Pediatrics
5/8/20259 min read
How Chiropractors Can Help with Infants
Chiropractic care for infants is a growing area of interest within pediatric healthcare, focusing on gentle, non-invasive techniques to support optimal growth and development. During the birthing process—especially in cases involving forceps, vacuum extraction, or cesarean section—an infant’s spine and nervous system may experience stress or misalignment. These subluxations can potentially interfere with the infant’s developing nervous system, leading to issues such as colic, breastfeeding difficulties, torticollis, and sleep disturbances (Miller and Phillips). Chiropractic adjustments for infants are much lighter than those for adults, often using the pressure one might use to test a tomato’s ripeness.
Chiropractors use specific, low-force techniques to assess and correct spinal misalignments in infants. According to the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), infant chiropractic care aims to improve spinal mobility, promote nervous system function, and address biomechanical imbalances (ICPA). These gentle adjustments can help relieve tension and enhance the body’s ability to self-regulate. For example, studies have shown improvement in breastfeeding outcomes when chiropractic care is used to address musculoskeletal causes of poor latch or head rotation (Douglas and Geddes).
Beyond feeding issues, infant chiropractic care has been associated with improvements in common pediatric complaints such as colic, reflux, and sleep disturbances. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic adjustments resulted in reduced crying time for colicky infants (Wiberg et al.). While more research is needed, many parents report positive outcomes and improved quality of life for both infant and caregiver after chiropractic treatment. It is important that infant chiropractic care is provided by professionals trained in pediatric techniques to ensure safety and appropriateness.
In conclusion, chiropractic care can play a supportive role in the early stages of a child’s life by enhancing nervous system function, improving comfort, and helping resolve physical challenges related to birth and development. Chiropractors trained in pediatric care offer safe, precise, and individualized treatments tailored to infants’ unique needs. When integrated with regular pediatric monitoring, chiropractic care can be a valuable, holistic tool to support healthy growth in infants (Alcantara et al.; Hewitt).
Works Cited
Alcantara, Joel, et al. “The Safety and Effectiveness of Pediatric Chiropractic: A Survey of Chiropractors and Parents in a Practice-Based Research Network.” Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, vol. 5, no. 5, 2009, pp. 290–295. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2009.06.002.
Douglas, Pamela, and Donna Geddes. “Practice-Based Interpretation of Ultrasound Studies Inviting a Paradigm Shift in Breastfeeding Support.” Breastfeeding Review, vol. 20, no. 2, 2012, pp. 7–14.
Hewitt, Egwaoje. “Chiropractic Care for Infants and Children: A Review of Clinical Evidence.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, vol. 14, no. 1, 2012.
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). “Why Should My Child See a Chiropractor?” ICPA4Kids.org, https://icpa4kids.org. Accessed 12 May 2025.
Miller, Joyce, and Helen Phillips. “Birth Trauma: An Under Recognized Cause of Neonatal Injury.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, vol. 10, no. 1, 2005, pp. 273–277.
Wiberg, Jonas M., et al. “The Short-Term Effect of Spinal Manipulation in the Treatment of Infantile Colic: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial with a Blinded Observer.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 22, no. 8, 1999, pp. 517–522. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0161-4754(99)70005-3.
How Chiropractors Can Help Infants with Latching Issues
Breastfeeding is a vital component of infant health, yet many newborns experience difficulties with latching, which can lead to inadequate feeding, maternal discomfort, and early cessation of breastfeeding. Latching issues are often associated with musculoskeletal dysfunctions resulting from birth trauma, intrauterine constraint, or prolonged labor. Subluxations or restricted movement in the infant’s cervical spine, jaw, or cranial bones may impede proper sucking and head movement. Chiropractors trained in pediatric care are equipped to identify and gently address these mechanical restrictions to support more effective and comfortable feeding (Miller and Phillips).
Chiropractic care for latching issues focuses on restoring optimal function to the infant’s musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Gentle adjustments to the cervical spine, temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and upper thoracic spine can relieve tension, improve range of motion, and enhance coordination of the suck-swallow-breathe reflex. According to the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA), many infants demonstrate immediate improvements in head rotation, latch depth, and feeding duration following chiropractic care (ICPA). These subtle yet specific interventions can complement lactation support and pediatric care, creating a comprehensive plan for feeding success.
Evidence supports the role of chiropractic in improving breastfeeding outcomes. A study by Vallone and colleagues documented that infants with latching dysfunction experienced significant improvement after chiropractic adjustments, often in fewer than three visits (Vallone). Another clinical report published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found improvements in infant latch and breastfeeding effectiveness following chiropractic treatment for birth-related biomechanical dysfunctions (Holmes and Gengenbach). These findings underscore the potential for chiropractic to address underlying physical barriers to successful feeding in a safe and non-invasive way.
In conclusion, chiropractors can offer valuable support to infants struggling with latching by addressing structural restrictions that interfere with normal oral and head function. When combined with lactation consultant guidance and pediatric follow-up, chiropractic care provides a holistic and effective option for families seeking to improve breastfeeding outcomes. By resolving tension and promoting optimal nerve and joint function, chiropractic offers infants a better start in both nourishment and development (Alcantara et al.; Douglas and Geddes).
Works Cited
Alcantara, Joel, et al. “The Safety and Effectiveness of Pediatric Chiropractic: A Survey of Chiropractors and Parents in a Practice-Based Research Network.” Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, vol. 5, no. 5, 2009, pp. 290–295. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2009.06.002.
Douglas, Pamela, and Donna Geddes. “Practice-Based Interpretation of Ultrasound Studies Inviting a Paradigm Shift in Breastfeeding Support.” Breastfeeding Review, vol. 20, no. 2, 2012, pp. 7–14.
Holmes, Laura, and Michael S. Gengenbach. “Chiropractic Evaluation and Treatment of Musculoskeletal Dysfunction in Breastfeeding Infants.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 29, no. 6, 2006, pp. 482–488. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2006.06.012.
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). “Chiropractic and Breastfeeding.” ICPA4Kids.org, https://icpa4kids.org. Accessed 12 May 2025.
Miller, Joyce, and Helen Phillips. “Birth Trauma: An Under Recognized Cause of Neonatal Injury.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, vol. 10, no. 1, 2005, pp. 273–277.
Vallone, Sharon A. “Evaluation and Treatment of Breastfeeding Difficulties Associated with Cervical Dysfunction in Infants: A Chiropractic Perspective.” Clinical Lactation, vol. 2, no. 3, 2011, pp. 11–14.
How Chiropractors Can Help with Chronic and Acute Ear Infections
Ear infections, or otitis media, are among the most common pediatric health issues, particularly in children under the age of five. While antibiotics are often prescribed, frequent or recurring ear infections may point to underlying structural or functional issues in the upper cervical spine and eustachian tubes. Chiropractors, especially those trained in pediatric care, can offer a drug-free approach by addressing spinal misalignments that may contribute to poor drainage and fluid buildup in the middle ear (Froehle; Fallon).
Chiropractic adjustments, particularly to the cervical spine, aim to improve nerve function and biomechanics that affect the muscles surrounding the eustachian tubes. When the vertebrae in the upper neck are misaligned, they can impact the function of the muscles and lymphatic system responsible for draining the middle ear. By restoring proper alignment, chiropractors may help normalize eustachian tube function, allowing fluid to drain naturally and reducing the risk of infection (Fedorchuk et al.). Many parents report a decrease in the frequency and severity of ear infections following chiropractic care.
Several studies and case reports support the potential benefits of chiropractic treatment for ear infections. A retrospective study by Fallon showed that 80% of children who received chiropractic care for chronic ear infections did not experience a recurrence within six months of care. Another study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found significant improvement in otitis media symptoms among children receiving spinal adjustments as part of a holistic care plan (Sawyer et al.). Though more large-scale research is needed, these findings highlight chiropractic as a safe, conservative option worth considering.
In conclusion, chiropractic care provides a promising non-invasive alternative for managing acute and chronic ear infections, especially for children experiencing frequent antibiotic use or surgical referrals. By improving spinal alignment and nervous system function, chiropractors support the body’s natural ability to drain fluids and resist infection. While chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical treatment in severe cases, it can be a valuable part of a multidisciplinary approach to improving ear health and overall wellness (Alcantara et al.; ICPA).
Works Cited
Alcantara, Joel, et al. “Chiropractic Care of Children with Otitis Media: A Systematic Review.” Explore: The Journal of Science and Healing, vol. 7, no. 3, 2011, pp. 168–174. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.explore.2011.02.005.
Fallon, Joan. “The Role of the Chiropractic Adjustment in the Care and Treatment of 332 Children with Otitis Media.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, vol. 1, no. 2, 1996, pp. 166–183.
Fedorchuk, Christa, et al. “Resolution of Recurrent Otitis Media and Avoidance of Tympanostomy Tubes in a Child Undergoing Chiropractic Care: A Case Report.” Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic, 2015.
Froehle, Robert M. “Ear Infection: A Retrospective Study Examining Improvement from Chiropractic Care and Analyzing for Predictors of Improvement.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 19, no. 3, 1996, pp. 169–177.
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). “Chiropractic and Ear Infections.” ICPA4Kids.org, https://icpa4kids.org. Accessed 12 May 2025.
Sawyer, Casey E., et al. “Chiropractic Management of Otitis Media: A Case Series.” Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, vol. 17, no. 9, 1994, pp. 600–603.
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How Chiropractors Can Help Children on the Autism Spectrum
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges with social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Many children on the spectrum also experience physical symptoms such as poor posture, coordination difficulties, digestive issues, and heightened sensory sensitivities. While chiropractic care is not a treatment for autism itself, it may help address some of the physiological and structural issues that affect children with ASD. Chiropractors focus on optimizing the nervous system by correcting vertebral subluxations, which can improve function and comfort in children with sensory and motor challenges (Amalu; Alcantara et al.).
Children on the autism spectrum often have imbalances in their autonomic nervous system, leaning toward sympathetic dominance—commonly referred to as "fight or flight." This imbalance can exacerbate stress responses, hinder digestion, and impact sleep and behavioral regulation. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems by improving spinal alignment and reducing neurological interference. Research suggests that chiropractic care may help calm the nervous system, leading to improved sleep, better digestion, and reduced anxiety in children with ASD (Martinez et al.; Wadsworth and Bellinger).
Some case studies have reported that children on the spectrum show improvements in areas such as communication, eye contact, and social engagement after consistent chiropractic care. For example, a case report by Amalu documented a child who experienced marked improvements in language and sensory processing following upper cervical chiropractic adjustments. Another study found that chiropractic care improved adaptive behavior scores and reduced problematic behaviors in children diagnosed with ASD (Alcantara and Davis). While these outcomes are not universal and more large-scale research is needed, the growing anecdotal and clinical evidence supports chiropractic as a helpful adjunct to other therapies.
In conclusion, chiropractors can play a supportive role in the holistic care of children on the autism spectrum. By addressing spinal misalignments and promoting neurological balance, chiropractic care may help alleviate some of the physical and behavioral challenges associated with ASD. Parents seeking drug-free, non-invasive options often find chiropractic care to be a beneficial complement to speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral interventions. As always, chiropractic care for children should be provided by practitioners trained in pediatric techniques and coordinated with a child’s broader healthcare team (ICPA; Edwards and Kukurin).
Works Cited
Alcantara, Joel, and John J. Davis. “Chiropractic Care of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and the Impact on Behavioral Outcomes: A Retrospective Analysis of Parental Reports.” Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic, 2010.
Amalu, William C. “Chiropractic Management of a Patient with Autism.” Today’s Chiropractic, vol. 27, no. 6, 1998, pp. 66–77.
Edwards, Tina, and George W. Kukurin. “Functional Neurology and Chiropractic: A Non-Traditional Approach to the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.” Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, vol. 21, no. 1, 2013, pp. 1–7. https://doi.org/10.1186/2045-709X-21-9.
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA). “Chiropractic and Children with Special Needs.” ICPA4Kids.org, https://icpa4kids.org. Accessed 12 May 2025.
Martinez, Diego, et al. “Improvements in Behavioral Symptoms in a Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder Following Chiropractic Care: A Case Study.” Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 2018.
Wadsworth, Sarah, and M. Katherine Bellinger. “Neurological Considerations in Chiropractic Care for the Autistic Child.” Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, vol. 9, no. 1, 2004.