Ear infections are a common issue in children. They can be the cause of discomfort, sleepless nights, frequent visits to the doctor, and in some cases, even surgery. 

Otitis media, or middle ear infection, is a condition where fluid builds up behind the eardrum, causing pain and inflammation. It’s particularly common in children because their Eustachian tubes — the passageways that drain fluid from the ears — are shorter and more horizontal than in adults, making drainage less effective and leading to more frequent infections.

Recurring ear infections not only cause discomfort but can also affect hearing and speech development. For many parents, preventing these infections is a top priority. While antibiotics are often prescribed to treat infections, many parents would prefer to use a more natural and holistic method to prevent recurring issues. 

Before resorting to prescriptions or surgical procedures where tubes are inserted into the ears, consider a visit to a chiropractor such as Dr. Gena Chiropractic, the premiere pediatric and family chiropractic clinic serving the Plantation and the greater Fort Lauderdale community in Broward County. Chiropractic adjustments reduce subluxations (any kind of interference with the nervous system), improve balance and decrease torticollis or head tilts in babies and children that could lead to improper fluid drainage from the eustachian tubes. As you can see, a chiropractic adjustment can be a more successful approach to reducing the risk for ear infections in your little ones.

Medical intervention may not always be the best course of action for this particular children’s health concern. In many cases, ear infections tend to go away on their own. Additionally, if the ear infection is viral and not bacterial; antibiotics are not going to help. Why put your children on medication if it’s not entirely necessary? Antibiotics are merely a Band-Aid; they may help symptoms, but they do not help you get to the bottom of the issue. 

Chiropractic care offers a natural alternative to medication. By addressing the root cause of ear infections rather than just treating symptoms, chiropractic adjustments can be a safe, gentle, and effective preventive measure for children. This is a long-term solution without any need for surgery or multiple prescriptions. 

Let’s look a little further into just how beneficial chiropractic adjustments can be for children who experience frequent ear infections:

• Improved Drainage of the Eustachian Tubes: Misalignments in the upper cervical spine (the neck) can cause muscle tension and pressure around the Eustachian tubes, restricting drainage. Chiropractic adjustments to the neck can relieve this tension, helping the tubes drain fluid more effectively and reducing the chance of infection.

• Boosted Immune Function. The nervous system controls immune responses, and subluxations can disrupt these signals. Chiropractic adjustments restore proper alignment, allowing the nervous system to function optimally. With a better-functioning immune system, the body is better equipped to fight off infections before they start.

• Decreased Inflammation. Chronic ear infections often lead to inflammation in the ear and surrounding areas. Chiropractic adjustments can help reduce inflammation by improving circulation and reducing nerve irritation. This can lower the likelihood of recurring infections.

The body can only heal when it is in a parasympathetic state. When it’s stuck in a “fight or flight” sympathetic state, the body focuses more on surviving than healing. When the body is trying to survive, it’s not thinking about fighting off bacteria or healing. Chiropractic adjustments help bring the body into that parasympathetic state, so that the healing process can begin.

Chiropractic care can be a great addition to your child’s health routine, particularly if they suffer from recurring ear infections. Along with regular chiropractic adjustments, ensuring your child maintains a healthy diet, stays hydrated, and gets plenty of sleep can help keep their immune system strong.

Ear infections can be frustrating for both children and parents, but with the help of chiropractic care, you may be able to reduce the frequency and severity of these infections. By promoting better drainage, supporting immune function, and relieving nerve pressure, chiropractic adjustments offer a holistic way to keep your child healthier and happier.

If you’re looking for a natural way to support your child’s health and reduce the risk of ear infections, contact our office at 954-417-5815 to schedule an appointment. Remember, your health is in your hands; our hands are here to help.