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Sleep Regression in Infants and Kids: A Comprehensive Guide by Pinnacle Chiropractic

Portrait of Dr. Matt Morris of Pinnacle Chiropractic Pediatric and Prenatal Chiropractor in Lakewood Ranch, FL.
Dr. Matt Morris
September 1, 2024
Tired baby experiencing sleep regression, receiving gentle care at Pinnacle Chiropractic.

Welcome to Pinnacle Chiropractic
At Pinnacle Chiropractic, located in Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and Bradenton, Florida, we specialize in pediatric, prenatal, and family chiropractic care. We understand the challenges parents face when it comes to their children's health and well-being, including sleep issues. One of the common concerns we hear from parents is about sleep regression in infants and kids. This webpage is dedicated to helping you understand sleep regression, its causes, and how our chiropractic care can support your child's healthy sleep patterns.

What is Sleep Regression?

Sleep regression refers to a period when a baby or child who previously slept well suddenly begins waking up frequently during the night, has difficulty falling asleep, or takes shorter naps. These regressions can occur at various stages of development and are typically linked to significant milestones in your child's growth and development.

Common Ages for Sleep Regression
  • 4 Months: Often linked to rapid brain development as your baby starts to become more aware of their surroundings.
  • 8-10 Months: This stage is typically associated with motor development milestones such as crawling and pulling up to stand.
  • 12 Months: As your baby transitions from infancy to toddlerhood, increased activity and independence can disrupt sleep.
  • 18 Months: Separation anxiety and the development of language skills may lead to sleep disturbances.
  • 2 Years: With increased mobility and the onset of nighttime fears, many toddlers experience disrupted sleep at this age.

Causes of Sleep Regression

Sleep regressions can be triggered by several factors, including:

  • Developmental Milestones: As your child learns new skills, their brain becomes more active, leading to disrupted sleep patterns.
  • Growth Spurts: Physical growth can cause discomfort, making it harder for your child to sleep through the night.
  • Teething: The pain and discomfort of emerging teeth can lead to frequent waking.
  • Separation Anxiety: As your baby becomes more aware of your presence, they may struggle with being apart from you, especially at bedtime.
  • Changes in Routine: Traveling, illness, or changes in daily schedules can all contribute to sleep regression.

Understanding these causes can help you navigate sleep regressions with more patience and knowledge.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Sleep Regression

At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we focus on nervous system-based chiropractic care that supports your child's overall health and well-being. Here’s how our specialized chiropractic care can address sleep regression:

1. Balancing the Nervous System:

Sleep patterns are regulated by the central nervous system. Misalignments in the spine, particularly in the upper cervical region, can interfere with the nervous system's ability to function optimally. By gently adjusting these misalignments, we help restore balance to the nervous system, promoting better sleep.

2. Alleviating Discomfort:

Physical discomfort, such as tension in the spine or misalignments due to growth spurts, can cause restless sleep. Our chiropractic adjustments can relieve this discomfort, helping your child sleep more soundly.

3. Supporting Developmental Milestones:

As your child reaches new milestones, their body undergoes significant changes. Chiropractic care helps ensure that their spine and nervous system are aligned, supporting healthy development and minimizing disruptions to sleep.

4. Reducing Stress and Anxiety:

Chiropractic adjustments have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation and calming the nervous system. This is particularly beneficial for children experiencing separation anxiety or nighttime fears.

What to Expect During a Pediatric Chiropractic Visit

At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we take a gentle and personalized approach to pediatric care. Here’s what you can expect during a visit:

  • Comprehensive Assessment: We start with a thorough assessment of your child’s health history, sleep patterns, and any concerns you may have.
  • Gentle Adjustments: Using age-appropriate techniques, we perform gentle spinal adjustments to correct any misalignments and support the nervous system.
  • Holistic Recommendations: In addition to chiropractic care, we may provide advice on sleep routines, nutrition, and other holistic approaches to support your child’s sleep.

Our goal is to work alongside you, providing the support and care your child needs to thrive.

Tips for Managing Sleep Regression at Home

While chiropractic care can significantly support your child’s sleep, there are also steps you can take at home to help manage sleep regression:

  1. Maintain a Consistent Routine: Keep bedtime and nap times as consistent as possible to help regulate your child’s sleep patterns.
  2. Create a Calming Sleep Environment: Ensure your child’s sleep space is quiet, dark, and comfortable. Consider using white noise or a nightlight if it helps your child feel more secure.
  3. Practice Patience: Sleep regressions can be challenging, but they are temporary. Offer comfort and reassurance to your child during this time.
  4. Monitor for Signs of Discomfort: If you notice signs of discomfort such as tugging at the ears (indicating ear infections) or excessive drooling (suggesting teething), seek appropriate care.
  5. Encourage Daytime Activity: Engage your child in plenty of physical activity during the day to help them expend energy and sleep more soundly at night.

Why Choose Pinnacle Chiropractic for Your Child’s Sleep Health?

At Pinnacle Chiropractic, we are committed to supporting your family’s health journey. Here’s why parents trust us with their children’s care:

  • Specialized Pediatric Care: Our team is trained in pediatric chiropractic techniques that are safe, gentle, and effective for children of all ages.
  • Holistic Approach: We believe in treating the whole child, addressing the root causes of health concerns rather than just the symptoms.
  • Family-Centered Care: We understand the importance of family in a child’s well-being, and we work closely with parents to provide the best care possible.
  • Experience and Expertise: With years of experience in pediatric chiropractic care, we have helped countless families navigate sleep regressions and other developmental challenges.

Contact Us
If you’re struggling with sleep regression in your child, we’re here to help. Contact Pinnacle Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how our chiropractic care can support your child’s sleep health.

Phone: 941-822-8828
Address: 7984 Cooper Creek Blvd Suite 104, Bradenton, FL 34201

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They have been there for my first pregnancy, my miscarriage, and thankfully another pregnancy.
Pinnacle has truly been such a blessing in mine and my daughter life. All their staff care so much about you as an individual and of course your health. They have been there for my first pregnancy, my miscarriage, and thankfully another pregnancy. They have such a wealth of knowledge to share and help you along your journey. Pinnacle cares for you like family and we are so grateful for that.
Both of my kids have made improvements since starting here 4 months ago and my husband and I have learned a lot too.
Can’t say enough good things about Pinnacle Chiropractic! While my son Ryan may have a fav doc ;-) we love all the docs and the whole staff here equally!!! Everyone is warm, friendly and welcoming. Moving from a different state and trying to find our tribe here was challenging, but we were welcomed in and Pinnacle has helped us find our way. Both of my kids have made improvements since starting here 4 months ago and my husband and I have learned a lot too. We are very grateful for the whole Pinnacle team and recommend them whenever we can.
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Pinnacle Chiropractic
7984 Cooper Creek Blvd., Suite #104
University Park, FL 34201
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