Winter in Amherst means one thing for many families: hockey season. Between practices at Northtown Center at Amherst, weekend games, and hours spent in skates, young athletes put serious demand on growing bodies.
If your child complains about sore legs, knee pain, hip discomfort, or aches that show up after skating (or at night), it’s easy to assume it’s “just growing pains.” But often, there’s more going on—especially when the spine and pelvis are under repetitive stress.
At Spurback Family Chiropractic, we look at growing pains through a nervous system and alignment lens, helping kids move and grow with fewer setbacks.
Why “Growing Pains” Aren’t Always About Growing
When the pelvis and spine aren’t moving well, it can affect how your child’s body absorbs impact and coordinates movement. Over time, repetitive strain (like skating) can amplify that imbalance.
How Hockey Impacts the Developing Spine
Skating is a unique sport. The body stays in a forward-leaning position, hips rotate repeatedly, and quick stops put pressure through the pelvis and lower back. Add in falls or collisions, and it’s easy to understand how the sacrum and lumbar spine can become stressed. Some common patterns we see in young hockey players include:
- Tight hips and hamstrings
- Uneven movement or posture
- One-sided leg pain
- Discomfort after practice that lingers into the evening
Warning Signs It’s More Than “Normal Soreness”
Every sport comes with muscle fatigue, but certain signs can point to a deeper issue:
- Pain that keeps returning after activity
- Limping or changes in movement
- Leg pain that disrupts sleep
- Ongoing knee or hip discomfort without a clear injury
If these symptoms sound familiar, it may be worth checking whether spinal or pelvic alignment is contributing.
Gentle Chiropractic Care for Young Athletes
Pediatric chiropractic adjustments are not like adult adjustments. At Spurback Family Chiropractic, care is gentle, light-touch, and tailored to your child’s size, age, and comfort level. Our goal is to support proper spinal development, reduce tension, and help the nervous system communicate clearly as your child grows.
We often combine care with simple movement support. For hockey families, a few helpful at-home habits may include:
- A short post-practice hip flexor stretch routine
- Gentle hamstring stretching (no pushing into pain)
- Hydration and warm nutrition after cold rink time
- Checking skate fit as feet grow quickly
Helping Your Child Stay Confident on the Ice
Growing pains can sideline kids physically and emotionally. When pain becomes a regular part of the season, it can chip away at confidence and enjoyment. Supporting your child’s alignment and nervous system can help them stay active, recover more smoothly, and feel better in their body.
Want to help your young athlete move through hockey season with fewer aches? Book a visit at Spurback Family Chiropractic in Amherst today. We’re here to support your child’s growth and performance—gently and naturally.
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