New Research on Failure to Thrive in an Infant

Recent research reported in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic on an infant reveals that chiropractic may play an important role in managing failure to thrive in this population. The literature included in the study supports the role of chiropractic in infants suffering from the related health challenges 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 may 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 failure to thrive and several other symptoms 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 13-day-old infant reported on in the study had failure to thrive.  His parents were concerned as he lost 27 ounces since his birth.  He required constant care which exhausted his parents.  Most of the time he was inconsolable.  Breastfeeding was difficult as he was lethargic and had a weak cry.  Medical tests did not provide any additional insight into his rapid weight loss.  Hospitalization for tube feeding was recommended as a next step if he continued to lose weight. 

The chiropractor examined him and found structural shifts in his neck, midback, low back, and sacrum.  He had very tight muscles, decreased range of motion, decreased reflexes, and posture abnormalities.  These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct. 

Following chiropractic adjustments, he began gaining weight and his breastfeeding difficulties resolved. Due to his improvements, he was able to avoid hospitalization for tube feeding. 

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