Living so close to John Wayne Airport, we understand how important comfortable air travel is for Anaheim families. Whether you’re flying to visit grandparents or heading out on that long-awaited Disney Cruise, everyone deserves to enjoy the experience without pain.
Why Little Ones Struggle More With Airplane Ear
Young children have narrower Eustachian tubes than adults. These tiny passages connect the middle ear to the back of the throat and regulate air pressure. When they don’t function properly, pressure can’t equalize during altitude changes.
Here’s what many parents don’t realize: upper cervical misalignments can interfere with proper Eustachian tube drainage. The nerves and muscles that control these tubes originate in the upper neck. When subluxations exist in this area, fluid drainage becomes compromised. That creates the perfect environment for pressure buildup and infection susceptibility.
Preparing Your Family for Comfortable Flights
Schedule a chiropractic adjustment before you travel. We check the upper cervical spine and ensure proper alignment to support optimal ear drainage. Parents may want to bring their children in a few days before departure, giving the body time to respond to the adjustment.
During the flight, encourage swallowing during takeoff and landing. Nursing infants or giving toddlers a bottle helps tremendously. Older children can chew gum, sip water frequently, or eat snacks during these critical pressure change periods (just avoid anything too salty that might cause dehydration).
The yawning technique works well for kids who can follow instructions. Have them fake big yawns or blow their noses gently with their mouths closed. These actions help open the Eustachian tubes naturally.
When to Postpone Travel
If your little one has an active ear infection or significant congestion, consider rescheduling if possible. Flying with existing inflammation makes pressure equalization nearly impossible and can worsen the infection.
However, mild seasonal allergies or minor congestion don’t necessarily mean canceling plans. A pre-flight adjustment combined with proper hydration often provides enough support for comfortable travel.
The Long-Term Solution
Regular chiropractic care addresses the root cause rather than just managing (really masking) symptoms. Children who suffer from chronic ear infections and flight anxiety may find relief when consistent adjustments correct their spinal misalignments.
Your family vacations should be filled with happy memories, not painful flights and worried parents. Chiropractic care helps your child’s body function optimally so they can handle the physical stresses of air travel naturally.
Help Your Family Fly Comfortably
Planning a trip from John Wayne Airport? Contact Majer Chiropractic Wellness Center today to prepare your children for comfortable, pain-free flights!
Prepare for Pain-Free Flights