Infantile colic can be both frustrating and confusing for parents. Many conventional pediatricians may say, "some babies just get colic" and reassure you that "they'll grow out of it." However, there is ongoing debate about what causes colic and how it develops. In this blog post, we'll explore the science behind colic, keep it straightforward, and discuss safe, natural methods to help alleviate your baby's constant crying and discomfort.
If your baby struggles with colic and you’re searching for answers and relief from the nonstop crying and sleepless nights, this is for you! If your instincts tell you that constant crying, discomfort, arching their back, and cranking their neck for relief isn't normal, please keep reading.
The Overlooked Cause of Colic
One of the most overlooked triggers of colic is an overstressed and subluxated nervous system. At Tiffin Family Chiropractic, we often find that most colicky babies have experienced one or more of the following stressors:
High-stress or high-risk pregnancy
Birth interventions like forceps, vacuum extraction, induction, epidural, or C-section that can physically impact the nerves and muscles of the upper neck
These interventions can affect functions such as sleeping, latching, breastfeeding, swallowing, digestion, and gross motor skills like turning the head and tummy time. Such stressors can make an infant's nervous system highly sensitive and stuck in a sympathetic fight or flight mode.
Jackson’s Story of Relief
Consider the story of baby Jackson, who had severe reflux, gas pains, and trouble sleeping as an infant. Jackson's mom shared, "Being first-time parents and seeing Jackson struggle with these issues was incredibly tough! It was hard to see him so upset and uncomfortable."
Fortunately, Jackson's parents sought help from a holistic pediatrician who looked for the root cause of a child's issues instead of just treating the symptoms. Recognizing that a fast labor and delivery could be a contributing factor, the pediatrician referred Jackson to a pediatric chiropractor.
Jackson's mom reported, "Jackson started getting adjusted at 9 weeks old, and within a few weeks, we saw changes! His gas pains subsided, and he seemed more comfortable. Within a month, his colic disappeared, and we started to see his happy, playful personality."
With continued care, Jackson transformed into a "completely different baby" compared to when he first started care. His colic and stomach pains were gone, his reflux improved, and he even started sleeping through the night. Now, as a toddler, Jackson's mom says, "He's the happiest child, always smiling and laughing. We're so thankful to our pediatric chiropractor for giving us our happy boy back!"
The Impact of Sympathetic Dominance
When an infant's nervous system is stuck in a sympathetic fight or flight mode, basic functions like sleeping, eating, pooping, and moving can be difficult. Parents often sense that something isn't right with their baby's internal and external muscles, controlling digestion and movement. This is why colicky babies often struggle more after eating and constantly arch their neck and back.
Many parents of colicky babies have tried removing dairy and other common allergens from their diet. Some have even had their child's tongue or oral ties surgically revised. While these issues can affect latching and nursing, it's crucial to look deeper at the root cause. If a child's nervous system is stuck in a fight or flight mode, muscles and ligaments can remain tense even after surgical interventions.
Finding the Root Cause
While many look to the digestive system for the root cause of colic, the issue often lies deeper within the nervous system and its control and coordination of digestive motility, absorption, and elimination. When tension and subluxation build up in the neurospinal system, a colicky baby may arch their back and crane their neck, trying to relieve the tension. This is a strong indication that the root cause is neurospinal discomfort and tension, not just digestive issues.
Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care offers a gentle, non-invasive approach to addressing the neurological factors contributing to colic. Pediatric chiropractors are trained to identify and correct subluxations in the spine that interfere with proper nervous system function. By restoring balance to the nervous system, chiropractic care can help relieve colic symptoms and promote overall health in infants.
At Tiffin Family Chiropractic, our doctor uses thorough assessments and advanced Neurological INSiGHT Scans to detect subluxation and neurological dysfunction in colicky infants. This targeted approach allows us to create personalized care plans tailored to each child's needs.
Benefits of Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care for Colic
In addition to alleviating colic symptoms, chiropractic care can offer various benefits for infants and children, including:
Improved sleep quality and duration
Enhanced immune system function
Better digestion and reduced discomfort
Increased range of motion and flexibility
Support for healthy brain and nervous system development
Chiropractic care is not a"one-size-fits-all"solution, and results may vary from child to child. However, many parents report significant improvements in their babies' comfort, happiness, and overall well-being after chiropractic care.
Take Action for Your Baby’s Health
If you're ready to find real answers and drug-free solutions for your baby's colic, consider scheduling a consultation with our doctor at Tiffin Family Chiropractic. The right approach can help your little one find peace, comfort, and restful sleep. Don’t spend another exhausting night wondering if there’s hope—take action and seek the support your family deserves.
If you are not local to us, please check out the PX Docs directory to find a PX Doc near you. By addressing the root cause of colic with gentle, Neurologically-Focused Chiropractic Care, you can help your baby thrive and enjoy a happier, healthier childhood.
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