Chiropractic Relief for Colic Children

Colic affects approximately one third of all newborn babies. For the baby who has colic and the parents that care for them, it can be a very exhausting and traumatic time. The good news is that Chiropractic can help! Infantile colic refers to uncontrollable, persistent crying combined with abdominal pain that appears to have no apparent cause. Frequently accompanied by a high-pitched cry, the infant will draw up his/her knees and stiffen their lower back and neck into an arched position. In almost all the cases the infant is totally healthy and thriving. The symptoms of colic usually begin during the first month and can continue up until 3-4 months of age.

Although it is unknown what the exact cause of colic is, the symptoms are often
attributed to gas, constipation, lactose/dairy intolerance and other food allergies such as wheat gluten. Colic has also been shown to be affected by poor or abnormal spinal function. The nerves that control gastrointestinal function may be irritated at the spinal level by vertebral joints that are not moving correctly. These spinal abnormalities or
misalignments are called “subluxations”. These subluxations may be caused by birth trauma and physical stress during the birth process, or even by in utero constraint during the pregnancy. When the nerves become irritated by the subluxations, their function is affected and decreased. Researchers believe that this nerve irritation is contributing to infantile colic.

The great news is that chiropractors treat spinal misalignments and help to remove the nerve interference and irritation. For this reason, chiropractic care has shown to have a positive effect on the symptoms of colic. The chiropractor will locate the areas of subluxation and using a very specific technique called an adjustment, will help to improve the motion at the affected joint. The infants respond very quickly often are relieved of the crying while still in the office. The chiropractic adjustments are very safe and gentle

To put it in perspective and set your mind at ease, the amount of pressure involved is about the same amount of pressure you would apply to your eyeball with your eye closed. In some situations massage of the spine and abdomen is involved.
Nutritional advice and massage techniques are usually included for the parents to do at home. It is a team approach!

A Danish University study found that chiropractic care was a very safe and effective treatment for infantile colic. In as few as 3-4 chiropractic adjustments over a 2 weeks period, most colic symptoms were reduced by 66%.

If you are one of the many sleep deprived and distressed parents trying to soothe a colicky baby, think about chiropractic care! Include chiropractic care in your overall wellness plan for your baby. It will be one of the best decisions you ever
make for your family

- Dr. Andrew Erjavec

If you are interested in knowing more about how a chiropractor can help your colic child please contact Benefit Chiropractic & Wellness Clinic at 604-534-7451.