Ear infections are a common condition in children.
Middle ear infection, or otitis media, is common in children; according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, three in four children have experienced at least one ear infection by age 3. It can be caused by viral, bacterial or fungal infections. Whether or not treatment is necessary may depend on the severity of the infection. In recent years, chiropractic treatment of ear infections has gained popularity, although this approach remains controversial.
Chiropractic Methods
Chiropractic therapies aim to treat disorders of the musculoskeletal system, the idea being that these disorders can impact other aspects of the patient's health. Some chiropractors try to reduce the frequency of ear infections in small children by adjusting the cervical spine (the part of the spine in the neck), or the back of the head on the theory that this will permit the middle ear to drain and thereby enable the patient's body to more efficiently heal itself.
Criticism
Many clinical practitioners and scientists are skeptical of the claim that chiropractic therapy can help children with ear infections. A review published in the journal "Chiropractic and Osteopathy" in 2010 concluded that "there really is no credible solid evidence upon which to make recommendations regarding the use of chiropractic care" in treating ear infections. Some opponents are even more critical; an article in the "New Zealand Medical Journal" in April, 2010 contended that claims by chiropractors about treatment for ear infections were evidence of an "ethical and public health issue."
Other Treatments
Many children with ear infections recover on their own without treatment. Consequently, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a "wait-and-see" approach for the first 72 hours of an ear infection in healthy children who are over 6 months of age. In cases where a bacterial infection is the culprit, doctors may prescribe antibiotics, although it's not universally agreed that antibiotics are effective. In some severe cases, surgery to insert drainage tubes may be necessary. Sometimes cases of recurring infections can be difficult to treat with current methods.
Other Arguments
Proponents of chiropractic therapy for these conditions argue that since antibiotics are often ineffectual (especially if the condition originates with a viral infection), chiropractic treatment may offer greater benefit if effective. Some pediatricians are open to this idea, although others are skeptical.
Considerations
To date, scientific evidence on chiropractic therapy for ear infections is very limited. There have been no large-scale studies that conclusively demonstrate benefits for this type of treatment, although it also seems unlikely that chiropractic treatment would cause complications. If you have any questions about your child's health, the best person to consult is your child's pediatrician.
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