Chiropractic as a Solution for Breastfeeding Difficulties
“Among other numerous benefits of chiropractic care for infants, the ability to successfully breastfeed has life long consequences for the baby’s future health potential.”
New, breastfeeding mothers worry about all kinds of things: ”Is my baby latching correctly? Why does she want to nurse so often? Is it normal for my nipples to be so sore? Why does she only want to nurse in one position?”
What moms may not realize is that chiropractic care for their infant could resolve many common breastfeeding difficulties. The birthing process can be traumatic for your baby, putting stress on his head and spine. As a result, your baby may have biomechanical injuries that are affecting his ability to breastfeed.
Some of the most common indicators of difficulty with breastfeeding are:
Babies who cannot latch firmly
Babies who can latch and not sustain sucking
Babies who are unable to smoothly coordinate suckling, swallowing, and breathing
Babies who can feed in only one position
Babies who seem dissatisfied when nursing or who remain fussy and distressed throughout the day
Babies who chew and damage the mother’s nipples
Babies who may not feed any better from other devices
Babies who have the need to suck 24/7
(excerpted from Breastfeeding Difficulties and Chiropractic)
Exclusive breastfeeding is best for the first six months, for all kinds of good reasons. Breastfeeding boosts your baby’s immune system, strengthens your emotional bond, and provides the nutritional support he needs for physical and neurological development.
Moms set out with the best of intentions, but when breastfeeding difficulties arise, they often give up early, because they can’t find the support or solutions they need to successfully continue.
Chiropractor Jeanne Ohm, in Pathways to Wellness, suggests that chiropractic care may be the missing link. Chiropractic addresses the underlying biomechanical causes behind your baby’s breastfeeding difficulties, so you and your baby can continue enjoying the benefits of breastfeeding. It’s one more excellent reason to schedule a chiropractic exam for your newborn, in support of his lifelong health and well-being.
Get more breastfeeding help in our blog, Five Breastfeeding Tips for Mom.
For local breastfeeding support, contact Ashley Lucas, RN, IBCLC.
Source: Pathways to Family Wellness magazine, Issue #11.