Pediatric Chiropractor in Seattle
Pediatric chiropractic care at Shepherd Family Chiropractic focuses on gentle spinal and nervous system adjustments to encourage healthy growth, posture, and comfort for infants, children, and teens. Seattle Chiropractor Dr. Edwin Shepherd uses the Activator Methods® protocol, offering a calm and precise style of chiropractic suited for small, developing bodies.
Helping Children Feel More Comfortable as They Grow
Parents often notice changes in posture, movement, or comfort as their little one grows, especially during big milestones like learning to crawl, starting school, or joining a sport. A gentle chiropractic approach may help ease tension in key areas of the spine, giving growing bodies a steadier foundation to work with. Many families in and around our city share that their children sleep better, move more freely, and seem more at ease after a visit.
How Pediatric Chiropractic Works
We assess children using the same Activator Methods protocol as adults, but the amount of pressure, positioning, and tip style varies based on age. For babies up to one year old, the doctor uses a special infant tip and extremely light pressure, often checking the neck, lower back, or sacrum while the baby rests comfortably on the table. Older children and teens receive gentle adjustments tailored to their size and comfort level.
Below is a quick side-by-side look at how the approach shifts across age groups.
| Patient Group | Technique Used | Adjustment Pressure | Goal of Care |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | Activator Methods protocol | Standard pressure | Improve mobility, posture, and comfort |
| Child Under 18 | Activator Methods protocol | Reduced pressure | Encourage healthy movement and posture |
| Toddler | Activator Methods protocol | Very light pressure | Ease tension during rapid developmental stages |
| Infant (Up to 1 Year) | Activator Methods with infant tip | Softest pressure | Gently address spinal balance during early growth |
Why Parents Choose Us for Their Children
- Gentle Activator Methods approach, suitable for every age
- Dr. Shepherd brings over 43 years of hands-on experience
- Webster Technique Certified, often caring for pregnant individuals and their newborns
- Calm, family-friendly environment
- Experienced care for infants through teens
This appointment was for my 7 year old with pronation (rolling in feet/ankles). They handled her wonderful. She was unsure what was going to take place with the feet and back scan, but everyone in the office helped her feel comfortable and showed her ahead of time the tools and let her touch and feel them. I would recommend Dr. Shepherd and his office staff for people of all ages and all aches and pains.
M.S.
Pediatric Training for Advanced Care and Results
Dr. Shepherd brings decades of clinical experience shaped by advanced education and technique-focused training. His background includes graduating from Palmer College, earning an Advanced Proficiency Rating in Activator Methods, completing Webster Technique Certification, and pursuing further pediatric education through the ICPA. Families appreciate this blend of experience and calm, measured care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is chiropractic safe for children?
How does chiropractic benefit children?
Does my child need to be a certain age to receive care?
Schedule a Gentle Visit for Your Child
Ready to learn how pediatric chiropractic care may help your child feel more comfortable as they grow? Our team would be happy to walk you through what a visit looks like. Book your child’s appointment today!
