Chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation for children in the United States: an analysis of data from the 2007 National Health Interview Survey.

Ndetan H Evans MW Jr, Hawk C, Walker C.
J Comp Med Dec. 2012

OBJECTIVES:
The aim of this study was to describe use of chiropractic and/or osteopathic manipulation by children in the United States along with the specific health conditions for which they sought care.

RESULTS:
National estimates indicated that 2.3 million children (2.3%) in the United States had used Complementary procedures in 2007. SMT was the most common complementary and alternative medicine procedure. Children aged 12-18 years were more likely to have seen these providers than were younger age groups.
The most common complaints were back and neck pain. Other conditions for which children were seen included other musculoskeletal conditions, sinusitis, allergies, and non-migraine headaches.

CONCLUSIONS:
Chiropractic or osteopathic manipulation is primarily used for back and neck pain, which is increasing in prevalence in children. Teens are more likely to use it than are younger children.