Ear Aches

Earaches and ear infections can be excruciating, especially for children. In fact, ear infections (otitis media) are the most common illness in babies and young children, with about 10 million new cases every year. They account for more than 35% of all pediatric visits.

Almost half of children will experience at least one middle ear infection before their first birthday, and by age three, two-thirds of children will have had at least one episode. Symptoms often include ear pain, fever, and irritability. Otitis media may be viral or bacterial, and it frequently develops after another illness, such as a cold. For many families, recurrent ear infections become a chronic struggle, sometimes leading to long-term hearing issues or speech and developmental delays if left unaddressed [1].

How Chiropractic Adjustments Can Help

Research and clinical experience show that chiropractic adjustments can reduce both fluid build-up in the ear and the frequency of infections. Here’s how:

1. Addressing Upper Spinal Misalignments

   Chiropractors carefully assess the upper spine, particularly the top vertebrae (the atlas) and the occiput (base of the skull). Misalignments in these areas may contribute to nerve irritation and inflammation, disrupting the body’s ability to properly drain the ears. Correcting these misalignments can restore nerve communication, reduce inflammation, and even support immune system function.

   
   

2. Releasing the Eustachian Tube

   A specific chiropractic adjustment can also be performed directly on the ear. This helps open the Eustachian tube, allowing fluid to drain normally rather than becoming trapped. When the Eustachian tube closes and creates a vacuum, fluid builds up inside the middle ear. This not only causes painful pressure against the eardrum but also creates an environment where bacteria can thrive.

   
   

   By releasing the Eustachian tube, fluid is able to drain properly into the back of the throat—where it normally should—reducing pain and helping to prevent infections. Patients often describe the sensation of fluid draining in the throat immediately after this adjustment.

   
   

3. Supporting Natural Healing

   Chiropractic care does not replace medical care when necessary, but it can be a safe and effective option for reducing recurring infections and supporting the body’s natural healing processes. For children who struggle with repeat ear infections, chiropractic adjustments may reduce the need for repeated rounds of antibiotics or surgical interventions like ear tubes.

What to Expect

This gentle adjustment must always be performed by a trained professional. The procedure can sometimes feel unusual, and the “popping” sound of the release may startle a child. However, the adjustment itself is safe, and the benefits—improved drainage, reduced infection risk, and less ear pain—make it worthwhile for many families.

If you or your child are struggling with earaches or frequent ear infections, chiropractic care offers a natural, supportive approach that addresses the root cause rather than only masking symptoms.

References

1. Lieberthal AS, Carroll AE, Chonmaitree T, et al. The diagnosis and management of acute otitis media. Pediatrics. 2013;131(3):e964–e999. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2012-3488