Breastfeeding Support Team: When to Add a Chiropractor

Abstract

ObjectiveChiropractors are primary care clinicians with a musculoskeletal focus. As community-based practitioners, they are educated and available to treat the common problems of infancy, including sub-optimal breastfeeding. The objective of this investigation was to highlight some of the key skills and techniques used by chiropractors to assist the breastfeeding dyad.MethodsThe method of this paper was a brief review of the evidence for chiropractic care to improve breastfeeding problems and to highlight the biological plausibility for that evidence. The primary evidence was evaluated by expert opinion.ResultsMechanical forces during intrauterine life and during birth may negatively affect the oral-motor function of the newborn. Although it is difficult to establish exact reasons for these problems, assisted births such as forceps, vacuum extraction and cesarean section have been implicated. It is the job of the chiropractor to examine the infant to detect and diagnose musculoskeletal problems that may impair the infant's feeding efficiency. After making a diagnosis, a treatment plan of precise, gentle manipulation can help maximize the functional effectiveness of the muscles and joints involved in breastfeeding and comfort for the child.ConclusionThe chiropractor is one of many professionals poised to support and assist effective breastfeeding. A collaborative team can be helpful to gain early establishment and continuation of breastfeeding.