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Ear Infections

Otitis media can occur when the eustachian tube is blocked, or obstructed, by physical or mechanical means, such as swollen tonsils or adenoids. This form of mechanical obstruction contributes to the development of middle ear problems (and quite possibly the tonsilar and adenoid swelling in some children) called biomechanical obstruction. Biomechanical obstruction refers to blockage that is due to problems involving the structural compon nts of the cervical spine, i.e., bones ofthe upper neck. Biomechanical problems often develop as a result of trauma due to normal birth. The result of this type of injury includes misalignment of the upper vertebrae relative to one another (called subluxation). These effects can go undetected for months or even years. The child may display no obvious signs of injury, yet may suffer .from eye, nose, throat, and of course, middle ear complaints. Gottfried Gutmann, M.D., has reported research showing that blocked nerve impulses, which res!llt from distortions in the occiput (base of the skull) and the first and second cervical vertebrae, contribute to many clinical conditions, ranging from central motor impairment to lowered resistance to infection. He states that increased susceptibility to infection of the ear, nose, and throat is one of the most common consequences of these upper cervical misalignments. Patricia C. Brennan, Ph.D., has recently shown that the activity of two types of white blood cells (known as neutrophils and monocytes) can be enhanced using spinal manipulation. With enhanced function, these cells are more efficient at killing bacteria. Therefore, biomechanical problems adversely affect immune function and correction of these problems is beneficial to the immune system. Dr. Christiana recommends that examination of the upper cervical spine be mandatory after every birth. In this way, when problems are found, they can immediately be corrected by manipulation (also called adjustment). Not only do biomechanical problems affect the nervous and immune systems, but they can contribute to impaired drainage of the lymphatic vessels. The lymphatic system is a network of vessels designed to carry immune cells and metabolic waste products away to the liver 1;0 be reprocessed. When biomechanical problems interfere with this process, the tonsils and adenoids (really just large lymph nodes), which are already working overtime to fight a local infection, cannot effectively discharge their waste products. This not only limits their'infection-fighting capability, but it encourages them to remain swollen, further adding to the congestion of the eustachian tube. To understand the importance of nerve supply, consider the importance of blood supply. When the blood supply to the heart is slowly reduced over time, the efficiency of the heart muscle begins to decline. If the blood supply is abruptly interrupted, as in a heart attack, the heart tissue supplied by the vessels that have been blocked will die. Nerve fibers supply information to the parts of the body with which they connect. When nerve conduction is interfered with, the structures that the nerves supply are damaged as a result. Because of this interference, the structures these nerves supply in the ear, nose, and throat suffer from impaired function. Note from Dr. Christiana: Care should begin at birth due to trauma from birth. Science has demonstrated the need for and safety of chiropractic care. For the health of your child(ren), have their spine checked; share this information with friend , family, and your pediatrician so others can be helped.

Our purpose is to educate and adjust families toward optimal health