Suckling is the most natural thing for a child. This is indeed one of the first reflexes that manifests during the first minutes after birth. Yet it is the proper functioning of several structures which allow this task to be well accomplished. Here is how a visit to the chiropractor can give it a boost.
First, it is important to know that if breastfeeding is painful and causes inconvenience to the mother, it may be the baby’s side which needs to be investigated. Thus, the chiropractor will evaluate the functioning of the neck joints that allow the child to better position its extended head and also to turn to both sides easily. In addition, the jaw joint should be considered to ensure an adequate opening to promote a good latch.
Then the chiropractor, by the evaluation of the cervical muscles, back, jaw, and skull can detect tensions and spasms that interfere with proper joint function. These muscle dysfunctions can result from poor intrauterine positioning, difficult or traumatic birth, with the use of forceps or suction cups, or poor posture developed by the baby since birth.
Finally, the integrity of the baby’s neurological system will be evaluated. Not only the reflexes of sucking and swallowing must be present, but particular attention will be paid to the cranial nerve function. It is they who control the entire musculature of the face, mouth, and throat.
The proper functioning of neurological, muscular, and articular systems is important because they are all interrelated. Joint dysfunction can, for example, limit the movement of the baby’s head, which will develop a muscular compensation in order to accomplish its task. This compensation can then affect breastfeeding itself: discomfort when taking breast, air swallowing, difficulty moving the tongue freely… By dint of effort, these obstacles can be frustrating for the baby and the mom and thus precipitate the cessation of breastfeeding.
A full examination by a chiropractor helps paint a picture of the Spinal baby’s neuro-vertebral health. Suitable chiropractic care and guidance for parents can make breastfeeding more enjoyable and allow its continuation. The breastfeeding support by the entourage of the mother and by various professionals such as doulas, nurses, midwives and chiropractors are complementary and promote successful breastfeeding. The faster problems are detected (in the first days of life), the better the chances of favorable resolutions.
References:
Bates, B. (1999), Guide de l’examen clinique, 4ieme édition, France, Lippincott , William et Wilkins.
Watson Genna, C. (2012) Supporting Sucking Skills in Breastfeeding Infants, Jones & Bartlett Publishers, 260 pages
Young, G, 1983, Manual Specialization and the Developing Brain, Londres, Academic Press, 405 pages.
Miller, J.E., Miller, L., Sulesund, A-K., Yeytushenko, A. (2009) Contribution of Chiropractic Therapy to Resolving Suboptimal Breastfeeding: A Case Series of 114 Infants,Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics,Volume 32, Issue 8, Pages 670–674
Vallone, S., (2007), The Role of Subluxation and Chiropractic Care in Hypolactation, Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics, Volume 8, Nos. 1&2, Pages 519-524
