For years, I have written about the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and reflux. Now the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) will have its day.
A four-month-old presented with reflux and breastfeeding issues. He had a zero-second brain cycle with fascial strain in his neck and both TMJs.
The right TMJ strain extended into his right nasolacrimal duct area causing some blockage. He sometimes had the goopy-eyed look, with the lacrimal fluid unable to drain down into his sinuses. There was also the expected fascial strain in his stomach and LES area, apparently causing the reflux.
The first visit went well with his brain cycle opening nicely. The LES released along with his neck and TMJ areas.
On the second visit, mom said the reflux was still present even though, clinically, his LES area felt relaxed. I had to go to plan B and check out his UES.
The UES is a muscular sphincter at the top of the esophagus. This valve prevents food and liquid from entering the windpipe and air from entering the esophagus. During swallowing, the UES relaxes to allow food and liquid to pass into the esophagus and then contracts to prevent reflux.
Extensive strain here was contributing to his reflux. Wherever there is muscle tissue as in this sphincter, the fascial web is always in play.
Along with the epiglottis, we often take this critical survival area of breathing and digestion for granted. I expect the UES to normalize with further therapy, bringing forth a happy baby.
When an infant presents with reflux, please keep both esophageal sphincters in mind. The human body is designed to function beautifully as long as the fascial web remains loose.
In a perfect world, he would have had this work at birth. He would have left the hospital breathing well, breastfeeding well, digesting well, pooping well, and napping well. Happy Baby = Happy Mom = Happy Family.
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