New Research on Down Syndrome & Chiropractic

Recent research reported in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic on an infant with Down Syndrome, poor sleep, and difficulty latching shows that chiropractic may play an important role in helping these children.

CLICK HERE to review the study 

“Research is revealing that there is a relationship between structural abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system and brain” stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study. McCoy continued “This case adds to the body of scientific literature suggesting that chiropractic should play an important role in managing infants with Down Syndrome.” 

Research has shown not only that the brain relies on normal structural integrity and joint movement, but that complex neurological communication and pathways involved in helping humans balance and orient themselves in space are tied into spinal biomechanics and their related neurological pathways. 

“Considering the fact that every single function of the body is controlled by the nervous system it should not surprise anyone that removing obstructions to the nerves that control the muscles and joints of the spine would lead to improvement in the symptomatology associated with Down Syndrome” remarked Dr. McCoy. 

The 7-week-old infant reported on in this study had Down Syndrome, a heart disorder, poor sleep, and a difficult latch.  She often fell asleep at the breast as she did not have the strength to endure the breastfeeding process.  She was not gaining weight as expected. 

The chiropractor examined her and found structural shifts in her neck, mid back, and sacrum.  Range of motion in her neck and lower back were within normal limits without pain.  Her reflexes were normal.  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 resolution of her poor sleep and her feeding issues. She began gaining weight and also experienced an improved breathing pattern and muscle tone.  Her overall health improved and her ability to function on a daily basis improved. 

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