Infant colic is defined as uncontrolled crying or difficulty soothing in an otherwise healthy, well-fed infant. A generally accepted definition is Wessel’s rule of 3s: crying or fussing for at least three hours per day, on three or more days, for three or more weeks.
Is colic common/normal?
Colic is the most common presentation to pediatricians during the first 16 weeks of life. Studies have shown that up to 19% of all infants are afflicted with some type of crying syndrome. The onset of colic is usually between birth and 24 weeks old, with the peak typically occurring between 3 and 6 weeks of age. 86% of cases will resolve by 3 months of age, however others can persist longer.
Why does colic happen?
The trauma of birth often leads to the development of cranial and sacral dysfunctions, known as subluxations, which manifest in the form of infantile colic. The consumption of formula containing cow’s milk has also been linked to infantile colic.
What are the consequences of colic?
Persistent crying is uncomfortable for babies, stressful for the parents and has been linked to post-partum depression. Persistent crying is also the leading cause of Shaken Baby Syndrome and a major precursor for child abuse and neglect in general. Some studies have shown the possibility of behavioral problems, lower academic achievements in later year and deficits in attachment and boding in children with untreated colic as infants.
How does Chiropractic help with colic?
Chiropractors are trained to identify and remove your child’s spinal subluxations; a safe, gentle and effective strategy to reduce symptoms of infantile colic. Correcting spinal dysfunction reduces irritation to your child’s nervous system, allowing for resolution of colic symptoms in an otherwise healthy infant. In addition, your Chiropractor can provide you with advice on nutrition, supplementation and infant ergonomics to support your child’s growing body.
A wellness approach
It’s important to note that chiropractic itself is not a “cure” for colic. In reality, your child’s body does all of the healing; chiropractors are there to help ensure proper function of the spine and freedom for your child’s nervous system to operate properly.
Research Studies
One study of 316 cases of colic showed satisfactory results with chiropractic adjustments in 94% of cases, with the results occurring within 2 weeks.
Another study showed complete resolution of symptoms in 93% of infants withing 2 weeks and a maximum of 6 treatments, with no recurrence and a statistically significant difference between the placebo group and the chiropractic group.
In a blind study, parents observed the positive effects on crying behavior with chiropractic care without knowing if their infant received a chiropractic adjustment or not, eliminating any bias from the parents observing treatment.
Overall, studies show that taking a colicky infant to a chiropractor will likely result in fewer reported hours of colic by the parents.
Research and information thanks to Wellness Media Resources! If you’re ready to get you or your kids’ health back on track, schedule your new patient appointment today!