At TRUTH Family Chiropractic, we recognize how common ear infections are and their impact on individuals, particularly young children. In fact, 80% of kids will experience at least one ear infection by the age of three. The most prevalent type of ear infection affects the middle ear, caused by fluid buildup behind the eardrum.
A key component in middle ear infections is the auditory, or Eustachian, tube. This tube connects the middle ear to the nasopharynx (the back of the mouth) and has two essential functions: equalizing air pressure between the middle ear and the external environment and draining mucus from the middle ear. This is the mechanism that causes your ears to ‘pop’ while flying or driving through elevation changes.
Ear infections frequently arise from upper respiratory or sinus infections that spread to the ear. If the auditory tube does not function properly, fluid can accumulate, increasing the likelihood of infection. Research indicates that middle ear infections are often viral or a combination of viral and bacterial. Through precise and gentle chiropractic adjustments, we aid the body’s natural ability to facilitate proper drainage and function, ultimately reducing the frequency and severity of ear infections in both children and adults.
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How Our Ear Infections Care Plan Works
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Based on your health goals and your doctor’s findings, we’ll customize a plan of attack that will give you the solutions you’ve been desperately searching for.
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How We Treat Ear Infections in West Des Moines, IA
Our chiropractic approach integrates multiple holistic methods to address the root causes of ear infections naturally and non-invasively.
Thorough Consultation and Examination
During your initial visit, our chiropractors conduct an extensive consultation to understand your medical history, the frequency and severity of ear infections, and previous treatments. The physical examination specifically targets the spine and neck, especially the upper cervical area, to identify potential misalignments affecting the nervous system and ear health. Chiropractors utilize gentle palpation, range-of-motion assessments, and occasionally diagnostic imaging to detect spinal misalignments (subluxations). Your personalized treatment plan will incorporate spinal adjustments, practical lifestyle advice, and beneficial exercises.
Targeted Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic treatments for ear infections primarily address spinal misalignments, particularly in the cervical region, influencing the nervous system and Eustachian tube function. Our gentle adjustments correct these subluxations, restoring nerve function and promoting proper ear drainage. Additionally, cranial adjustments reduce tension in the neck and jaw area, further enhancing ear health. We also provide dietary and lifestyle guidance designed to boost your immune system and support overall wellness, reducing future infection occurrences.
Spinal Adjustments
Misalignments in the upper cervical spine can disrupt nerve signals and negatively impact Eustachian tube function, resulting in fluid accumulation and subsequent infections. Chiropractic adjustments gently realign vertebrae, improve nerve communication, and support the body’s natural ear drainage abilities, minimizing infection severity and recurrence.
Cranial Adjustments
Cranial adjustments gently manipulate cranial bones to relieve tension and enhance the performance of the cranial nerves and Eustachian tubes. Proper alignment of these bones promotes improved fluid drainage from the middle ear, particularly beneficial for young children whose cranial bones are still maturing.
Lifestyle and Nutritional Support
Our holistic approach emphasizes nutritional advice and lifestyle modifications to boost immune function. Recommendations often include incorporating vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and zinc, which strengthen immunity. We advise reducing allergen exposure, practicing thorough hygiene, and maintaining regular physical activity to enhance overall health and immunity.
Common Causes of Ear Infections in West Des Moines, IA
Understanding common ear infection triggers can significantly aid prevention and effective management:
Upper Respiratory Infections
Respiratory illnesses like colds and sinus infections often result in inflammation or blockage of the Eustachian tube, causing fluid retention and bacterial or viral growth, leading to ear infections.
Allergies
Allergic reactions can trigger swelling and congestion in nasal passages and the Eustachian tubes, promoting fluid accumulation in the mid ear and subsequent infections. Allergens commonly include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and specific foods.
Bacterial Infections
Common bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, frequently cause ear infections, entering the middle ear through the Eustachian tube, often after respiratory illnesses. Symptoms can include severe pain, fever, and drainage.
Viral Infections
Viruses responsible for colds and flu can also cause ear infections by swelling the Eustachian tube and trapping fluid. Though antibiotics can’t address viral infections directly, secondary bacterial infections often occur in fluid-filled ears.
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction
Children’s Eustachian tubes, shorter and narrower than adults’, are particularly susceptible to blockage and dysfunction, leading to fluid retention and infections.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to cigarette smoke, pollutants, and altitude changes increase ear infection risks. Smoke irritates respiratory mucous membranes, while altitude changes disrupt ear pressure balance, both contributing to fluid buildup.
Check Out Our Locations Near You
West Des Moines
1905 EP True Pkwy #207, West Des Moines, IA 50265
St. Charles
133 W Main Street St. Charles, IA 50240
Frequently Asked Questions
How can chiropractic care help ear infections?
Chiropractic treatments target spinal misalignments affecting nerve signals and Eustachian tube functions, reducing fluid buildup and infection frequency.
What chiropractic techniques are used for ear infections?
Techniques include gentle spinal and cranial adjustments that correct misalignments, enhance nerve communication, and improve middle ear drainage, alongside lifestyle and nutritional guidance.
Can chiropractic care help prevent future ear infections?
Regular chiropractic treatments enhance spinal alignment, nerve function, and overall immune health, significantly reducing recurrent ear infections.
Is chiropractic care safe for children experiencing ear infections?
Absolutely. Chiropractic care is gentle, safe, non-invasive, and tailored specifically for children, addressing ear infections without medication or surgery.
How many chiropractic sessions are needed for improvement?
The number of required sessions varies, depending on severity and response. Some patients experience improvement after a few visits, while others benefit from ongoing care.
What additional benefits does chiropractic care provide?
Beyond ear infection relief, chiropractic care boosts overall immunity, reduces stress, improves sleep, and enhances general well-being, positively impacting conditions such as colic, constipation, and reflux in children.
Can chiropractic care complement other ear infection treatments?
Chiropractic treatment integrates seamlessly with traditional medical therapies and home remedies. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider to make a complete care plan tailored to your needs, ensuring optimal health outcomes.
Book Your First Exam Today
Why wait to begin feeling relief? Contact us today to schedule your first appointment.