Ear Infection

Ear Infection or otitis media is an inner ear infection generally caused from a blockage of the Eustachian tubes or inner ear canal. The Eustachian Tube allows equalized pressure on the eardrum and allows fluid to drain away from the inner ear. When the Eustachian tube is blocked, fluid becomes stagnant and bacteria and viruses grow and cause an infection. The first cervical (neck) joint is very close to the Eustachian Tube and when the musculature around that joint are tight they change the motion of the joint and it can put pressure on the Tube and thus restrict fluid flow. This most commonly affects children as their Eustachian tubes are more horizontal then adults which are more vertically oriented and flow more easily.

Symptoms:

Earaches or tugging at the ear
Irritability
Ear and nasal drainage
Fever
Poor sleep
Decreased appetite

Healthy Living Tips For Ear Infections.

Periodic checkups or supportive care. Supporting proper functioning of the cervial joints and decreasing pressure on the Eustachian tube aids in fluid drainage.

Home massage techniques. Drs. Hemmett will teach you how to massage your child's neck to decrease muscle tightness.

Dietary advice. Some foods such as dairy can trigger allergies in your child and make them more susceptible to ear infections.

Questions?

Do you have a question about your current situation that you'd like to ask? Send an email with your question to: questions@optimalhealthfcc.com

Contact info

Ph: (515) 964-9966
802 SE Oralabor Road
Suite 121
Ankeny, IA 50021

Location

South of Super Wal-Mart next to Subway and Greenberg's Jewelers

See the Contact Us page for a map to our office

Office Hours

M / Tu / Th: 8:00am-12:00pm, 2:00pm-6:00pm
W: 7:00am-11:00am
Call ahead for availability.

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