Ear infections are the most common reason for visits to the Pediatrician's office. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, about 62% of kids will have their first ear infection by age 1, 80% by age 3, and almost 100% by age 5. The most common treatment for ear infections are antibiotics and although antibiotic use has come under attack recently due to over prescribing, it is still the main stream first course of action. However, out of the 585,000 adverse pediatric drug reactions per year, the most common culprit is antimicrobial drugs at 27.5%. That equates to over 160,000 children per year that receive medical treatment from complications with antibiotics. These complications include hives, wheezing, difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling in the mouth and throat, headaches and vomiting.
There is another option. A recent study of 332 children showed chiropractic care to be the most effective treatment for chronic ear infections. This is because there is a direct link between the nerves in the neck, the muscles of the eustachian tube, and the middle ear. The middle ear drains through the eustachian tube and is controlled by a nerve. When not functioning properly the muscles spasm and constrict the tube preventing the middle ear from draining. The chiropractic adjustment of the neck realigns the spine, takes pressure of the nerve, and allows the middle ear to drain. When the ear is able to drain freely, bacteria does not grow and child remains healthy.
Countryside Chiropractic is committed to helping children live their healthiest life possible as they grow and develop. If your child/children or grandchildren suffer from ear infections, please bring them in for a complimentary exam.