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Chiropractic care for chronic ear infection in kids in Murfreesboro.

Chiropractic Care for Ear Infections

Ear infections have an uncanny way of showing up when you least expect them, causing distressing and sometimes severe symptoms for individuals of all ages. These infections can be particularly distressing due to their sudden onset and the array of symptoms they bring.

However, there’s hope for relief through chiropractic care, which has a history of successfully addressing non-spinal issues with non-invasive and holistic techniques.

Let’s explore the underlying causes of ear infections and how chiropractors for ear infection can help relieve these symptoms.

What Are Ear Infections?

An ear infection occurs when the ear becomes swollen and fills with fluid, causing pain. This swelling and fluid build-up typically take place inside the ear, right behind the eardrum. It’s a common issue, especially among children. In the medical world, it’s known as OM, or Otitis Media.

Otitis Media is quite prevalent in young children, including toddlers and infants. In fact, it’s the top reason why parents seek the help of specialists for ear infections in their children. As a concerned parent, it’s important to educate yourself about this condition. Being well-informed allows you to take the right steps to assist your loved ones.

Chronic And Acute Ear Infections

There are two main types of ear infections: chronic and acute. Acute ear infections typically cause short-lived pain, stemming from inflammation and fluid buildup in the middle ear. In most cases, these infections resolve on their own without treatment.

On the other hand, chronic ear infections in infants, toddlers, and children tend to persist and frequently recur. This type of infection demands prompt treatment, as neglecting it could result in lasting damage to the inner or middle ear.

Why Kids Are Prone to Ear Infections More Than Adults

Ear infections can be caused by bacteria or viruses. Bacterial infections often occur when inflammation obstructs the Eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the throat. Notably, children have smaller and less developed Eustachian tubes compared to adults.

In kids, these tubes are relatively flat and less effective at draining fluid from the ears. This can lead to difficulties in fluid drainage. Additionally, when mucus causes swelling, it can block these tubes, preventing proper fluid drainage and potentially leading to more severe issues.


Additionally, it’s worth noting that children have naturally weaker immune systems compared to adults. This means that children may have a harder time fighting off ear infections compared to adults. Their developing immune systems make them more susceptible to infections, which is another reason why ear infections are more common among kids.

Signs of Ear Infection in Children

If your child has any of the following signs, it’s advisable to consult a specialist. Here are the symptoms to look out for:

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Frequent fussiness and crying
  • Tugging or pulling at the affected ear(s)
  • General loss of balance
  • Difficulty hearing low-decibel sounds
  • Draining of pus-like fluid from the ear(s)
  • Occurrence of fever, especially in newborns and younger children
  • Mild ear pain
  • Persistent feeling of pressure in the ear

Risk Factors for Ear Infections

There are a handful of factors that raise the chances of getting an ear infection.Moving to a region with a drastically different climate can be one of these influential variables. Even traveling from a high-altitude location to a lower one can elevate the risk of ear infections.

Another risk factor is a history of ear infections or recent illnesses in a child. This medical history can heighten the likelihood of developing an ear infection.

Furthermore, exposure to tobacco smoke is a well-recognized risk factor. Inhaling secondhand smoke can contribute to the vulnerability of ear infections.

On top of that, the use of pacifiers, especially over prolonged periods, is associated with an increased risk of developing ear infections. It’s important to be aware of these factors to better protect against ear infections and promote ear health.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Ear Infections

When it comes to addressing ear infections, the initial step is often doing nothing. This is because, in many cases, ear infections resolve on their own over time. However, there are instances where a child’s doctor may suggest interventions, such as antibiotics, even though they come with potential side effects. Hence, these medications should be used judiciously when necessary.

Interestingly, some medical practitioners choose to refer patients with ear infections to chiropractors. In these chiropractic sessions, a customized plan is developed to address any potential misalignments or obstructions within the spine and joints.

This process serves to alleviate inflammation and pressure, facilitating the natural drainage of fluid within the ear canal and the restoration of normal functions. By enhancing joint mobility and optimizing nervous system function and spinal health, the body becomes better equipped to manage the discomfort associated with ear infections. This collaborative approach aims to promote overall well-being and comfort for the patient.

One of the symptoms of an ear infection in children to keep in mind is a general loss of balance. A chiropractor, in these cases, employs various techniques to restore the patient’s body to perfect balance. This includes the use of methods like the chiropractic ear pull. This approach, along with other techniques, is utilized by chiropractors to address the issue, and it has shown effectiveness.

About The Author
photo of Dr Oscar Noriega DC
Author
Dr. Oscar Noriega, DC, is a trusted chiropractor who has been practicing for over ten years at Revolution Chiropractic Murfreesboro. He holds a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Northwestern Health Sciences University. Dr. Noriega is also a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association and the Tennessee Chiropractic Association. He resides in Murfreesboro with his wife and two children.