Bottom Line:

Chronic ear infections, or otitis media, can be frustrating for both a child and their parents. While the child is dealing with the painful inflammation and fluid build-up in the middle ear, many parents find it challenging to decide the best treatment and course of action. 

Why it Matters:

Ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their kids to the doctor. Nearly five out of six children will experience at least one ear infection by their 3rd birthday. There are a few reasons kids tend to get ear infections. One is because the small tubes that are designed to drain the fluid in the ear are smaller and less angled than in adults. Also, a child’s immune system isn’t fully developed, so it’s more challenging to fight infections.

·       Congestion in the Eustachian tube between the middle ear and throat can lead to a buildup of fluid and pressure which can cause an ear infection. 

·       Antibiotics should only be prescribed when the ear infection has a bacterial cause. 

·       Researchers have found a correlation between Chiropractic adjustments and the resolution of ear infections in children.

Next Steps:

The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages jumping into prescriptions anti-antibiotics right now. By exploring natural remedies and treatments, many children can overcome ear infections without the side-effects associated with repetitive antibiotic use.  Be sure to visit our Facebook Page where we have devoted this week to providing information on how you can find natural relief from ear infections!

Science Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Ear Infections in Children. 2017. The Role of the Chiropractic Adjustment in the Care and Treatment of 332 Children with Otitis Media. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 1997.

Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings and Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 10 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).