CHILDREN'S HEALTH

Children have special needs through their various stages of development.

Bedwetting, or nocturnal enuresis, is a common issue for many children.  This can cause significant emotional stress, social anxiety and affect self-esteem.  Since it is an involuntary action, many treatments show little benefit.  I take a different approach and consider if there are other physical issues that can make the bladder and pelvic abdomen irritated.  Of course, your physician should evaluate for primary physical issues to ensure there is not a bladder or urethral conidiation.  And so if there is not, I take a functional approach.  Among the first things to consider is if there is a food sensitivity that can increase abdominal irritability, and also to evaluate the health of the digestive tract, which is the primary organ of the abdomen.  An irritated intestine can affect the neighbouring organs such as the bladder, pressure from this or a full bowel can occupy space and pressure the bladder, making it more sensitive.  A food sensitivity test or Comprehensive stool analysis can help to identify functional medicine concerns.

In the early years, it is important to monitor the milestones of development. As our children grow to school age, we want to ensure immune issues like asthma, eczema and allergies are identified and well-managed. As they enter school we want to support healthy attention and focus, as well as physical activity. As they enter their teens a whole new set of concerns appears. Boys and girls have their special needs during puberty including hormone health, but also skin issues like acne, and digestive complaints may appear. Young ladies may need special assessment and support with their menstrual cycles. 

Dr Joe is sensitive to the special needs of children of all ages and is able to work with them to help them understand how food and lifestyle can be an important factor in their health. Our online booking system is available here for you to book an initial appointment.