Osteopathic Treatment for
Recurrent Middle Ear Infections - Otitis Media
Recurrent middle ear infections, otitis media, occur in up to 20% of children under six. Osteopathy is a natural, drug free treatment, which can help these children to recover quicker, and also help them to be less susceptible to subsequent infections.
Middle ear infections occur when the Eustachian tube becomes blocked. This tube runs from the ear into the back of the throat. In children this tube sits more horizontally than in adults. This means that when mucous is produced in the area it is not assisted by gravity to drain. As the child gets older they usually grow out of the tendency towards infection as the Eustachian tube becomes more vertical. Unfortunately there may be several years of infections before this occurs.
Osteopathic treatment of recurrent ear infections is aimed at improving the drainage from the middle ear. This is achieved by improving the function of the throat and sinus regions of the face. Treatment can also help to calm the nervous system so that any mucous which is produced is less viscous, allowing it to be blown out the nose more easily.
Osteopathy for Recurrent Ear Infections - A Case Study
Research Links
Osteopathic Treatment of Secretory Otitis Media (SOM)(Glue Ear)
Otitis media in nursery and primary schoolstage osteopathic treatment of otitis media with effusion
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Osteoapthic treatment for Middle Ear Infections