.
Christie Hafer DC
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health, Chiropractic ~ August 21, 2025 ~ Volume 2025 ~ Pages 70-78
.
Abstract
Objective: To describe the positive health outcomes in a 13-month-old child with bilateral recurrent otitis media undergoing chiropractic care. We include a selective review of literature and discussion of the pathophysiological and salutogenic mechanisms related to relief of otitis media through chiropractic care.
Clinical Features: The patient presented to the chiropractor with signs & symptoms of acute bilateral otitis media with a scheduled bilateral tympanostomy surgery. The patient had had recurring ear & sinus infections since 3 months of age treated with several rounds of antibiotics. Chiropractic care was sought by the parents in the hopes of avoiding tympanostomy surgery.
Intervention and outcome: Gonstead technique was utilized in the examination and care of this patient. Examination included otoscopy, paraspinal thermography, static palpation, motion palpation and atlas fossa temperature differential readings. The treatment utilized was high-velocity-low-amplitude manual adjustments of found vertebral subluxations. The patient showed quick improvement with reduction of symptomology within the first visit. Redness of the tympanic membranes went away before the fourth visit. The patient is still currently under chiropractic care and has not had any recurrence or serious complications since starting care.
Conclusions: The patient showed immediate improvement & no recurrence of otitis media throughout his care plan. The patient is still undergoing wellness care under the same chiropractor 3 months later.
Key Words: chiropractic, otitis media, ear infection, bilateral otitis media, acute otitis media, subluxation, pediatric chiropractic, Gonstead technique
