New Research on Reflux in Infants

Recent research reported in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic on an infant with gastroesophageal reflux, and several other related 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.

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“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 and sleep disturbances related to gastroesophageal reflux disorder that resolved under chiropractic care because of the nature of the nervous system and its relationship to the spine and internal organs.” 

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-month-old infant reported on in this study was suffering from acid reflux and difficulty sleeping.  She could not sleep through the night due to gas and constipation.  She was diagnosed by a medical doctor with gastroesophageal reflux disorder and prescribed drugs but they did not help her.  

The chiropractor examined the girl and found structural shifts in her neck, mid back, and lower back.  Decrease in range of motion, tight muscles were also noted.  These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct. 

Following chiropractic care she experienced complete resolution of her reflux, she began sleeping through the night, became more reactive and pleasant.  

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