How Chiropractic Plays a Role in Oral Ties

Chiropractic & Oral Tissue Ties: What's the relationship?

written by Dr. Marilyn Campbell, DC

What if we told you that oral restrictions are a direct reflection of body tension? 

When a newborn is diagnosed with a “tie” it can directly affect the nervous system and the overall function— but it’s not just the mouth that needs to be assessed. 🧠

Overall body tone is determined by the nervous system

Did you know everyone has frena, or connective tissue "ties" that connect structures in the mouth to one another, and the state of the nervous system dictates how tense or tight your fascia is? If mom and baby are stuck in sympathetic mode (fight or flight), it can increase tension- not only creating oral restrictions but body tension as well.

If your little is experiencing:

• breastfeeding troubles
• high tone (tension) in their body
• low tone (floppy) in their body
• mouth breathing or open mouth while resting
• head is flexed forward and has tension when head is balanced over shoulders
• favoring one side or plagiocephaly (flat spots in the cranium)
• excessive crying on tummy time, during diaper changes, or in car seats/strollers

THE WHOLE BODY NEEDS TO BE ASSESSED!

Movement of the tongue and all supporting structures and tissues are a reflection that the whole body needs to be assessed! Babies need full movement of their entire body not only to breastfeed, but allow the baby to develop neurologically and physically with ease.

How can chiropractic care benefit?

Not only can chiropractic care remove any interference between the brain and the body, it allows dural tension to unwind while creating a relaxed physical body and balanced tone of oral tissues.

Here at Milestone, not only do we believe that a tie CAN cause a restriction within the tongue/mouth, but we truly believe that it is actually a FULL body restriction that is taking place. 

Our team believes that outcomes can only be maintained once the whole body is assessed and adaptable. This is why in our office, it’s NOT a “one size fits all approach” but a personalized care for our individuals in our space. 

Learn more about how chiropractic can improve breastfeeding outcomes and how it can improve overall growth + development in your little one by giving us a call at 615-396-8482 or check out our website here!