to breathing issues, feeding difficulties, or developmental delays. In some cases, a birth injury lawyer may become involved if chiropractic care was administered shortly after a difficult delivery, potentially compounding trauma from birth.
When Does Chiropractic Care Become Negligent?
Not all injuries that occur after chiropractic care are the result of negligence. However, a chiropractor may be held liable when they:
• Fail to conduct a proper medical history or screening
• Treat a child for conditions outside their scope of expertise
• Apply excessive or unsafe pressure during adjustments
• Neglect to refer the child to a medical doctor when necessary
• Ignore or fail to respond to complications or warning signs
Chiropractors have a duty to follow pediatric safety standards, and when that duty is breached, it can result in injury. A doctor negligence lawyer can investigate whether the chiropractor’s conduct deviated from what a reasonably competent provider would have done in the same situation.
Legal Implications of Pediatric Chiropractic Injuries
Children who suffer injuries due to chiropractic negligence may face long-term consequences requiring physical therapy, ongoing medical treatment, or educational accommodations. Legal action may be appropriate when:
• The injury resulted in measurable harm
• There is evidence of negligence or poor decision-making
• The chiropractor failed to obtain informed parental consent
• The treatment involved unnecessary or unproven interventions
A chiropractic malpractice attorney can help gather the necessary documentation, consult with pediatric specialists, and determine the extent of liability. In cases where injuries occurred soon after birth and are linked to compounded trauma, a birth injury lawyer may also assist in evaluating the complete medical history.
What Compensation Can Be Pursued?
If negligence is proven, families may be entitled to compensation for:
• Medical bills (past and future)
• Therapy and rehabilitation
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of developmental milestones
• Future educational or caregiving needs
Each case is unique and requires a thorough evaluation of the child’s current and projected needs. Partnering with a trusted lawyer who understands the nuances of pediatric injury law can help families navigate these emotionally difficult situations with clarity and confidence.
How to Proceed if You Suspect Chiropractic Negligence
If you believe your child was harmed due to chiropractic treatment, take the following steps:
1. Seek immediate medical evaluation to document and treat the injury.
2. Request and secure all chiropractic and medical records related to your child’s care.
3. Note any symptoms or behavioral changes that occurred after treatment.
4. Consult a qualified attorney who specializes in malpractice and pediatric injury cases.
Timeliness is important. Each state has specific statutes of limitations for filing medical negligence claims, and waiting too long could limit your options for legal recourse.
Final Thoughts
Chiropractic care for children, while often well-intentioned, can pose significant risks when not administered carefully and professionally. Infants and young children are particularly vulnerable to injury, and chiropractors treating pediatric patients must exercise the highest level of caution and competence.
When a child is harmed due to a chiropractor’s failure to meet these standards, families have the right to seek answers and accountability. Whether the injury occurred shortly after birth or later in childhood, working with a chiropractic malpractice attorney, doctor negligence lawyer, or birth injury lawyer can help ensure that negligent care providers are held responsible and that affected children receive the support they need to heal and thrive.
