If your child suffers from ear infections, Chiropractic care can help
Otitis media is a very common condition affecting infants and young children. It occurs in the area between the tympanic membrane and the inner ear, which includes a duct known as the Eustachian tube. Children below the age of 7 are more prone to otitis because the Eustachian tube is much shorter and at a more horizontal angle than in the adult ear. It is also more prone in children because they have not developed the same resistance to viruses and bacteria as adults.
In this case study, a 9 month old child is presented to chiropractic care with an acute bilateral ear infection that persisted for 7 days. A week prior to consultation, the patient elicited symptoms of decreased cervical range of motion, a runny nose and fussiness. The patients’ medical history revealed that the patient has had 6 diagnosed ear infections, both unilateral and bilateral within the past 3 months.
Chiropractic examination revealed bilateral ear infections and right later flexion of the cervical spine. Passive right lateral flexion and right rotation of cervical spine was decreased. Intersegmental motion of cervical spine was decreased. A low-force sustained contact technique was used during the visits.
On the second visit, the muscle spasms were noted as moderate. On the third visit, muscle spasms were noted as mild. The patient’s fussiness was also significantly reduced and her runny nose was resolved. By the fourth visit, the patient has full cervical range of motion, no fussiness and increased intersegmental motion. Muscle spasms were also fully resolved.
The success of this case study shows chiropractic care as a viable option for treating young patients suffering from otitis media.
Apfelblat, A. (2010). Resolution of otitis media with chiropractic management. Journal Of Pediatric, Maternal, & Family Health – Chiropractic4, 4(2)
