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Pediatric Chiropractic Care for Ear Infections

Millions of kids suffer with ear infections that many times become a chronic problem leading to ear tubes. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, three out of four children will be diagnosed with an ear infection by the age of three. Ear infections are the most common reason for childhood visits to the pediatrician. Although research shows that antibiotics are not the most effective treatment for ear infections, 96%-98% of physicians immediately treat ear infections with antibiotics. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a ‘watch-and-wait-approach‘ based on the evidence-based research. This research indicates that antibiotics are rarely effective and actually lead to repeated ear infections. Many parents are becoming concerned with antibiotic resistance and are looking for other solutions to help with ear infections.

Chiropractic care can be a very effective way to help kids with ear infections without using antibiotics. Chiropractic care can help the ear to drain better so that less fluid will build up in the ear canal, and make infection less likely. A study by Dr. Joan Fallon showed that after a series of adjustments, nearly 80% of kids were free of ear infections for at least the six-month period following their initial visits.

Drs. Quintin and Katie Sleigh educate parents that the purpose of chiropractic is not to treat ear infections or any specific disease. Chiropractic restores the normal function of the spine and nerve system. By restoring normal function and alignment of the spine, especially the upper part of the neck, the ear tends to drain better. In addition, using spinal adjustments to free up nerve system function, the body functions better and the child may be able to fight infection better. Drs. Quintin and Katie help many kids avoid ear infections and antibiotic treatment using very gentle and safe pediatric chiropractic adjustments. If fact, most kids love to come see the chiropractor because it makes them feel better!

In addition to chiropractic adjustments, Drs. Quintin and Katie Sleigh also recommend other natural supportive treatments to help ear infections in kids.

Garlic Oil Drops

Garlic is a natural antibacterial and antiviral agent. There are many ear drops available at health stores that are typically labeled as ‘natural ear drops.‘ Drs. Quintin and Katie Sleigh recommend that parents make sure that any drops they purchase contain garlic. They also recommend that parents use the drops daily as soon as the child starts to act sick, especially if he or she has a history of ear infections. If the child does not have a history of ear infections, Drs. Sleigh say that parents should use the drops if the child pulls on the ear or exhibits symptoms of ear pain.

Melrose Essential Oil

Many people are surprised to hear that essentials oils can be an effective ear infection treatment. It is recommended that parents purchase pure essential oils like Young Living. To use Melrose essential oil for an ear ache, put a couple drops into the palm of the hand and rub a small piece of cotton ball into the oil to soak it. Place the small piece of cotton in the ear and rub any leftover oil around the ear.

Diet Considerations

Dairy is a common sensitivity for kids especially those that suffer with ear infections. Even though your child is not allergic to milk, he or she may have a sensitivity. Drs. Quintin and Katie Sleigh recommend using alternatives like almond, rice or coconut milk. If the child is being breast fed, they recommend that the mother eliminate dairy. If the child is on formula, they recommend a dairy free formula.

As pediatric chiropractors, Drs. Quintin and Katie Sleigh discuss these natural ear infection treatments with parents in addition to their chiropractic adjustments. They find that many times it takes a multi faceted approach to get rid of ear infections. Many parents feel lost trying to research the different natural options that are available and most pediatricians aren’t educated on these options enough to make recommendations for parents. Drs. Quintin and Katie help guide parents with a care plan that involves multiple natural approaches. Please click the link for more information on Pediatric Chiropractic.

Sleigh Family Chiropractic

At Sleigh Family Chiropractic, we focus on restoring your body to health naturally. We provide family chiropractic care to treat your entire family. We have special certifications as pediatric chiropractors and prenatal chiropractors. With an evaluation we are able to make a spinal care plan that will focus on a balanced nervous system along with healthy lifestyle. As a leading chiropractic clinic we treat patients with back pain, neck pain, leg pain, and other painful conditions.

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