How Chiropractic Care Can Support Babies with Tongue and Lip Ties
- Ozark Family Chiropractic
- May 29
- 2 min read
Tongue and lip ties are increasingly recognized as common causes of breastfeeding challenges in infants. These oral restrictions—technically known as ankyloglossia (tongue tie) and lip tie—can make it difficult for babies to latch properly, resulting in frustration for both baby and parent. While many families consider revision procedures like frenectomies, one important and often overlooked component of care is chiropractic support.
At Ozark Family Chiropractic, we specialize in gentle, neurologically focused chiropractic care for infants, and we’ve seen firsthand how chiropractic adjustments can help babies with tongue and lip ties thrive—both before and after revision procedures.
What Are Tongue and Lip Ties?
Tongue and lip ties occur when the connective tissue (frenulum) under the tongue or lip is too tight, thick, or short. This can restrict the normal range of motion needed for effective feeding, speech, and oral development.
Signs your baby might have a tongue or lip tie include:
Difficulty latching during breastfeeding
Clicking sounds while nursing
Gassiness or colic-like symptoms
Slow weight gain
Prolonged feeding sessions
Reflux-like symptoms
Maternal nipple pain or damage
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Infants with oral restrictions often develop tension in their jaw, neck, and cranial structures as they work harder to nurse or compensate for limited movement. This tension can contribute to discomfort, feeding issues, and inefficient muscle use. Chiropractic care helps by:
1. Improving Nervous System Function
Gentle chiropractic adjustments help restore balance in the nervous system. For babies, this can mean better coordination of the suck-swallow-breathe reflex, improved digestion, and a more relaxed state for feeding.
2. Releasing Muscular and Fascial Tension
Babies often develop tightness in the jaw, neck, and upper back from compensating for oral restrictions. Chiropractic care helps release these patterns, allowing for more effective latching and easier feeding.
3. Supporting Structural Alignment
Proper alignment of the spine and cranium ensures the baby’s body is functioning optimally. Cranial adjustments, in particular, can be highly beneficial for babies with tongue and lip ties, as they support the mobility of the cranial bones involved in sucking and swallowing.
4. Enhancing Outcomes After Revision
For families choosing to have a frenectomy (tie release), chiropractic care can support better outcomes by preparing the body beforehand and promoting healing afterward. Pre-revision care helps reduce compensatory tension, and post-revision care supports the body’s integration of new movement patterns.
A Collaborative Approach
We work closely with lactation consultants, pediatric dentists, and bodyworkers to ensure your baby receives comprehensive, holistic care. Every baby is unique, and our goal is to support your family’s feeding journey in the gentlest, most effective way possible.
What to Expect at Ozark Family Chiropractic
Our office is designed with comfort and care in mind—for both babies and parents. Infant adjustments are incredibly gentle—often using no more pressure than you would use to check the ripeness of a peach. We take time to understand your baby’s needs, collaborate with your care team, and guide you through each step of the process.
If you suspect your baby may have a tongue or lip tie, or if you're preparing for a revision, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation with us today to learn how chiropractic care can support your baby’s comfort, function, and development.
or call 479-323-1010
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