Reflux in babies
Reflux, or regurgitation, is common and is a frequent cause of distress in both infants and young children. In some cases it can become chronic and severe leading to inflammation of the lining of the gullet. In the newborn it is seen as the spitting up or vomiting of food, after or between feeds. Whereas in toddlers and children it can present as chest pain, asthma, recurrent pneumonia, wheezing and even anorexia.
The main cause is the poor control of the band of muscle (sphincter) that prevents the stomach contents from being regurgitated back into the oesophagus (gullet). This may be due to delayed development or choice of feed (breast milk is emptied faster than cows milk!). Irritation at the back of the head due to the strain of delivery, or discomfort in the neck, can potentially affect the nerves to the diaphragm or sphincter (which sits within the diaphragm). Or tension in the diaphragm itself from problems with the back or ribs could also affect sphincter control.
Our treatment is aimed at removing these strains and allowing normal nerve function to the diaphragm and sphincter. Any strains and compression to the back and ribcage will also be addressed. We can also give advice about positioning your baby after feeds, and dietary changes that you can make to reduce possible irritation to your baby's gut.
Click to read how osteopathy helped Baby Charlie with his reflux.
