When nothing seems to help — a gentle approach worth trying
Colic is exhausting for the whole family. When your baby is inconsolably upset and nothing seems to work, it's worth looking at what the birth process may have introduced into their tiny spine and nervous system.
Even a normal, uncomplicated delivery involves significant compressive and rotational forces on an infant's head and neck. Assisted deliveries — forceps, vacuum, or prolonged pushing — increase those forces considerably. The result can be small misalignments or restrictions in the upper cervical spine that, while not visible on the outside, create nerve irritation that the baby can't communicate except by crying.
Dr. Steve adjusted his own grandson, Malakai, at just six days old — a routine check to give him the best start possible. That kind of early assessment is something he recommends for all newborns, not just those who are symptomatic.
Colic is typically diagnosed when a healthy infant cries for more than three hours a day, more than three days a week, for more than three weeks. Pediatricians often can't identify a clear cause, and many parents are simply told to wait it out. But an irritated nervous system — caused by tension in the upper cervical spine — can produce exactly this kind of persistent, inconsolable distress.
The vagus nerve, which runs through the neck and plays a major role in digestion, sleep regulation, and stress response, is particularly vulnerable to cervical tension. Restoring normal motion to the cervical spine can reduce that irritation and help the baby's nervous system settle.
Bringing in a colicky newborn can feel nerve-wracking. Dr. Steve understands that, and the first visit is calm and unhurried. He'll examine the infant's cervical spine and overall posture, explain exactly what he finds, and only proceed with care if there's something to address. Infant adjustments use extremely light pressure — parents who watch are often surprised by how gentle it is.
Some families notice a change within a visit or two. Others take longer. There are no guarantees with colic, but for many families this is the thing that finally makes a difference.
Colic often comes alongside other signs of cervical tension: difficulty latching on one side, a strong preference for turning the head one direction, or persistent tightness through the neck and shoulders. These are all worth mentioning at the first visit — they help paint a clearer picture of what's going on structurally.
The International Chiropractic Pediatric Association has published research on chiropractic care and infant colic.
Call us or request a new patient appointment. Dr. Steve will take the time to understand what’s going on before recommending anything.