Amy,

I have a couple of experiences with chiropractic treatment for babies.
Firstly, at least here in Australia, you need to find a chiropractor who
regularly treats babies - not all do. I feel that you can't lose anything
by trying this - it is non-invasive, etc. At worst, it just won't do
anything - at best, you may find this baby's neck is right out of alignment
and can be treated. This may well cause unsettled feeding behaviour if baby
is uncomfortable. This would not surprise me given the delivery experience
you describe.

I would definitely get this mum to throw away the shield. It sounds like
the classic case of baby not latching on to it properly, so milk supply
goes down and down, as baby is not draining what is there. Now maybe he has
associated the breast with frustration - no food even if he works for a
bit, as well as possible discomfort. Mum needs to pump to stimulate supply
and in the meantime get it into bub the best way possible. I wouldn't be
fussy - even a bottle if necessary. IMO I don't think this will make any
difference at this stage. Baby needs to be getting more food, most probably
with added formula. Why soy?

If she does try the chiropractor, just make sure she doesn't let on to her
baby's Dr until you see if it does any good. If it works, this may be a
good way to educate him and he may be open to referring other mothers. This
has worked here where I live.

Joy Anderson IBCLC, NMAA Breastfeeding Counsellor
Perth, Western Australia
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