SIDS, Preventable Epidemic?

Lately, there has been a lot of discussion about SIDS (also known as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). SIDS takes the life of more than five thousand infants each year and is defined as the sudden and unexplained death of an infant less than one year of age.

While the cause of SIDS hasn’t been proven, recent research explains that a possible cause may be due to Atlanto-Occipital hypermobility. This hypermobility refers to a misalignment (or subluxation) between the top vertebrae in the neck (the atlas) and the base of the skull. Research is showing that this misalignment can put pressure against the level of the brain stem that controls breathing and heart function. No wonder these kids are not thriving!

Pediatric chiropractors, like myself, understand the impact that the birth process can have on the spine, and recommend that children be checked by a chiropractor at birth to remove nerve interference, allowing the infant to thrive, and to prevent potential future issues. While subluxation is not the definitive cause of SIDS, it is strongly implicated. I guess these chiropractors may have been on to something, huh? Adjustments also help keep the body strong to fight against asthma, headaches, flu viruses, and poor posture, so they are a win-win for the body.

Make sure to have your child checked for any spinal misalignments. Call our office today to schedule your child for her or his exam!