Cry babies: A framework for chiropractic care

SummaryWith 21% of parents taking their excessively crying infant to a healthcare professional, chiropractors are often selected to treat these infants. The personal, family and social costs of this crying syndrome are high, yet there is no agreed treatment protocol. A large number of studies have been aimed at providing useful interventions, but no “cure” has been demonstrated. With some evidential backing, chiropractors are well-placed to provide therapy for this syndrome. A seven-step process of thorough history (including ante-natal and natal factors), administration of depression index to the mother, examination of the infant to rule out illness, differential diagnosis, specific treatment plan for specific disorders, therapeutic trial and reassurance to the parents provides a rational framework for appropriate chiropractic care of this enigmatic and problematic condition.