Ceci Wong, D.C., CACCP
Since finishing my doctorate in chiropractic, I have become increasingly interested and active in postgraduate pediatric studies, and over the last several years, I have have dedicated myself to this end. Through my practical experience with treating babies, combined with my studies, it has become very clear to me the importance of treating babies from their birth through childhood and beyond. This extends to the parents, as well, in the preconception phase, as this phase is vital to setting the ideal foundation for a healthy baby. In the future, I hope to further contribute to the field of pediatric chiropractic by doing research on these subjects, as well as on how chiropractic care can help with various health issues that affect many of us throughout our lives.
Through my studies, I have become certified in the Webster technique, which supports my chiropractic therapy, and has helped me treat many mothers-to-be in preparing their bodies (the baby’s first home) to be in its optimal state of health. Over the years, I have heard many stories of the difficulties mothers can have with pregnancies and deliveries, and this motivates me to try and give the expecting mothers help and guidance through their pregnancies. My goal is to improve the physiology and biomechanics surrounding the pregnancy, from a chiropractic perspective, to help create the best conditions for the baby’s position in the womb and for the upcoming delivery.
There are many developmental milestones to observe for a child and chances to check that the neurological and physiological development is progressing in the desired way, free from physical hindrances and restrictions to this process. The strain and difficulties with the delivery process can be traumatic for both mother and baby, and with such a delicate body, it can sometimes be the baby’s first trauma. Traction forces from a vacuum pump extraction, for example, could leave the baby with restricted movement in a vertebral joint and/or soft tissue irritation, which could cause significant discomfort to the baby and leaving him/her with no option except to cry. The developmental process can be affected from birth to adulthood, with every fall on the bum or bump to the head for a toddler, or sports injury or postural issue for a teenager, altering this process. As children grow and get older, there are many important teaching opportunities for them to learn how to take care of themselves, be mindful and aware of the effects injuries have on their bodies, and educate them to make better choices regarding their overall health.