Why To Have Your Newborn’s Palate & Gag Reflex Checked
Seeing a newborn chiropractor—especially one trained in pediatric chiropractic care—may help with a sensitive gag reflex by addressing underlying issues in the baby's nervous system, cranial alignment, and oral function. Here's how:
1. Nervous System Regulation
A hypersensitive gag reflex may stem from an overactive or dysregulated nervous system—especially in babies who had:
A difficult birth (e.g., C-section, vacuum/forceps delivery)
Tension in the neck, jaw, or cranial bones
Feeding struggles or signs of sensory overload
Chiropractic adjustments can help support better balance in the autonomic nervous system, shifting the baby toward a more “rest-and-digest” state rather than “fight-or-flight.”
2. Cranial and Oral Tension
Tension in the cranial bones, jaw (TMJ), tongue, or neck muscles may affect how the baby swallows or responds to oral input, triggering a strong or poorly coordinated gag reflex.
A chiropractor may:
Use gentle craniosacral techniques to release tension
Check for oral restrictions (like tongue-tie or lip-tie)
Help balance muscle tone around the mouth and throat
3. Feeding Mechanics
If the gag reflex is making breastfeeding or bottle feeding difficult, a chiropractor might:
Work with lactation consultants or feeding therapists
Help improve the baby's suck-swallow-breathe coordination
Enhance jaw and neck mobility, which supports more efficient feeding
4. Sensory Integration
Babies with a hypersensitive oral system might gag even with gentle input. Chiropractors trained in sensory or reflex integration may use:
Gentle stimulation techniques
Positional therapy
Parent-guided exercises to help desensitize the gag reflex gradually
Important Notes:
Pediatric chiropractic care should always be gentle, non-invasive, and specific to infants.
It’s best to see a chiropractor with specialized training in infant care, often through organizations like the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA).
Chiropractors do not diagnose or treat medical disorders like cleft palate or serious neurological issues, but they may work collaboratively with pediatricians, ENT specialists, SLPs, or feeding therapists.