Otitis media is a term for inflammation of the middle ear. This is usually due to a buildup of fluid in the Eustachian tube that drains fluid from the ear. There is a very small muscle that attaches to the tube and is controlled by a nerve that originates in the brainstem and upper spinal cord. Dysfunction in the joints of the upper cervical spine may lead to dysfunctional nerve activity that can result in tension in the muscle. This muscle tension may cause restriction of movement in the tube, preventing drainage and causing build-up of the fluid. As the fluid remains stagnant, it can cause inflammation, pain and eventually infection.

Treatment

Treatment of otitis media consists mainly of chiropractic manipulation of the joints of the upper cervical spine. This is to restore normal function to the joints and to facilitate healthy nerve function, decreasing tension in the muscle. This will allow fluid movement and drainage of the tube. ART is then used in order to maintain proper movement of the soft tissues that may restrict movement of the joints of the cervical spine.