Colic is classified as inconsolable crying in babies that lasts no less than three hours a day, three days a week, for at least three weeks! Most parents are encouraged to try consoling their infant with the three S’s—swaddle, stomach or side position, shush, swing, and suck. But what if that doesn’t work? Parents try gas drops, rocking, singing, riding in the car… all to no avail.
It is understandable that some nights parents of babies with colic feel like crying right along with their howling infant, and it is normal and expected to have feelings of frustration and hopelessness. If you are a parent of a colicky baby, our physical medicine professionals can make life easier.
It is important to recognize that a baby’s nervous system and spinal alignment can be compromised, even at such a young age. And normal nervous system function is as critical in infants as it is in adults. Newborns are at risk for spinal subluxations (one or more vertebrae out of position) during the birth process or from being constricted in-utero. If your baby had a breech or transverse presentation during pregnancy, was born via c-section, or was subjected to forceps or a vacuum extraction, your baby is already at risk for spinal subluxation. Chiropractic care offers a natural, safe approach to realigning the vertebrae and soothing a baby with colic.
At our clinic, we see infants as young as three weeks old. We will first examine your baby to rule out any medical reasons for the crying—hernia, swelling, infection, hair wrapped around a finger or toe, etc. Once we determine that your baby does not have an underlying condition requiring conventional medical care, we can offer a number of physical medicine techniques to decrease the crying.
Gentle spinal repositioning is proven to dramatically comfort a baby. Spinal manipulation improves nerve function, which allows for better communication between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. Does your baby get fussy when nursing from one particular breast? Your baby may actually be uncomfortable, and gentle chiropractic adjustments may also improve your infant’s ability to nurse happily on either breast.
Our massage specialists can share with you gentle techniques to relax the soft tissues surrounding your baby’s neck and spine. They can also offer methods that will aid your baby’s digestive system.
Parenting is difficult enough without incessant crying, so let our professional physical medicine team help soothe your baby.
To understand more about colic and chiropractic care, call our office today to schedule a FREE consultation.