New Research Highlights Chiropractic Success in Avoiding Ear Surgery from Recurrent Ear Infections in Children
Originally published: 2025-08-21
ATLANTA, Georgia – 2025
A new study has been published in the Journal of Pediatric Maternal & Family Health Chiropractic presenting compelling evidence of the resolution of recurrent bilateral acute otitis media (AOM) in a 13-month-old child following subluxation-based chiropractic care. The literature review included supports the role of chiropractic in those suffering from these health challenges and calls for more research in this area.
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Otitis media is one of the most common childhood illnesses and often leads to repeated antibiotic use or surgical interventions like tympanostomy tube placement. Chiropractic care focuses on identifying and correcting vertebral subluxations to restore proper nerve communication and spinal function. By improving nervous system regulation, chiropractic may help normalize eustachian tube function, enhance immune response, and reduce the frequency and severity of ear infections.
"The nervous system controls and coordinates all functions of the body," explains. Matthew McCoy DC, MPH the Editor of the journal that published the study. "Structural shifts in the spine can interfere with this vital communication. By correcting vertebral subluxations, chiropractors restore nerve function and support the body’s innate ability to heal."
A 13-month-old male was presented for chiropractic care with signs and symptoms of acute infections in both ears. Since the age of three months, he had experienced recurring ear and sinus infections, treated with multiple rounds of antibiotics. Due to the persistence of these infections, an ENT specialist had recommended immediate bilateral tympanostomy tube surgery, which was scheduled prior to the chiropractic consultation.
Seeking a non-surgical alternative, the child’s adoptive parents opted for chiropractic care. The chiropractor conducted an examination that included otoscopy, paraspinal thermography, static and motion palpation and thermal scanning. Care was delivered using the Gonstead technique, employing spinal adjustments to address vertebral subluxations.
The child responded quickly to care, with a marked reduction in symptoms following the first adjustment. By the fourth visit, the redness and inflammation of the tympanic membranes had resolved. As a result, the scheduled tympanostomy surgery was canceled. The child remained under ongoing chiropractic care and experienced no recurrence of ear infections or complications.
This case highlights the potential role of subluxation-based chiropractic care in resolving recurrent otitis media and preventing unnecessary surgical intervention in pediatric patients. The study’s author called for additional research to investigate the clinical implications of chiropractic in this population.
Contact Information:
Matthew McCoy DC, MPH
Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – Chiropractic
http://www.chiropracticpediatricresearch.net
drmatthewmccoy@gmail.com
954.281.2638
