Earaches are a symptom of an ear infection. Another term for it is acute otitis externa (AOE). Ear infections have numerous causes. However, not all ear pain is automatically an infection. Plus, you may be able to help relieve fluid in the ear before it develops into an infection. Thus, getting an antibiotic from the doctor for an earache is not always the best solution.
We’re going to take a closer look at what causes ear pain. In particular, we will take note of the important role then neck may play when it comes to earaches and infections. Then we will discuss a natural way to get help for ear pain, recurring infections, and even ear problems like vertigo and Meniere’s disease.
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Earaches occur when fluid builds up in the ear or inflammation occurs within the ear. These conditions can also lead to an infection. Some risk factors that contribute to fluid buildup and inflammation include:
If you look at the anatomy of the neck and head, it is no wonder that the top bone of the spine, the atlas, can have an effect on the proper function of the ears. Located at the base of the skull, the atlas is almost directly between the ears. If a slight misalignment exists, what may this do to one or more of the ears?
If the eustachian tubes are affected, this can limit the ear’s ability to drain off excess fluid. Normally, the tiny eustachian tube can remove excess fluid so that things like vertigo, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or an earache do not occur. But if the atlas misalignment is putting pressure on the tube or causing inflammation in the area, it could lead to the gradual formation of a lesion on the eustachian tube.
In fact, in one study involving 300 Meniere’s disease patients, it was noted that this was a problem that existed. The average time between a traumatic experience that could have misaligned the atlas and the onset of Meniere’s was about 12.5 years. These results show the gradual effect that an upper cervical misalignment can have on the ears. Thus, the ears are clearly related to the cervical spine.
A collection of four cases studies highlighted the benefits of chiropractic for patients dealing with ear pain. In three of the four cases, an upper cervical misalignment was specifically noted as a contributing factor. In all four cases, chiropractic care was able to provide help for the patients. But directly affecting the ears is not the only way upper cervical chiropractic may be able to help.
The immune system relies on the central nervous system to determine when to move into action. Thus, a properly functioning CNS is vital to a strong immune system. Since many cases of ear problems go back to bacterial or viral infections, the immune system plays a key role in staving off earaches. Here are three ways that upper cervical chiropractic can benefit the central nervous system:
As you can see, the upper cervical spine plays a vital role when it comes to the function of the ear and the central nervous system. Thus, it makes sense to see an upper cervical practitioner if you or a loved one is suffering from chronic ear pain or other ear issues. This site can help you to find an upper cervical chiropractor in your area.
Schedule a consultation with an upper cervical chiropractor to learn more about this natural way to get relief from earaches and many other symptoms that may ultimately signify a misalignment. If an examination reveals a misalignment in the C1 or C2, this may be the underlying cause of the issue. A gentle adjustment may, therefore, be able to help you to attain long-term relief rather than the mere short-term benefits that are offered by medical care that just covers up the symptoms of a problem.
Why do chiropractors adjust ears?
The spine is interconnected to all other parts of the body. And because the Eustachian tubes are dependent on vertebrae function, realignment of the vertebrae can reduce tissue swelling around the Eustachian tube. This can help or aid to drain the middle ear thus reducing swelling or any types of inflammation.
Do chiropractic adjustments help ear infections?
Yes, once chiropractic care is applied, the ear drainage improves. This can help decrease ear infections or the symptoms of it.
Why do chiropractors pop or crack your ears?
Popping or cracking of ears can help improve ear drainage. This can help reduce swelling and treat ear infections in the long run.
TV show host Montel Williams describes how specific chiropractic care has helped his body.
The content and materials provided in this web site are for informational and educational purposes only and are not intended to supplement or comprise a medical diagnosis or other professional opinion, or to be used in lieu of a consultation with a physician or competent health care professional for medical diagnosis and/or treatment. All content and materials including research papers, case studies and testimonials summarizing patients' responses to care are intended for educational purposes only and do not imply a guarantee of benefit. Individual results may vary, depending upon several factors including age of the patient, severity of the condition, severity of the spinal injury, and duration of time the condition has been present.