New Research on Chiropractic, Reflux & Sleep Disturbance in Infants

Recent research reported in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic on an infant suffering from gastroesophageal reflux and several other issues reveals that chiropractic may play an important role in managing these infants. The literature included supports the role of chiropractic in infants suffering from this health challenge and calls for more research in this area.

CLICK HERE to review the research

“Numerous case studies and some clinical studies are revealing that there is a relationship between abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system and the various health challenges that infants experience” stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study. 

McCoy added “In the case report presented, the infant was suffering from acid reflux, difficulty latching and breastfeeding, torticollis, and sleep disturbances that resolved under chiropractic care because of the nature of the nervous system and its relationship to the spine.” 

According to researchers the nervous system controls and coordinates all functions of the body and structural shifts in the spine can occur that obstruct the nerves and interfere with their function. By removing the structural shifts, chiropractic improves nerve supply and function. 

The 7-week-old infant in this case was suffering from acid reflux and difficulty latching and breastfeeding for nearly a month following a traumatic birth.  He also had a head tilt and an upward gaze.  He was not sleeping, spitting up food, had pain with swallowing and was underweight.  He was diagnosed with GERD and prescribed medications, which did not help him. 

The chiropractor examined him and found structural shifts in his neck, mid back, and sacrum.  Decrease in range of motion, muscle spasms, and tender points were noted in the neck and mid back.  These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxation, that chiropractors correct. 

Following chiropractic care, he experienced complete resolution of his reflux, torticollis, and gained weight.  He began holding his head up with no tilt.  His medications were discontinued, and he began sleeping normally.  

The study’s author called for additional research to investigate the clinical implications of chiropractic in this population.

Contact Information: 

Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic
http://www.chiropracticpediatricresearch.com
support@vertebralsubluxationresearch.com