In this episode of Behind the Latch Margaret Salty sits down with Dr. Jessica Leighton, a renowned chiropractor specializing in pediatric and maternal care, to explore the role of chiropractic in supporting breastfeeding dyads. Dr. Leighton provides an in-depth look at how chiropractic adjustments can help address common breastfeeding challenges such as latch issues, poor milk transfer, and musculoskeletal problems in both mothers and infants. Whether you’re an experienced IBCLC or new to the field, this episode offers valuable insights into integrating chiropractic care as part of a holistic approach to breastfeeding support.

Visit Dr. Jessica Leighton's website: www.drjessicaleighton.com

Key Points Covered:

1: Introduction to Chiropractic Care and Breastfeeding

Margaret and Dr. Leighton introduce chiropractic care as a complementary approach to supporting breastfeeding. They discuss how chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate physical barriers to effective breastfeeding, such as tension or misalignment in infants that can impact latch and feeding efficiency. Dr. Leighton emphasizes the importance of considering musculoskeletal health in the overall breastfeeding plan.

2: Common Breastfeeding Challenges Addressed by Chiropractic Care

Dr. Leighton outlines specific breastfeeding challenges that can benefit from chiropractic intervention, including:

• Latch difficulties due to infant alignment or tension.
• Maternal discomfort or pain that may hinder breastfeeding.
• How chiropractic care can support a smoother breastfeeding journey through improved maternal posture and alignment.

3: Safety and Efficacy of Pediatric Chiropractic Care

The episode delves into the safety aspects of chiropractic care for infants, supported by evidence and studies:

• Cassidy D, Boyle E et al. (2008): A study on the risk of vertebrobasilar stroke and chiropractic care.
• Miller et al. (2008): Review of adverse effects in pediatric chiropractic care.
• Vohra et al. (2007): Systematic review of adverse events associated with pediatric spinal manipulation.

Dr. Leighton reassures listeners with research findings showing a high level of safety in pediatric chiropractic care, with most adverse effects being minor and self-limiting.

4: Finding the Right Chiropractor for Breastfeeding Support

Dr. Leighton provides guidance on finding a qualified chiropractor, recommending directories such as:

• American Chiropractic Association Council on Pediatrics
• International Chiropractic Pediatric Association

Note: These directories are great starting points, but some chiropractors, including Dr. Leighton, may choose not to be listed due to fees or organizational preferences. Always consider local recommendations and personal consultations to find the best fit for your needs.

Conclusion:

Integrating chiropractic care into breastfeeding support can offer a unique and effective approach to overcoming breastfeeding challenges. By understanding how to work with chiropractors, IBCLCs can enhance their practice and provide more comprehensive care to breastfeeding families. Tune in next week for more expert insights and practical strategies from the world of lactation science.

References:

• Cassidy D, Boyle E et al. (2008). Risk of vertebrobasilar stroke and chiropractic care: results of a population-based case-control and case-crossover study. Spine, 33(4S): S176-183.
• Miller JE, Benfield K. (2008). Adverse effects of spinal manipulation therapy in children younger than 3 years: a retrospective study in a chiropractic teaching clinic. Jour Manip Physiol Ther, 31(6):419-422.
• Vohra S, Johnston BC, Cramer K, Humphreys K. (2007). Adverse events associated with pediatric spinal manipulation: a systematic review. Pediatrics, 119:275-283.

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Connect with Us:

• Have questions or want to suggest a topic? Reach out to Margaret at margaretsalty.com or connect on social media:
• Instagram: @margaretsalty
• Facebook: Margaret Salty

Don't forget to share this episode with fellow IBCLCs or students who could benefit from learning about the intersection of chiropractic care and breastfeeding support!

Credits:

• Hosted by: Margaret Salty
• Guest: Dr. Jessica Leighton
• Music by: The Magnifiers, "My Time Traveling Machine"

Hashtags and Keywords:

#IBCLC #ChiropracticCare #BreastfeedingSupport #LactationConsultant #LactationMentor #EvidenceBasedPractice