Kids and Colic

Bottom Line:

There’s nothing like the sound of a colicky baby. If you’ve experienced this in the past, I hope that sentence didn’t send shivers down your spine. Colic is characterised by intense crying and fussiness for 3 or more hours a day, which conveniently starts just about the time you are getting ready to sit down and relax for the night! The symptoms associated with colic typically peak at around six weeks old and disappear by 3-4 months, but the time in between can be one of the most stressful for any parent.

Why it Matters:

The exact cause of colic is still unknown. The development of the gut, or digestive system, appears to be an important factor. Also, stimulation to their still-developing nervous system may play a role. While love and patience may be the best “medicine” for dealing with colic, researchers have also discovered that Chiropractic care may be beneficial.  One study found that Chiropractic adjustments provided over a 2-hour decrease in crying time per day.

·       Colic is defined by extreme crying or fussiness for more than 3 hours per day.

·       There is no known cause of colic, but the development of the digestive and nervous systems seems to be a key factor.

·       Chiropractic care may be beneficial in reducing the symptoms associated with colic.

Next Steps:

Dealing with colic isn’t easy, but try not to get too stressed out. Within a few months, the symptoms should naturally subside and all of those hours spent crying will be in your rearview mirror.

Science Source: Colic. Mayo Clinic. 2018. The short-term effect of spinal manipulation in the treatment of infantile colic: a randomized controlled clinical trial with a blinded observer. JMPT 1999.

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Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings and Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 10 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).

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The ADHD Generation

Bottom Line:

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is commonly identified when a child has difficulty paying attention and controlling their behaviour. Over the past ten years, we have witnessed the rate of children diagnosed with ADHD increase by 42%. The potential for over-diagnosis has caused a lightning rod of controversy within the medical profession as doctors have begun to speak out about the number of prescriptions that are filled each year for powerful stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall.

Why it Matters:

Providing powerful psychoactive medications to children has a significant set of risks, without providing a cure. And while the medications can improve the symptoms, they don’t address any of the underlying causes of the disorder. This is why leading healthcare organisations have begun to encourage a more conservative approach to managing ADHD. Adding conservative care, such as behavioural therapy, has been shown to eliminate the use of medications for nearly 40% of kids.

·       The American Psychological Association has recommended behavioural therapy as a first line treatment for kids under 5.

·       Exercise elevates the levels of dopamine and serotonin which can increase focus and attention.

·       Reducing sugar intake while increasing protein and high-fibre foods can help stabilise energy levels.

Next Steps:

Our practice has worked with many families who have a child diagnosed with ADHD. We will happily direct you to additional resources that will help you find natural treatment options.

Science Source: Twenty-Year Trends in Diagnosed Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Among US Children and Adolescents, 1997-2016. Pediatrics. 2018. Time. Growing Up with ADHD. 2018.

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Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings and Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 10 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).

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The Truth About Ear Infections

Bottom Line:

Chronic ear infections, or otitis media, can be frustrating for both a child and their parents. While the child is dealing with the painful inflammation and fluid build-up in the middle ear, many parents find it challenging to decide the best treatment and course of action. 

Why it Matters:

Ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their kids to the doctor. Nearly five out of six children will experience at least one ear infection by their 3rd birthday. There are a few reasons kids tend to get ear infections. One is because the small tubes that are designed to drain the fluid in the ear are smaller and less angled than in adults. Also, a child’s immune system isn’t fully developed, so it’s more challenging to fight infections.

·       Congestion in the Eustachian tube between the middle ear and throat can lead to a buildup of fluid and pressure which can cause an ear infection. 

·       Antibiotics should only be prescribed when the ear infection has a bacterial cause. 

·       Researchers have found a correlation between Chiropractic adjustments and the resolution of ear infections in children.

Next Steps:

The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages jumping into prescriptions anti-antibiotics right now. By exploring natural remedies and treatments, many children can overcome ear infections without the side-effects associated with repetitive antibiotic use.  Be sure to visit our Facebook Page where we have devoted this week to providing information on how you can find natural relief from ear infections!

Science Source: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders. Ear Infections in Children. 2017. The Role of the Chiropractic Adjustment in the Care and Treatment of 332 Children with Otitis Media. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics 1997.

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Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings and Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 10 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).

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Bouncing Back from the Holiday Hangover

Bottom Line:

The New Year = a new opportunity to get healthier, lose those extra pounds, and overcome the holiday hangover. The first step to having more energy, getting active and shedding those few extra pounds? Giving your body the proper nutrition. Really! Keep reading for a quick rundown of some of the best snacks and supplements that can help you boost your energy levels and get ready to shed those pounds.

Why it Matters:

When it comes to getting that energy boost, it’s all about eating the right foods at the right time. Try to plan small meals and incorporate snacks into your daily routine to keep your body fueled and your energy levels high.

·       Eat for energy by consuming foods packed with healthy sources of protein, fats, carbs, and more like blueberries, strawberries, wild salmon, animal protein (organ meats), nuts, and vegetables.

·       Maintain your energy level upgrade by avoiding processed snacks that are high in sugar.

·       Consider adding daily supplements such as fish oil and/or probiotics which may help to reduce inflammation and improve digestion.

Next Steps:

Try it. Focus on eating those 2-3 small meals per day and aim for a snack every few hours in-between. Adjusting what you eat and when will help you keep your energy up throughout the day so you can feel better, think better, and be more motivated to stick to those resolutions. If you have questions or just want some help coming up with a plan, give us a call or stop in and see us today!

Science Source: Harvard Health Publishing. 2017 Brain foods: the effects of nutrients on brain function. Nat Rev NeuroSci. 2008

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Dr. Ryno Tope is a Doctor of Chiropractic, a member of the New Zealand Chiropractic Association, and owner of Structural Chiropractic in Hastings and Havelock North, Hawke’s Bay. Dr. Tope focuses on an area of chiropractic called Structural Correction and has been in practice for 10 years. You can reach Dr. Tope at drryno@structuralchiro.co.nz or 06•651•1004. You can also follow the Structural Chiropractic Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StructuralChiropracticHB).

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