Pediatric Chiropractic

Kids have spines and nervous systems, too. From birth through the teen years, children's bodies go through rapid growth, countless tumbles and a lot of time with backpacks, screens and sports. At Actus Chiropractic, Dr. Val Tompkins provides gentle, family-centered chiropractic care for infants, children and teens in Brentwood and East Contra Costa County.

Dr. Val has been certified in chiropractic pediatrics since 2001 and is a Fellow of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA) — specialized training that goes beyond the standard chiropractic degree.

How Pediatric Chiropractic Is Different

Children are not small adults. Pediatric adjustments use very light, specific pressure — often about the same pressure you'd use to check a ripe tomato. Dr. Val adapts every visit to your child's age, size and comfort level, using gentle methods such as craniosacral work and the Koren Specific Technique (KST). There is no forceful "cracking." Many babies sleep right through their visit.

Why Parents Bring Their Children to Actus Chiropractic

Infants and babies

• Checkups after birth, especially after a long or assisted delivery
• Trouble turning the head to one side or favoring one side
• Difficulty latching or feeding comfortably on one side
• Fussiness and trouble settling

Toddlers and children

• Bumps and falls while learning to walk, climb and play
• Posture and spinal development checks
• Growing pains and general wellness care

Teens

• Sports injuries and athletic performance
• Back and neck pain from heavy backpacks
• Tech neck and poor posture from phones and gaming
• Headaches from stress and screen time

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Kids

Regular, gentle care supports healthy spinal alignment and nervous system function as children grow. Parents often notice better posture, easier movement, and kids who feel more comfortable in their bodies. Our goal is to help your child build a strong foundation for a healthy, active life.

Is Chiropractic Safe for Babies and Children?

Gentle pediatric chiropractic care from a trained provider has a strong safety record. Every visit starts with a careful history and age-appropriate exam. Dr. Val explains everything to you before he begins, and parents stay with their child for the whole visit. We work alongside your pediatrician and will refer you if your child needs medical care.

A Family Wellness Center for All Ages

Actus Chiropractic is a true family practice. Many parents start with pregnancy chiropractic care and continue with their newborn. Dr. Val also coaches local youth through Freedom High School water polo and a summer camp for East Contra Costa County kids, so he understands growing, active bodies.

Pediatric Chiropractic FAQs

At what age can my child see a chiropractor? Children can be checked at any age, including newborns. Techniques are adjusted to your child's age and development.

Does a chiropractic adjustment hurt my child? No. Pediatric adjustments use very light pressure. Most children find them relaxing.

How do I know if my child needs a chiropractor? Signs can include favoring one side, frequent falls or injuries, poor posture, back or neck complaints, or headaches. A gentle exam can tell you more.

How often should children be adjusted? It depends on your child's needs. Many families schedule periodic wellness checks, with more frequent visits after injuries or growth spurts.

Can I stay with my child during the visit? Always. Parents are part of every pediatric visit.

Schedule Your Child's Visit

Give your child a healthy start. Call Actus Chiropractic at (925) 516-2363 or request an appointment online(opens in new tab). Proudly serving families in Brentwood, Oakley, Antioch, Discovery Bay, Byron and Knightsen.