Chiropractic and Ear Infections: Everything You Should Know

Ear infections have a nasty habit of occurring unexpectedly at the worst moments. For a person of any age, the symptoms often associated with ear infections can be alarming and, in some cases, severe.

Chiropractic has a long and successful history of treating non-spinal problems with non-invasive, natural techniques. Recently, one such way that chiropractors have traditionally treated with conservative methods is ear infections. Below, we’ll take a look at what causes ear infections and how Harlan Chiropractic can provide relief for those suffering from ear infections.

What Is an Ear Infection?

Ear infections can be bacterial or viral, with the former occurring when swelling blocks the Eustachian tubes, responsible for connecting the middle ear to the back of the throat. Young children’s Eustachian tubes are virtually parallel to the ground, but as we age, they tilt slightly to allow fluid to flow more freely.

If the atlas bone (the very top vertebrae) is out of place, it obstructs the tubes, causing a fluid backup. If there is another form of blockage and air cannot travel through it, a vacuum pulls fluid into the ear from the throat and nose, and this fluid has nowhere to go without the free path through the Eustachian tubes.

This buildup of fluid, like a stagnant pond that harbors bacteria, will allow bacteria to thrive, resulting in an ear infection. While medicines can kill bacteria, they do not address the underlying cause of the ear infection, which is pressure and blockage of the Eustachian tubes.

As a result, a chiropractic adjustment has frequently been used to correct the underlying problem and prevent chronic and recurring ear infections.

How Chiropractic Care Can Help with Ear Infections

Chiropractic care can help you manage and relieve the pain and discomfort caused by ear infections. Routine chiropractic care offers patients with ear infections a safe, non-invasive, non-addictive alternative to prescription drugs or over-the-counter pain medications, which are routinely recommended to patients to manage the discomfort and swelling caused by ear infections.

Chiropractic adjustments are used to eliminate joint limitations or misalignments in the spine and other joints of the body to reduce inflammation and improve the function of both the affected joint and the neurological system. During a session, a chiropractor will develop a chiropractic adjustment plan that focuses on any misalignment issues or obstructions within the spine and joints.

This process aids in reducing inflammation and pressure, allowing the fluid in the ear canal to drain normally and resume normal functions. As a result, by enhancing joint mobility and boosting nervous system function and spinal health, your body can better manage the discomfort produced by ear infections.

Get Relief from Your Ear Infection Today with Harlan Chiropractic

Harlan Chiropractic is dedicated to providing our customers with natural chiropractic care designed to help them achieve long-term health. We remain committed to offering expert chiropractic care to each of our patients to help them realize their health goals using evidence-based strategies and individualized care.

If you or a loved one are experiencing chronic ear infections, contact Harlan Chiropractic today to schedule an appointment and discover how we can design a customized treatment plan that provides you with the relief you deserve.