The acronym in KISS Syndrome stands for Kinematic Imbalances due to Suboccipital Strain. This dysfunction of the cervical spine in infants can cause inability of the muscles to function properly. It also causes mobility imbalances and asymmetry in body development.
Factors that contribute to KISS Syndrome
Strain to the cervical spine in infants is often caused by certain positions of the baby in the womb or positioning of the head during child birth. Multiple fetuses (twins, triplets) can also cause occipital strain from overcrowding. Particularly difficult child birth, prolonged child birth, or births that require the use of tools for extraction can also contribute to KISS Syndrome.
Signs and Symptoms
Infants with KISS Syndrome will often display a head tilt (torticollis) to one side or difficulty bending the head to one side. In some cases the cervical dysfunction isn’t apparent and it may take a skilled evaluation to detect the problem. Many other signs and symptoms of KISS Syndrome include:
- Preferred side when sleeping
- Poor motor movement on one side of the body
- Inability to hold the head up at 3 months of age
- Scoliosis in the cervical spine
- Unable to lie on their back
- Excessive head extension
- Flat head on one side
- Asymmetry of arm and leg movement or posture
- Colic or excessive crying with no reason
- asymmetrical development of hips
- Difficulty latching with nursing
- Crying or discomfort with repositioning
Treatments for KISS Syndrome and Chiropractic
Chiropractic care is safe and beneficial for infants and children. After a full evaluation, chiropractic adjustments can help reduce the cervical strain and help restore proper function of the spine and nervous system. Studies show that KISS Syndrome treated with chiropractic adjustments can reduce the duration of symptoms and the need for physical therapy. Parents often reports that the infant sleeps and eats better after just one or two treatments.
If you are concerned that your infant is showing signs and symptoms of KISS Syndrome, chiropractic care can help. Contact the office at Silver Chiropractic and Wellness today to get scheduled.
