Chiropractic And Ear Infection In Children

Many people know that ear infections (otitis media) can be very painful, especially in children. With millions new cases every year, ear infections are the most common conditions that affect children and accounts as number one reason for pediatrician visits. About half of all children will have at least one middle ear infection before they reach one year of age, and roughly seventy percent will get it by the age of three. Chronic ear infections are the second most common reason for surgery in children under two years old.

Kids are more prone to ear infections due to their ear anatomical development. Eustachian tube that connects nasopharynx to the middle ear, in children is shorter and more horizontal allowing viruses and bacteria to find their way into the middle ear easily. In addition, enlarged adenoids can block the opening of the eustachian tube and interfere with drainage as well.

Most common treatment for otitis media is antibiotics. If otitis media is a result of a viral infection, then antibiotics will not work. In case of recurrent ear infections, a surgical procedure is prescribed by a specialist. Myringotomy or Tympanostomy (known as ear tubes) are inserted into the eardrum to relieve the pressure and prevent fluid build up. Although this surgical treatment is effective, but has to be repeated in 20-30% of the cases. As any surgical procedure, it might be very stressful and painful for a child.

More and more patients are considering chiropractic to help children with chronic ear infections. Chiropractic adjustments mobilize drainage of the ear preventing from fluid and bacterial build up. In the case with otitis media, upper-cervical and occipital region manipulations are performed.

Talk to your chiropractor about your child’s ear infections. Doctors of chiropractic are licensed and trained to treat patients of all ages. In addition to manipulations, chiropractors can recommend nutritional supplements to enhance immune system of your child.