Infant, Child & Young Athlete Care
From newborns to competitive teen athletes, Dr. Kelchen provides gentle, age-appropriate chiropractic care that supports healthy development, relieves pain, and helps young patients thrive.
Chiropractic Care Designed for Growing Bodies
Children are not simply small adults. Their spines, joints, and nervous systems are in a constant state of development — and they deserve care that reflects that. Dr. Kelchen uses specialized, age-appropriate techniques that are completely different from adult adjustments: lighter, gentler, and precisely calibrated for each stage of development.
Infant Care
Newborns & Babies
The birth process — even a normal, uncomplicated delivery — places significant stress on an infant's spine and nervous system. Gentle chiropractic assessment and care can help address common newborn concerns and support healthy development.
Common Conditions We Help:
- Birth trauma and torticollis
- Colic and excessive crying
- Difficulty latching or nursing
- Sleep disturbances
- Ear infections (otitis media)
- Reflux and digestive issues
Infant adjustments use no more pressure than you'd use to test a ripe tomato — extremely gentle, safe, and specifically adapted for a baby's delicate structure.
Child Care
Toddlers through Teens
Children are constantly growing, learning, and falling — all of which can affect spinal alignment and nervous system function. Regular chiropractic check-ups help ensure your child's spine develops properly and their nervous system functions at its best.
Common Conditions We Help:
- Growing pains
- Scoliosis screening
- Posture problems from heavy backpacks
- Sports injuries and falls
- Headaches
- Concentration and focus issues
Pediatric adjustments are tailored to each child's age, size, and development. Techniques are gentle, quick, and most kids actually enjoy their visits.
Young Athlete Care
Competitive & Recreational Athletes
Young athletes push their bodies hard. Whether your child plays one sport year-round or competes in multiple activities, chiropractic care helps them perform at their peak, recover faster, and reduce the risk of overuse injuries.
Common Conditions We Help:
- Overuse injuries (Little League elbow, Osgood-Schlatter)
- Sprains and strains
- Concussion recovery support
- Hip and knee pain
- Shoulder and rotator cuff issues
- Performance optimization
Dr. Kelchen was a 4-sport athlete himself and understands the demands placed on young athletes. He combines chiropractic adjustments with Graston Technique, Active Release, and sport-specific rehabilitation.
A Doctor Who Understands Young Athletes
Dr. Brian Kelchen was a 4-sport athlete throughout his youth and has experienced firsthand the physical demands placed on young, competitive bodies. He began receiving chiropractic care at age three and credits it as a key part of his own athletic development and recovery.
That personal experience shapes how he approaches pediatric and young athlete care today. He doesn't just treat symptoms — he educates young patients and their parents on proper mechanics, injury prevention, and the importance of spinal health during critical growth years.
Over 14 years and 11,000+ patients, Dr. Kelchen has built a practice that welcomes patients of every age — from newborns to seniors — with the same commitment to personalized, evidence-based care.
Learn More About Dr. Kelchen
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from parents about pediatric chiropractic care.
Is chiropractic care safe for infants and children?
Yes. Pediatric chiropractic is extremely safe when performed by a trained chiropractor. The techniques used for infants and children are completely different from adult adjustments — very gentle, low-force, and specifically adapted for developing bodies.
At what age can a child see a chiropractor?
Children can be seen at any age, including newborns. Many parents bring their infants in within the first few weeks of life, especially after a difficult delivery. Dr. Kelchen has experience caring for patients of all ages.
How do I know if my child needs chiropractic care?
Signs that may indicate your child could benefit include: head tilting to one side, difficulty turning their head, one shoulder higher than the other, frequent ear infections, colic, poor posture, or recurring sports injuries.
Will my child need X-rays?
Not necessarily. Dr. Kelchen performs a thorough physical examination first. X-rays are only recommended when clinically necessary, and we always use the lowest possible radiation dose.
How is a young athlete's treatment different from an adult's?
Young athletes are still growing, so their treatment plans account for open growth plates and developing musculoskeletal systems. We also focus heavily on education — teaching young athletes proper movement patterns and injury prevention strategies.
Give Your Child the Gift of a Healthy Spine
Schedule a gentle, comprehensive evaluation for your child today. No referral needed.