New Research on Failure to Thrive in Infants

Recent research reported in the Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research reveals that chiropractic may play an important role in managing infants with failure to thrive. The literature review included supports the role of chiropractic in infants suffering from the related health challenges and calls for more research in this area.

CLICK HERE to review the research

“Numerous case studies and some clinical studies are revealing that there is a relationship between abnormalities in the spine, the nervous system and the various health challenges that infants may experience” stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, a chiropractor, public health researcher and editor of the journal that published the study.

McCoy added “In the case report presented, the infant was suffering from failure to thrive and several other symptoms that resolved under chiropractic care because of the nature of the nervous system and its relationship to the spine.” 

According to researchers the nervous system controls and coordinates all functions of the body and structural shifts in the spine can occur that obstruct the nerves and interfere with their function. By removing the structural shifts, chiropractic improves nerve supply and function. 

The patient reported on in the study was a 4-month-old male suffering from failure to thrive. He suffered from inadequate weight gain, severe allergies, and excessive crying.  He vomited after each feeding.  He cried most of the time, did not sleep at night and only took short naps throughout the day.  He had seen several specialists without help. 

The chiropractor examined him and found structural shifts in his upper neck.  He had postural changes, asymmetry throughout his upper body, and flattening on the side of his skull.  Tight muscles in his neck severely limited his range of motion.  X-rays and other testing confirmed these findings.  These structural shifts can lead to obstruction of the nerves and it is this obstruction, called vertebral subluxations, that chiropractors correct. 

Following the first adjustment, his mother reported he was less fussy and he slept all night. His range of motion was restored in his neck.  He began gaining weight, meeting milestones, and body asymmetries resolved. 

The study’s authors called for additional research to investigate the clinical implications of chiropractic in children with failure to thrive. 

Contact Information: 

Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Journal of Upper Cervical Chiropractic Research
http://www.uppercervicalsubluxation.com
support@vertebralsubluxationresearch.com