Resolution of Suckling Intolerance in a 6-month-old Chiropractic Patient

This section is compiled by Frank M. Painter, D.C.
Send all comments or additions to:   Frankp@chiro.org

FROM: J Manipulative Physiol Ther 2000 (Nov);   23 (9):   615–618

David P. Holtrop, DC, DICCP

4171 S. 15th Street, Sheboygan, WI 53081; drdave@nconnect.net


OBJECTIVE:   To discuss the management and resolution of suckling intolerance in a 6-month-old infant.

CLINICAL FEATURES:   A 6-month-old boy with a 4(1/2)-month history of aversion to suckling was evaluated in a chiropractic office. Static and motion palpation and observation detected an abnormal inward dishing at the occipitoparietal junction, as well as upper cervical (C1-C2) asymmetry and fixation. These indicated the presence of cranial and upper cervical subluxations.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME:   The patient was treated 5 times through use of cranial adjusting; 4 of these visits included atlas (C1) adjustment. The suckling intolerance resolved immediately after the first office visit and did not return.

CONCLUSION:   It is possible that in the infant, a relationship between mechanical abnormalities of the cervicocranial junction and suckling dysfunction exists; further research in this area could be beneficial. Possible physiological etiologies of painful suckling are presented.

Return to the CASE STUDIES Section

Since 2-17-2004