Not every chiropractor is trained to work with children. Pediatric chiropractic requires specialized education, gentle technique, and a clinic environment that works for families with young kids. Parents in the Twin Cities searching for a pediatric chiropractor should know exactly what to look for before booking an appointment.
This guide walks through the key credentials and questions to ask — and explains why Forward Spine Center in Golden Valley, Minnesota is a trusted choice for pediatric chiropractic care across the metro.
What credentials should a pediatric chiropractor have?
The most important credential to look for is training through the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). The ICPA is the leading certifying body for chiropractors who work with children and pregnant women. ICPA-certified providers have completed advanced coursework in pediatric assessment, gentle adjusting techniques, and neurological development.
Dr. Madeline Klesk at Forward Spine Center holds ICPA training and is one of a small number of pediatric-focused chiropractors in the Golden Valley and northwest Minneapolis area. She also holds Webster Technique certification for prenatal care, making Forward Spine Center a comprehensive resource for families from pregnancy through childhood.
What questions should parents ask a pediatric chiropractor?
Before booking, parents should ask:
- Do you have ICPA training or certification?
- Have you treated infants and newborns, not just older children?
- What techniques do you use for pediatric adjustments?
- Do you coordinate with pediatricians when needed?
- Is your clinic family-friendly with space for strollers and young children?
Forward Spine Center answers yes to all of the above. Dr. Klesk's intake process for new pediatric patients includes a thorough developmental and neurological history review and open communication with the child's existing healthcare team when indicated.
What conditions do pediatric chiropractors treat in the Twin Cities?
Families at Forward Spine Center bring their children in for a wide range of concerns:
- Colic and excessive crying in newborns
- Difficulty latching or nursing preference to one side
- Infant torticollis and plagiocephaly
- Recurrent ear infections
- Constipation and digestive issues
- Sleep disturbances
- Scoliosis monitoring
- Growing pains
- Sports injuries and overuse conditions
- Postural issues from screens and heavy backpacks
- ADD/ADHD support (complementary approach)
- Bed-wetting (enuresis)
How young can a child be to see a chiropractor?
Newborns can be assessed and treated by a pediatric chiropractor. In fact, many ICPA-trained providers recommend an evaluation within the first few weeks of life, particularly following difficult deliveries, vacuum or forceps use, or C-section. The adjustments used for newborns are extraordinarily gentle — light fingertip pressure, no cracking or twisting.
Dr. Klesk sees patients from newborn through teenage years and adjusts her approach entirely based on the child's age and developmental stage.
Is there a pediatric chiropractor near Minneapolis or Golden Valley, MN?
Yes. Forward Spine Center is located in Golden Valley, Minnesota — just minutes from Plymouth, St. Louis Park, Robbinsdale, Crystal, and north Minneapolis. Dr. Madeline Klesk is ICPA-trained and Webster Technique certified, making her one of the most credentialed pediatric and prenatal chiropractors in the Twin Cities metro.
Forward Spine Center accepts new pediatric patients and offers flexible scheduling for families. Same-week appointments are often available.
Does insurance cover pediatric chiropractic care?
Many insurance plans cover chiropractic care for children. Parents are encouraged to contact Forward Spine Center directly to discuss coverage and payment options before the first visit.
