The #1 Overlooked Reason Why Your Child is Constipated 

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If you are a parent dealing with a constipated child, you are not alone. The immense frustration of seeing your little one struggle, trying remedy after remedy, and still not finding relief can be overwhelming. While it might feel awkward to discuss, constipation affects a staggering one in four children—and even more in children with conditions like autism (70%), anxiety (40%), and ADHD (30%).

As a parent, you’ve probably already explored many options. Maybe your pediatrician prescribed Miralax, or maybe you’ve tried the natural route with diet changes, probiotics, and magnesium supplements. While these approaches may offer temporary relief, many families find themselves stuck in a cycle of recurring issues.

But….why? Because we’re almost always missing a crucial piece of the puzzle.

The Surprising Root Cause

Here’s something that might surprise you: Your child’s constipation may not primarily be about diet or genetics. Instead, there is a good chance it is rooted in their nervous system.

Think of your child’s body as a sophisticated communication network. When this network gets overwhelmed or stressed, it can get stuck in “fight-or-flight” mode. In this state, the body prioritizes certain functions while slowing down others—including digestive motility.

This explains why we often see constipation alongside conditions like:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorder
  • ADHD
  • Sensory Processing Challenges
  • Anxiety

All these conditions share a common thread: an imbalanced nervous system.

A Different Approach to Relief

Let me share a story about Lucas, a seven-year-old who had been struggling with stomach issues since age four. His parents had tried everything—multiple doctors, specialists, x-rays, and even a traumatic experience with a full GI flush combining Gatorade and Miralax. Nothing provided lasting relief.

What finally helped Lucas wasn’t another medication or diet change. It was addressing the underlying nervous system imbalance through Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care.

How Does It Work?

The key lies in something called the vagus nerve—essentially your body’s “relaxation switch.” When properly stimulated, it helps:

  • Activate natural digestive movements
  • Reduce stress response
  • Restore proper gut function

Through gentle and very specific adjustments, we can help “reset” this system. Parents are often amazed to find their children experiencing relief within minutes or hours of their first adjustment—we sometimes playfully call it “hitting the poop button” because the results can be that quick- we’re not kidding!

What Does This Mean for Your Child?

Imagine your child:

  • No longer doubled over in pain
  • Not having to miss out on activities due to stomach issues
  • Finally feeling comfortable and regular
  • Being able to focus on being a kid instead of their digestive problems

Next Steps

If you’re feeling frustrated with endless rounds of Miralax, unsuccessful dietary changes, multiple specialist visits with no answers, or watching your child continue to struggle- there is hope with a different approach! Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care offers a gentle, drug-free option that addresses the root cause of chronic constipation, not just the symptoms.

Your Child’s Path to Relief

Every child’s situation is unique, and finding the right solution starts with understanding the true root cause of their struggles. If you’ve tried everything else and are looking for a natural, lasting solution, call us here at Highest Health Chiropractic today to have your child’s nervous system evaluated. If you are not local to us, check out the PX Docs directory to find an office near you!

Chronic constipation isn’t something your child has to live with forever. By addressing the underlying neurological component, many families find the lasting relief they’ve been searching for.