Good Morning Dr. Hollander,

OK, what can you tell me about viral ear infections???

-Teresa.

Good Morning Teresa!

Good to hear from you. It would seem you or someone you know is suffering from a viral ear infection? I'm sorry to hear that.

On a nutritional level, viruses in general have been known to be inhibited by the Amino Acid L-Lysine, and also the mineral Zinc. You might look for Zinc "Picolinate," which is a more potent and better absorbed form of Zinc. Large amounts of water should also be consumed when fighting a virus.

Many patients have experienced successful management of their ear infections from a chiropractor. When dealing with ear infections, chiropractors will generally focus on the upper cervical spine and even the occiput. By adjusting these "propriceptive rich" joints, the immune system receives a strong boost. Upper cervical adjustments also help the eustachian tube open and drain easier. Some chiropractors, myself included, like to adjust the ear itself. While funny to look at as your chiropractor grabs your earlobe, you will experience a "cavitation" in the ear, which is believed to be the ossicles of the ear itself getting adjusted. Most patients experience better ear drainage and faster recovery from these adjustments.

One of my first patients in the parker student clinic was a very adorable 3-year-old girl with a nasty ear infection. All it took was a few adjustments to her Atlas and she healed right up!

I hope that helps, Mad Chiro Luv, -Darren, DC