A recent article in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health reported on a study that documented the positive effects of chiropractic adjustments on a four year-old male.
A four year-old male presented with complaints of otitis media, adenoid swelling, nasal congestion, and fluid buildup and hearing loss in both ears associated with speech difficulties, developmental delay, and behavioral concerns.
“Otitis media accounted for 24.5 million doctor’s visits in 1990,” said Dr. Dougherty Spokane-based, D.C., who follows health and wellness issues closely in professional journals and other publications, “and it is also the most common reason for emergency room visits among children.” This child had been previously diagnosed by his pediatrician and an ENT physician with bilateral hearing loss, fluid build-up in the middle ears, swollen adenoids, and swollen nasal tissue. His parent also mentioned he was diagnosed with expressive speech delay and developmental delay with behavioral issues.
Developmental delay, noticed by his mother, included not speaking at an age appropriate time and level of language was behind. Behavioral issues were related to impulsivity with difficulty sitting, waiting and being on task. The child had also completed approximately 5 cycles of amoxicillin over the last three years and sporadically used Nasonex nasal spray 3 times per week depending on his level of congestion.
“The patient’s mother was concerned about his developmental delay and possible need for surgical intervention.” stated Dr. Dougherty. Shortly after the initiation of chiropractic care the mother reported her son was no longer using Nasonex for two reasons: she did not want him on medication and was beginning to see improvements. After 11 chiropractic adjustments, the patient’s re-evaluation with the ENT physician revealed resolution of otitis media, adenoid hypertrophy, nasal congestion, hearing loss and improvement of speech, development and behavior.
“This is just one study,” explained Dr. Dougherty, “but the role of chiropractic and its beneficial effects on the immune system merit further investigation.”
Anyone wishing more information may contact Dr. Dougherty, whose office is located at 2110 N. Washington Street, Spokane WA (telephone 509-327-4373).
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