Infection of the middle ear, or acute otitis media, is a common symptom among children. In fact, it is the most common cause of fever in the early years of life. This condition may be very painful and after several recurring infections, may result in permanent damage.

THE MEDICAL APPROACH:
A popular medical method of treatment of otitis media is prescription of oral antibiotics, ususally amoxicillin. According to the Journal of American Medical Association (December 1991), however, amoxicillin with and without decongestant is not effective for the treatment of persistent asymptomatic middle-ear effusions (fluids)in infants and children. In fact, after administration of amoxicillin, occurrence of fluid in the ear was two to six times greater.

A DIFFERENT APPROACH TO CHILDHOOD EAR INFECTIONS:
Research shows that upper respiratory infections (UTI), including otitis media may be caused by improper drainage of the deep neck lymphatics. In these cases, a doctor looking in your child’s ear will see a build up of fluid behind the tympanic membrane (ear drum), with the inside of the ear appearing inflamed and the ear drum bulging. The most recent research suggests reduced drainage or blockage in the drainage system of the cervical (neck) lymphatic chains causes a reduction in the lymphatic outflow from the eustachian tube. This allows fluid to build up in the inner ear, making it an inviting environment for bacteria and viruses. Improper drainage of this fluid is caused by a combination of events. Increased muscle tone or muscle spasms, coupled with a child’s already small drainage system, appear to be the major factors.

THE CHIROPRACTIC APPROACH:
Vertebrae fit together so that the nerve supply produced by your brain may filter down your spinal cord and out over your nerves. This nerve supply is responsible for growth, repair, and healing your entire body. When vertebrae are out of their natural alignment, nerves become stretched or twisted and this vital communication system in the body is disrupted.

Correction of the vertebral subluxations is performed by a Chiropractor. This is done by laying hands on the back and spine and gently lining up the vertebrae in their natural position. Chiropractic adjustments applied to the neck corrects subluxations, restores normal function, and reduces or eliminates the tense neck musculature responsible for blocking the normal drainage of the fluid. As this obstruction to the lymphatic system is removed, the excess fluid in the ears drains. The inviting environment for bacteria and viruses to grow is removed, and the infection can be healed. Once normal drainage is restored, the recurrence of the ear infection is diminished or nonexistent.