Breastfeeding Issues - Part 2
By: Dra. Ana Garraton
During Breastfeeding Issues Part 1, we discussed how nipple confusion can make it difficult for infants to breastfeed and alternative methods that can be implemented. It was also mentioned that other issues might include TMJ dysfunction.
The temporomandibular joints are two articulations that connect your lower jaw to your skull. As one opens his or her mouth, the jaw rotates around the head of the mandible and slides slightly forward. A dysfunction is present when these motions are compromised by issues like misalignments or interferences.
While breastfeeding, babies are able to develop proper TMJ bone growth and muscle movements. Additionally, as they latch they increase their lower jaw sagittal growth. With this said, one can predict that TMJ weakness can hinder the breastfeeding process. One of the most common causes of TMJ dysfunction is birth trauma. This may happen with vaginal birth or C- section birth! During the delivery process, the infant's cranium and neck experience various stressors. The skull becomes compressed, which may cause a displacement and shifting of the bones.
Just like with nipple confusion, TMJ dysfunction may benefit from chiropractic care. A chiropractor can gently perform a sustained contact adjustment to realign the bone and these two joints. This will help restore proper TMJ function, decrease irritation, allow for improved tongue coordination and assist the infant with breastfeeding.
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