I want to discuss Infantile Colic and the way chiropractic
can assist. Colic is crying or fussing for three hours a day for three or more
days per week in a well-nourished, otherwise healthy baby. According to research approximately 10-30 %
of infants worldwide are affected by colic. In the early weeks, colic symptoms
are often mild, but as time goes on they become increasingly restless with
moaning, cramping etc.
Colic is usually from discomfort in the digestive system, but there are less common causes of Colic. Knowing the different types of Colic will help you in determining what can be done to assist your baby.
Colic is usually from discomfort in the digestive system, but there are less common causes of Colic. Knowing the different types of Colic will help you in determining what can be done to assist your baby.
There are four common types of Colic:
Digestive Colic-an
immature digestive system is more sensitive, so they will often feel pain in
the stomach. It is caused mainly by an excessive amount of gas. The gas can be
swallowed and needs to get released (Burped up) if it is not, indigestion,
reflux and discomfort will follow. The
symptoms include bloating, cramping, moaning & groaning, pushing and
straining. Babies have less control of stomach valves. Chiropractic stimulates
the nerve system and promotes control of the muscles of the valves.
An Injury from Birth or positional Colic- causes
muscular or skeletal tension and imbalance. During the birth or first few weeks
of life a baby’s body may be misaligned. How a baby lies in their crib or car seat etc.,
feeding habits or position all affect the alignment of a baby. Symptoms are
often present in birth and are more prevalent in caesarean deliveries or
traumatic births. The symptoms include cramping, arching, stiffness and crying
spells.
Intellectual Colic- sometimes a baby can be
over-stimulated when there is too much going on around them. This can happen to
babies who are alert, observant and very intelligent. A baby could also be
under stimulated; chiropractic can help with nervous system assistance.
Emotional Colic- Is often due to bonding issues.
could be that she is feeling insecure in her new environment and needs
assurance that is all ok or it could be that she is picking up on your
emotions. It could be that her crying upsets you for example. Chiropractic
stimulates the nervous system and helps heal and correct positional stress.
If you think your baby might be suffering with any of the
issues, give me a call or make an appointment to see me.
