How a Baby’s Developing Cranium Affects Eustachian Tube DrainageAnd How Osteopathy Can Help With Otitis Media

A baby’s cranium is constantly changing. The bones are soft, the sutures are open, and the base of the skull is still shaping. At this stage, the Eustachian tube—which drains fluid from the middle ear—is shorter, more horizontal, and easily affected by pressure from nearby bones and soft tissues. Even small twists or tightness around the temporal bone, jaw, or base of the skull can change how well the tube drains. When fluid doesn’t drain properly, it collects behind the eardrum, making babies much more likely to develop ear infections.

Osteopaths who are trained in treating the structure of the body, especially the cranium, can gently improve the position and motion of the bones around the Eustachian tube. By reducing tension and restoring better alignment, the tube can open and drain more effectively. This helps prevent fluid build-up and may reduce episodes of otitis media. If you want to deepen your understanding of these concepts and refine your pediatric assessment skills, you can explore the course at palmm.org/challenges.

Anatomical changes of the Eustachian tube that improve drainage

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