Colic & Reflux

Few things are harder than a baby who can’t be soothed. Hours of crying, arching, spitting up, and fussing after feeds can leave the whole family exhausted and wondering what’s wrong. If you’ve tried everything and still feel stuck, you’re not alone. At Serene Chiropractic in Worcester, MA, we gently look at how your baby’s body is moving and whether tension may be adding to their discomfort.

What’s going on?

Colic is usually described as long stretches of crying in an otherwise healthy baby, often in the late afternoon or evening. Reflux is when milk comes back up from the stomach, which is common in infants and usually improves with age. The exact causes of colic aren’t fully understood. Digestion, gas, feeding, a still-developing nervous system, and physical discomfort may all play a part.

Common contributors

Feeding & gas

Swallowing air during feeds or a shallow latch can lead to gas and discomfort after eating.

Tension & positioning

Tension in the neck, back, or belly can make it hard for some babies to settle or get comfortable lying down.

A developing system

A baby’s digestive and nervous systems are still maturing, which is why many of these issues ease with time.

How can we help?

We start by talking with you about feeding, sleep, and crying patterns, then gently assess how your baby’s neck, spine, and body move. Care uses very light, fingertip pressure, with no cracking. We also share simple positioning and soothing tips you can use at home. Research on chiropractic care for colic is limited and mixed, so we see it as one gentle piece of support alongside your pediatrician, not a replacement.

When to see a doctor first

Call your pediatrician right away or seek emergency care if your baby:

-Has forceful or projectile vomiting, or vomit that is green or bloody
-Has blood in their stool
-Has a fever, especially if they are under 3 months old
-Isn’t feeding well, has fewer wet diapers, or isn’t gaining weight
-Is very sleepy, limp, or has trouble breathing

Crying that sounds different than usual, or comes with other symptoms, should always be checked by your pediatrician.

Calmer days start with understanding your baby

Gentle chiropractic care may be a helpful part of your baby’s support. Learn more about how we care for kids.

Explore pediatric chiropractic

Still have questions?

Learn what to expect at your first visit,
which insurance plans we work with,
or meet our providers.