The digestive system does not operate independently of the nervous system. The vagus nerve — the main nerve pathway between the brainstem and the digestive organs — plays a central role in coordinating the movement and function of the gastrointestinal tract, including the lower esophageal sphincter that normally keeps stomach contents from flowing back up. When there is tension or restriction in the upper cervical spine or the craniosacral structures around the brainstem, it may affect the function of the vagus nerve and the signals it sends to the digestive system. Pediatric chiropractic evaluation at Beacon Clinic of Chiropractic looks at whether this kind of structural picture is present in a baby with reflux symptoms.
It is important to be clear about what this means and what it does not mean. A chiropractic structural evaluation is not a diagnostic test for reflux, and chiropractic care is not a treatment for GERD. What it offers is an assessment of the nervous system's structural environment — whether there are spinal or craniosacral restrictions that may be affecting how the nervous system is functioning. Dr. Bronstein at Beacon Clinic discusses this distinction honestly with Grover Beach families at the outset of every consultation, so that the family understands what the evaluation is looking for and what chiropractic care can and cannot offer for their baby's specific situation.
