Mandibular Asymmetry and Breastfeeding Problems: Experience From 11 Cases

Abstract

The authors review the experiences of 11 mother-infant pairs who had breastfeeding problems related to the infants' mandibular asymmetry. Lower jaw asymmetry is an early identifiable sign of torticollis, and a possible contributor to latch difficulties, nipple pain, and poor milk transfer. Pediatricians and lactation consultants should look for signs of lower jaw asymmetry combined with a preference for turning the head to one side in newborns who present with breastfeeding difficulties. By recognizing these anatomic irregularities early in the course of breastfeeding, pediatric health care providers will be able to treat breastfeeding problems promptly and proactively. They will be able to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions for dehydration symptoms or a septic workup and will intervene quickly with the recommendation of breast pumping and complementary feeding if milk transfer is not occurring.

Chiropractic management of breast-feeding difficulties: a case report

“…Restriction of motion in the TMJ or hypertonicity of the muscles that control this joint can interfere with the infant's ability to latch on or to create a vacuum, and it can cause the infant to have pain during feeding. 6,15,19,10,11 In this case, a restriction of movement of the TMJ was present. Only after the motion of the TMJ completely restored was a complete recovery of normal breast-feeding function observed, again implying the importance of optimal function of the craniocervical system.…”

“…2,10,14,16 The working diagnosis of cervicocraniomandibular syndrome indicates the known relation between the jaw, cranium, and cervical spinal column. 6,[9][10][11] These 3 structures and their functions have a great influence on the course of breast-feeding. When a spinal or cranial lesion occurs, this can interfere with the nerve supply to anatomical components such as those of the suckling mechanism.…”

“…A reduction in cervical range of motion as a result of arthrogenic or muscular assault at birth can result in a baby not being able to latch on properly, simply because the baby cannot adapt a comfortable posture with the head and neck. 6,11 These discomforts can lead to the baby becoming restless and repeatedly having to latch on, which can create frustration for the mother. This all contributes to the vicious circle of mother's instinct, will power, emotional disappointment, and loss of control that nursing mothers frequently experience and that is important to break out of.…”

“…In the cranium, the palate, sphenoid frontal, parietal, and occipital bones had restricted motion. The working diagnosis was craniocervical syndrome, 6,[9][10][11] with possible secondary dysfunctional suckling.…”

Diagnosis and Chiropractic Treatment of Infant Headache Based on Behavioral Presentation and Physical Findings: A Retrospective Series of 13 Cases

“…5 It is thought that newborns frequently experience TMD relative to birth injury. 6 This may be a plausible mechanism of infant headache. Adults with TMD report increased headache upon wide opening of their mouth.…”