Chiropractic Benefits for Ear Infections

Ear infections are one of the most common reasons parents take their children to the pediatrician. By the age of three, more than two-thirds of children have experienced at least one episode of otitis media or middle ear infection (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2013). While antibiotics and surgical interventions such as ear tubes have traditionally been the go-to treatments, research shows that chiropractic care offers a safe and effective alternative for reducing recurrent ear infections.

The Problem with Traditional Treatments

Otitis media (OM) can be caused by both bacteria and viruses. While antibiotics may help in cases of bacterial infection, they are ineffective against viral infections. Furthermore, overuse of antibiotics has been linked to antibiotic resistance, allergic reactions, and disruptions to healthy gut flora (CDC, 2023).

Ear tube surgery is often recommended for children with recurring ear infections. However, studies show that the tubes frequently fall out, often within months. In some cases, children may need repeat procedures, which require general anesthesia. Long-term risks include hearing problems later in life (NIH, 2020).

Chiropractic Care as an Alternative

In the October 1998 issue of Ladies’ Home Journal, the article “Chiropractic Adjustments for Chronic Ear Infections” highlighted promising results: six months after receiving chiropractic adjustments, 80% of children in the study had not experienced a recurrence of ear infections.

The mechanism behind this approach involves correcting spinal misalignments (called subluxations), which may interfere with fluid drainage from the middle ear. By improving alignment and nervous system function, chiropractic care may reduce the likelihood of fluid buildup and infection recurrence.

Supporting Research

• Pilot Study of 401 Children with Otitis Media
  Fallon and Edelman’s 1998 study in Alternative Therapies found a strong correlation between chiropractic adjustments and the resolution of otitis media, suggesting a meaningful role for chiropractic care in pediatric cases.
• Osteopathic Manipulative Therapy and Ear Infections
  A 2003 study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine examined 57 children aged 6 months to 6 years with recurrent ear infections. Children receiving osteopathic manipulative treatment in addition to routine pediatric care had fewer infections, fewer surgeries, and longer infection-free periods than those receiving only standard care. Importantly, no adverse effects were reported (Mills et al., 2003).

Why Consider Chiropractic Care for Your Child?

• Drug-free approach that avoids the side effects of antibiotics
• Non-invasive treatment compared to ear tube surgery
• Potential long-term relief instead of temporary fixes
• Safe for children when provided by a licensed and experienced chiropractor

If your child is struggling with repeated ear infections, chiropractic care can provide a natural, holistic solution that addresses the underlying issue instead of just the symptoms.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

The Ladies’ Home Journal concluded its article with this advice: “If your child is between ear infections and his doctor suggests ear-tube surgery, ask if you can try chiropractic treatment first.” We agree—but why wait until your child is between infections? Early intervention can support your child’s health and may help prevent painful recurrences.

At Elevate Chiropractic, we specialize in gentle, safe chiropractic adjustments for children. If your family is looking for a natural approach to ear infections and overall wellness, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team today.

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Sources:

• Fallon J, Edelman C. Chiropractic Care of 401 Children with Otitis Media: A Pilot Study. Alternative Therapies. 1998.
• Mills MV, Henley CE, Barnes LLB, et al. The Use of Osteopathic Manipulative Treatment as Adjuvant Therapy in Children with Recurrent Acute Otitis Media. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2003;157(9):861–866.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Antibiotic Use and Resistance. 2023.
• American Academy of Pediatrics. Diagnosis and Management of Acute Otitis Media. 2013.
• National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD). Ear Infections in Children. 2020.

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