Ear Infections -- a common expression

Ear infections are a pain for everyone involved. No one wants to see their child crying and tugging on an achey red ear. Ear infections have become a right of passage of sorts, right up there on the list where chickenpox once resided. Everyone knows little ones will have an ear infection or two. For some it’s a repetitive nightmare that seems to continuously rear its ugly head until the parents and pediatricians resort to tubes.

What if I told you there may be another way? What if I told you that you could potentially prevent ear infections and boost your child’s overall immune system with a simple trip the the chiropractor?

I know, you may be thinking, “Chiropractic? Ear infections? What does that have to do with my kid’s back?” First we have to clarify one thing — what is the purpose of chiropractic? The goal of chiropractic care is to check and clear the spine of interference. This in turn allows the brain and nervous system to communicate with and regulate the body more effectively. A clear nervous system enhances the body’s ability to self-heal and self-regulate. It enhances the body’s ability to function in a way that is innately right.

So, what does that have to do with ear infections? Remember, the body does nothing on accident. Every expression is your body's way of communicating. We just have to listen closely to what the message is. (Have no idea what I'm talking about? Check out the blog Symptoms vs EXPRESSION) What is the actual cause of those ear infections and what can we do to prevent them? Adjustments help ear infections in two main ways. Regular chiropractic adjustments decrease likelihood of restrictions in the neck muscles that help flush out fluid in the ears. Less fluid build up means a lower chance of developing an infection. The second way is the adjustment boosts your child’s immune system. Therefore, they are more likely to be able to fend off any bacteria before it becomes a full blown infection.

If you are considering taking your infant or child to a chiropractor, I always recommend finding a doctor

who has extra training in taking care of children. All chiropractors have some training in adjusting kids, but some take extensive courses to obtain extra certifications and knowledge specific to taking care of kiddos. Ask your pediatrician if they have a chiropractor in mind. Chiropractors and medical doctors typically have much better relationships these days than in the past. The many misunderstanding have been resolved and the two often work together. If your pediatrician does not have a recommendation check the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association registry here. Enter your zip code and you can find all ICPA affiliated doctors in your area.

Here's to healthier kiddos and fewer unnecessary ear infections!