February 17, 2025
When it comes to feeding babies, we all agree that "fed is best." However, breastfeeding offers a range of benefits for both mother and child. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months has been linked to improved immunity, reduced risk of infections, and long-term health benefits for infants. For mothers, breastfeeding can lower the risk of breast and ovarian cancer and even reduce the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes.
Beyond nutrition, breastfeeding also supports emotional and physiological bonding. The skin-to-skin contact involved in breastfeeding stimulates the release of oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," which enhances bonding and promotes relaxation for both mother and baby. But while breastfeeding is highly beneficial, it can sometimes present challenges that require extra support.
The Reality of Breastfeeding Challenges
Most Australian mothers begin their breastfeeding journey with the best of intentions. In fact, the 2010 Australian National Infant Feeding Survey found that 96% of mothers initiate breastfeeding. However, these numbers drop significantly over time:
- By around three months, only 39% of babies are exclusively breastfed.
- By five months, only 15% remain exclusively breastfed.
- At 12 months, only 28% of babies are still receiving any breastmilk.
- By two years, just 5% of children are still breastfeeding. (1)
Breastfeeding plays an essential role in an infant’s oral and jaw development, influencing palate formation, breathing, and future dental health. However, various factors can affect an infant’s ability to breastfeed effectively, including tethered oral tissues (TOTs) such as tongue and lip ties, birth trauma, and musculoskeletal restrictions.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Many parents are unaware that chiropractors can support breastfeeding success through gentle and non-invasive techniques. Chiropractic care can help address:
- Oral function issues – Subluxations in the upper spine may contribute to poor sucking, swallowing, and latching.
- Neck and jaw mobility – Restricted movement due to birth trauma or positioning in utero may impact a baby’s ability to turn their head and latch correctly.
- Tethered oral tissues (TOTs) – While frenectomy (surgical intervention for tongue or lip ties) is sometimes necessary, chiropractic adjustments, oral soft tissue therapy, and dural stretches can improve function without surgery.
- Stress and nervous system function – A regulated nervous system can promote better coordination of reflexes necessary for breastfeeding.
A publication in the Asia Pacific Chiropractic Journal examined seven cases of infants aged nine days to four months experiencing breastfeeding difficulties. These babies received chiropractic care to address vertebral subluxations, combined with oral soft tissue therapy and dural stretching techniques. Across all cases, improvements in breastfeeding success were noted. None of the cases reported adverse effects, reinforcing the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic care for infants (2).
When to Consider Chiropractic Care for Your Baby
If you or your baby are experiencing any of the following breastfeeding challenges, a consultation with a chiropractor may be beneficial:
- Difficulty latching or maintaining a latch
- Painful breastfeeding or nipple damage
- Clicking sounds while feeding
- Frequent reflux, colic, or excessive gas
- Preference for turning the head to one side
- Signs of discomfort during feeding
A Holistic Approach to Breastfeeding Success
Breastfeeding is a journey that can be rewarding yet challenging. While some cases of TOTs may require surgical intervention, chiropractic care provides a gentle, holistic approach that may improve breastfeeding success. By addressing underlying musculoskeletal and nervous system imbalances, chiropractors can help babies feed more effectively, reducing stress for both mother and child.
If you’re navigating breastfeeding difficulties, consider adding chiropractic care to your support team. A well-supported baby means a well-supported mother—and that’s something worth investing in.
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References
1) Australian Breastfeeding Association. 2024. Resources, Breastfeeding rates in Australia. https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/breastfeeding-rates-australia
2) Elster E. Sixteen Infants with Acid Reflux and Colic Undergoing Upper Cervical Chiropractic Care to Correct Vertebral Subluxation: A Retrospective Analysis of Outcome. J Pediatr Matern & Fam Health – Chirp. 2009. 2;1-7
Post on February 17, 2025
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