Dr. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP
Pediatrician | Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine
2222 E 2nd St Casper WY, 82609Rating
3/5
About
Dr. Shelley Springer is a Neonatal-Perinatal & General Pediatrics Physician practicing in Casper, WY. Dr. Springer cares for children of all ages, from premature infants through age 22 years. Neonatal-Perinatal Physicians treat conditions such as breathing disorders, birth defects, infections, and any other life-threatening medical problems, including premature birth. They coordinate with their young patients' families and other physicians to determine appropriate treatment after discharge from the hospital, which Dr. Springer continues in her General Pediatrics practice. Dr. Springer also accepts pediatric patients who may have on-going and/or complex medical issues not typically cared for by general pediatricians. Her practice is recognized by the NCQA, as well as by the State of Wyoming, as a "best practices Patient Centered Medical Home."
Education and Training
Medical College of Ohio medical degree 1994
Medical University of South Carolina Master's Degree 0
Newport University JD 2008
Board Certification
pediatrics
American Board of Pediatrics
neonatal-perinatal medicine
Provider Details
Dr. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP's Expert Contributions
Tonsillectomy question?
Yes, from a health perspective. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
Can you boil water for formula in advance?
Boiling water for formula is not recommended. When you boil the water, the "pure water" escapes as vapor, leaving the toxins, heavy metals and other contaminates behind. (That "vapor," when captured, is how to make "distilled water.") Therefore, you have essentially INCREASED the concentration of the precise elements that you were trying to eliminate. Use bottled water or water filtered through a commercial filtration system. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How long do you boil water for babies?
Do not boil water for babies. When you do that, the steam that is produced is the "pure water" and all of the toxins are left behind in the pan. By boiling the water, you are actually INCREASING the amount of toxins/poisons rather than decreasing them. (The "steam" that is produced is how distilled water is made.) Just use purified or bottled water. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How much milk should my 18 month old drink?
For toddlers who are no longer drinking breastmilk, there is no physiologic reason why they should -- or need to -- drink the milk of another animal, including cow's milk. Cows' milk often causes health issues for toddlers, including constipation, skin rashes/eczema, lots of nasal mucus/phlegm/congestion, abdominal pain and discomfort. Toddlers who continue to drink a lot of cows' milk often demonstrate decelerating weight curves --- the cows milk turns to a semi-solid in the stomach, suppressing the appetite, but doesn't provide adequate nutrition to support healthy growth. Cow's milk inhibits the absorption of iron, causing or exacerbating anemia. The vitamins added to cows milk -- vitamins A and D, are "fat-soluble," so, drinking low fat or non-fat milks does not allow for absorption of the vitamins and they are just excreted. READ MORE
Is Pedialyte good for toddlers with a fever?
Pedialyte was created as a way to prevent dehydration from diarrhea. It is a physiologic mixture of sugar, salt, water, and other trace minerals called "electrolytes." It preceded "sports drinks," which are similar, but are commercialized and not as scientific. It's not "dangerous" to give Pedialyte to a toddler, but it tastes odd, and s/he may not want to drink it. It's also expensive. Plain water is all that children need to drink. READ MORE
When can I moisturize my newborn?
Newborn infants don't need moisturizer -- nature provides them with natural emollients to keep their skin in good shape. The peeling that you might see is not dry skin, it's sloughing of the top layer of skin since they've been in a water bath x 9 months! Bathing your baby, especially if you use soaps, destroys the natural oils, and can lead to dry, irritated skin. Because your baby isn't out playing in the mud or getting dirty, s/he doesn't need a bath and certainly doesn't need soaps. Just keep his/her creases clean, that is, under the neck, under the arms, and the diaper area. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How soon can you give a newborn a tub bath?
Babies don't really need tub baths because they're not doing things that get them dirty! Tub bathing is stressful for an infant and the harsh soaps and water can remove the natural oils on their skin and dry it out. However, bathing is cultural and parents like to do it. Be sure to wait until your infant is gaining weight and otherwise demonstrating s/he has adapted to life outside of the womb. The belly button must be completely dried/healed over and, if you had your infant son circumcised, be sure that, too is fully healed. Your pediatrician will tell you at your 2-week visit if it's safe for you to bathe your baby, and provide other instructions. Remember, NEVER turn your back on your infant in the bathtub, even for a second! Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How do you give a 3 week old a bath?
Neonates and young infants don't really need "tub baths" as they're not doing anything to get them dirty!! Just keeping their "creases" clean -- under the neck, armpits and groins, is really all that's needed. However, bathing is a cultural and emotional experience for the parents, so it's done frequently. Try not to bathe your infant more than 1-2 times weekly, as the water can wash away the healthy skin oils and then you'll be asking about treatments for dry skin! Avoid all soaps, but especially the commercial ones -- even Johnson & Johnson, as they can be harsh and irritating. The water should be just warmer than body temperature. Put your elbow into the bath if you're planning to place your baby in the bathwater to test it. If you have a commercial baby bathtub, use it, although NEVER EVER leave the baby even for a SECOND!!! Accidents happen all too quickly. If you choose to hold your baby to bathe him/her, place him on your outstretched forearm that's crooked just a bit at the elbow, with his head cradled in your hand, your thumb and little finger around the back of his neck under his ears. Legs straddle your arm. This is a secure position to hold your infant and you comfortably can wash him/her in a sponge-bath fashion. Be sure the room is very warm and you have a towel immediately ready, because infants lose heat quickly to their environments, which can be very stressful. If you wash his/her hair, be gentle and avoid soaps on the face, even if they're "tear-free." Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How can I relieve my baby's dry skin?
Often, "dry skin" on a baby is the result of overbathing and irritating baby shampoos and lotions. Nature provides a natural oil on the skin to protect it -- babies don't play in the mud or do other activities that require soap to remove dirt and grime. Cleaning "the creases" -- under the neck, the armpits, and the diaper area -- is all that is required, and plain water can do that well. Sometimes "cradle cap" on the scalp can require some extra attention, but the soap/shampoo does not need to get on the rest of the baby's body. If you must use an emollient on the skin, a cream, oil, or ointment works better than "lotion" -- which has alcohol in it and is drying. Coconut oil or shea butter are good natural oils that can help keep your baby's skin healthy. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How can I help my baby with colic at night?
Colic is poorly understood and has no real treatments other than time. Many believe it includes abdominal complaints, and seems more common in formula fed babies. You can try herbal teas, such as ginger, peppermint and fennel. Abdominal massage, with those herbs as essential oils, may help. Many parents find that heat to the abdomen can help. In time, your baby will outgrow it. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
What age does reflux peak in babies?
Reflux is physiologic in newborns and infants until such time as the gastroesophageal sphincter becomes competent. This typically occurs somewhere around 6 months of age, which loosely correlates with the time that the infant has enough core strength to sit up in a high chair without additional support, and is beginning to take solid foods. Prior to that time, as the infant takes larger volumes of liquid (breastmilk/formula), it could appear that the reflux is "worsening;" rather, the "increase" in symptoms merely reflects the larger volume of liquid being ingested with each feed. As most reflux in infants is NOT associated with an "illness," antacid medications such as famotidine or omeprazole are not only not indicated, but may be harmful. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
Does rubbing your baby's belly help with gas?
It can. Be sure to rub in a clockwise direction starting in the lower right corner and circling above the belly button. Use gentle smooth pressure. You may use oils such as coconut oil or avocado oil -- adding a few drops of essential oil like lavender or chamomile can also help. Ginger, peppermint, and fennel are also well-known herbs to help with gas. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How do I know my baby is full when breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding babies can choose whether they are just suckling at the breast (for comfort) or if they're hungry and "transferring milk" (aka eating). You cannot overfeed a breastfeeding baby, as s/he knows whether to eat or not. Allow your baby to stay at breast for as long as s/he wants to. S/he will fall asleep when no longer interested in being there. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
What causes a child not to gain weight?
Changes in weight occur when the amount of energy, known as calories, expended doesn't match the amount of calories taken in. Think of calories like money: If you spend more than you earn, you lose money, and if you earn more than you spend, you save. A child who is very physically active -- playing outside rather than sitting and playing video games -- will need to eat more than the sedentary child to gain weight. A child who is ill may also "spend" more calories just trying to live; if, after consideration of activity level and diet, things don't seem right, see your pediatrician. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
What do I do if my baby doesn't want to drink milk?
A 2-week-old infant should only be drinking breastmilk, breastfeeding, or infant formula. Nothing else. It is extremely important that your baby get proper and adequate nutrition in these early days of life. See your pediatrician immediately if s/he is not feeding at least 15 min at breast or 2-3 oz of expressed breast milk or infant formula every 2-3 hours or more. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
Why does my baby cry every time he wakes up?
...because that's how s/he can ask for his parent to come to him. 12-month-old babies are entirely helpless in the world and need the nurture and care of their parent. This is how s/he communicates. Immediate response to his signal will promote a strong emotional bond, normal psychological development and attachment, and encourage your child to only cry when s/he needs something. Responding will NOT "spoil" your child. A 12 mo old cannot be "spoiled." Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
Can appendicitis be cured without surgery?
Yes, the most contemporary approach to pediatric appendicitis does include medical, rather than surgical, management IN SOME CASES. Shared decision-making between parent(s) and physician(s) should be the norm when discussing your child's medical treatments, regardless of the diagnosis. Be sure that all reasonable approaches are considered before deciding on a treatment regimen which, for some cases of appendicitis, could avoid surgery. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
What stage of teething hurts the most?
The tooth hurts the most just before it pops through the gum. If several teeth are erupting at the same time, of course the pain is worse. Typically, the 2 bottom teeth come through first, then the two top teeth. After that, it's somewhat variable, but it's not unusual for 2, or all 4, molars to erupt at the same time. The canines, also, frequently erupt at the same time. Ibuprofen can help with the pain, as can chewing on firm "teething toys." The older practice of offering cold or frozen teething rings is no longer recommended due to possible frostbite to the gums. A drop of the essential oil clove, added to 1 tsp of a carrier oil such as olive or coconut, rubbed on the swollen gum, can help relieve some of the pain. Be sure to test it yourself, first, to be sure it's not too strong. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
How do you treat a baby's throat infection?
The reason for the "throat infection" is crucial to deciding the proper treatment. Only "strep throat," which can ONLY be diagnosed by a positive throat swab, requires antibiotics. Strep throat is NOT diagnosed under the age of 3 years. See your Pediatrician for proper diagnosis and treatment. READ MORE
How can I soothe my 1 year olds sore throat?
Warm liquids work the best -- Ibuprofen is a good general pain reliever -- ask your pediatrician for the proper dosing instructions. Shelley C. Springer, MD, MBA, MSc, JD, FAAP READ MORE
Expert Publications
Data provided by the National Library of MedicineProfessional Memberships
- American Academy of Pediatrics - Fellow
Fellowships
- Medical University of South Carolina neonatal-perinatal medicine
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Get to know Pediatrician and Neonatologist Dr. Shelley C. Springer, who serves patients in Casper, Wyoming.
Dr. Springer is a caring and compassionate pediatrician and neonatologist who is dedicated to taking care of children from before birth to 18 years old (and sometimes later!). She started Casper Children’s Center in Casper, Wyoming in 2014, and is passionate about giving children a chance at living a happy and healthy life.
“My husband and I came to Casper to bring compassionate, contemporary, accessible pediatric care to the region’s newborns and children. As the state’s first neonatologist, I can improve access and level of care for mothers with high-risk pregnancies, keeping that care local. We have broadened the scope of care not only for newborns, but for children of all ages” expressed the doctor.
Graduating with her medical degree from the Medical College of Ohio in 1994, Dr. Springer completed her residency in pediatrics and her fellowship in neonatal-perinatal medicine at the Medical University of South Carolina. She completed her Master’s degree in Biometry and Epidemiology at the Medical University of South Carolina and her Doctor of Law degree at Newport University in 2012. She is now completing her Doctor of Naturopathy degree and follows an integrative medicine paradigm in her practice..
With a passion for her profession, she is board-certified in pediatrics and neonatal-perinatal medicine by the American Board of Pediatrics (ABP). The mission of the ABP is to advance child health by certifying pediatricians who meet standards of excellence and are committed to continuous learning and improvement.
A Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (FAAP), Dr. Springer works closely with them to develop Clinical Practice Guidelines and promote evidence-based medicine in pediatrics. She is a consulting epidemiologist for the AAP and founder of It’s For the Children Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting St. Christopher’s Home for Neglected and Abused Children in St. Kitts, West Indies.
Holding medical licenses in 25+ states, she has worked in every hospital setting – from solo-practice country hospitals to major Level IV NICUs at cutting-edge academic institutions — until forming Casper Children’s Center in 2014. She also remains affiliated with Wyoming Medical Center in Casper and Memorial Hospital of Converse County, in Douglas, WY..
Pediatrics is the branch of medicine that involves the medical care of infants, children, and adolescents. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends people be under pediatric care up to the age of 22. Pediatricians provide medical care to people ranging in age from newborns to young adults. They are trained to examine, diagnose, and treat children with a wide variety of injuries and illnesses through all of their developmental stages, as they grow and mature.
Neonatology is a subspecialty of pediatrics that consists of the medical care of newborn infants, especially the ill, or premature newborn. It is a hospital-based specialty and is practiced in neonatal intensive care units. Neonatologists generally diagnose and treat newborns with conditions such as breathing disorders, infections, and birth defects, as well as coordinating care and medically managing newborns born prematurely, critically ill, or in need of surgery.
On a more personal note, Dr. Springer has three children, all delivered while she was a medical student. She has experienced first-hand the challenges of working mothers. She knows the importance of being able to reach your pediatrician when your child is ill and the struggles when family and career obligations collide. She is committed to embracing new knowledge and technology when it makes lives better while holding onto traditional values. A believer in the power of Mother Nature, she does not hesitate to intervene when necessary.
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