Constipation Care in Granite City
One minute your child is playing. The next, they’re doubled over with a tummy ache or crying on the toilet (again). If you’re running out of ideas, you’re far from the only parent who’s been there.
When a Child’s Digestion Hits the Brakes
Constipation means pooping less often than usual, or passing stools that are hard, dry, and painful to push out. Kids catch on fast. After one painful trip, many start holding it in, and that just makes the next one harder.
Here’s the reassuring part. Most childhood constipation is “functional,” which simply means there’s no underlying disease behind it.
New Patients
Everyday Habits That Slow Things Down
Sometimes it’s what’s in the snack cupboard. Sometimes it’s a recess nobody wants to miss for a bathroom break. The usual suspects:
- Not enough fiber from fruits, veggies, and whole grains
- Too little water during the day
- Holding it in at school or while playing
- A change in routine, like travel or starting daycare
- The switch from breast milk or formula to whole milk and solid foods
- More sitting, less running around
Tummy Troubles That Show Up in Surprising Ways
Several days without a bowel movement is usually what parents spot first. When it finally happens, the stool may be large, hard, or painful to pass. You might even see a little blood on the toilet paper from straining.
Other clues are sneakier: crossed legs, squirming, or a child who disappears into a corner when the urge hits. Stomach aches, a poor appetite, and small smears in underwear can be part of the picture too.
When Home Remedies
Aren’t Doing the Trick
You’ve added water. You’ve added fiber and more time outside. If a week or two goes by with no improvement, it’s time for a closer look.
Some signs can’t wait, though. Vomiting, a swollen belly, weight loss, fever, or constipation in a newborn all call for your pediatrician right away, before anything else.
Gentle Hands and Real-Life Tips for Your Family
First, Dr. Laura Shipley listens. She’ll ask what your child eats, how much water they drink, what their bathroom routine looks like, and when the trouble started.
Next comes a gentle exam of the spine, pelvis, and posture. If chiropractic looks like a good match, the adjustments are light and easy for kids to handle. Dr. Shipley may also teach you a simple belly massage to try at home, plus fiber ideas that picky eaters might actually eat (yes, there are a few).
And if another approach would help your child more? She’ll tell you straight and point you to the right provider. Every family should walk out of Shipley Chiropractic knowing what comes next.
Easier Bathroom Trips and a Happier Tummy
For many families, gentle care and better daily habits working together is what makes the difference. Over a few weeks, you may notice more regular bathroom trips and fewer stomach aches.
Get Your Kiddo Back to Feeling Like Themselves
A backed-up tummy can turn even a fun day sour. Dr. Shipley will take a gentle look and help you sort out the next step. Call Shipley Chiropractic at (618) 931-2001 to book an appointment.
