Not-So Silent Reflux
Reflux is a common concern for many parents, often making its first appearance between 8–12 weeks of age. While it can be stressful to manage, understanding the signs and potential impacts can go a long way in helping your baby feel more comfortable and supported.
What Is Infant Reflux?
Infant reflux occurs when the contents of the stomach flow back into the esophagus, leading to frequent spitting up. It can also present with signs like:
Arching through the back
General fussiness—especially after feedings or when lying flat
Reflux typically peaks around 4 months of age and often begins to improve once solid foods are introduced.
But here’s something many parents don’t realize: reflux can actually lead to structural compensations in your baby’s body. If left unaddressed, some of these compensations can begin showing up as early as 2 months old.
Early Signs to Watch For
Keep an eye out for these red flags, especially if your baby has known or suspected reflux:
Excessive spitting up beyond what seems typical
Arching of the mid-back (thoracic spine)
Discomfort when lying flat on their back
A preference to look or lean to the left
Favoring one hand (e.g., only using the right hand to play past 2 months)
How the Body Compensates
When babies experience consistent discomfort, they often make subconscious adjustments to cope. These structural compensations can include:
Feeding challenges due to tension or positioning issues
Atypical crawling patterns (scooting, army-crawling, etc.)
Torticollis (tight neck muscles leading to head tilt)
Constipation caused by physical muscular tension
Irritability or trouble self-soothing
“Air-planing” arms (arms flaring out behind them during tummy time or while being held)
Delayed milestones, such as rolling over or sitting independently
What Can You Do?
If you’re noticing any of these signs, there are several ways to support your baby’s development:
Encourage weight bearing through the arms during tummy time and play
Focus on midline play (bringing hands together in front of the body) to build coordination and balance
Encourage playing with feet to help round the spine and develop core strength
Schedule a check in with your Chiropractor — at FLOW Chiropractic we specialize in gentle care for infants and children and can create a personalized treatment plan just for your baby
We understand how overwhelming it can feel when your baby is uncomfortable or not meeting milestones. At FLOW Chiropractic, our goal is to help your child feel better and thrive!
