Common Infant Feeding Problems and Solutions

Get The Help You Need To Say Goodbye To Infant Feeding Problems

Feeding your baby can be a joyful experience filled with precious moments of bonding and nourishment. However, it’s not uncommon for infants to encounter feeding problems that can be frustrating for both parents and babies alike. Whether it’s reflux, latching difficulties, or other issues, understanding common infant feeding problems and what to do when you notice them is an important part of ensuring your little one thrives.

Keep reading to learn more about common infant feeding problems.

Understand Infant Feeding Problems So You Can Take Action

This comprehensive guide aims to shed light on the five most common infant feeding problems, their underlying causes, and effective solutions, including the potential benefits of pediatric physical therapy.

Reflux (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease – GERD)

• Reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and irritability in infants. Common symptoms include spitting up, excessive crying, arching of the back, and poor weight gain. Factors such as immature digestive systems, food allergies, and certain medications can contribute to reflux. Our pediatric physical therapists can help by teaching parents positioning techniques during and after feedings, as well as exercises to promote healthy digestion and reduce discomfort.

Latching Difficulties

• Latching is the process by which a baby attaches to the breast or bottle for feeding. Difficulties with latching can lead to inadequate milk transfer and frustration for both mother and baby. Causes can range from tongue-tie (a condition restricting tongue movement) to anatomical variations in the baby’s mouth. We can assess the baby’s oral motor skills and provide guidance on latching techniques and exercises to improve suckling and swallowing.

Oral Motor Dysfunction

• Oral motor dysfunction refers to difficulties with coordinating the muscles involved in sucking, swallowing, and chewing. This can manifest as problems with bottle or breastfeeding, gagging, choking, or refusing certain textures of food. Causes can include neurological conditions, premature birth, or developmental delays. Our PTs can evaluate the baby’s oral motor skills and design personalized therapy programs to improve muscle strength, coordination, and feeding efficiency.

Food Aversions or Sensitivities

• Some infants develop aversions or sensitivities to certain foods, leading to feeding difficulties and nutritional deficiencies. These aversions can be triggered by allergies, negative feeding experiences, or sensory processing issues. Our pediatric PTs collaborate with dieticians and occupational therapists to create a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both the physical and sensory aspects of feeding challenges to help the baby develop positive associations with food.

Failure to Thrive

• Failure to thrive (FTT) is a term used to describe inadequate weight gain or growth in infants. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including underlying medical conditions, feeding difficulties, or psychosocial stressors. We work to assess the baby’s feeding patterns, identify potential barriers to growth, and implement interventions to promote healthy weight gain and development.

Help With Infant Feeding Problems At Skills on the Hill

At your first appointment, one of our skilled pediatric physical therapists will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your baby’s feeding skills, including oral motor assessment, observation of feeding patterns, and review of their medical history.

Then, your therapist will develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your baby’s specific needs that may include elements like:

• Hands-on therapy techniques to improve muscle strength and coordination
• Positioning and latching guidance for breastfeeding or bottle feeding
• Exercises to promote healthy digestion and reduce reflux
• Strategies for introducing new textures and flavors
• Education and support for parents to implement therapy techniques at home

If your infant is experiencing feeding difficulties, don’t hesitate to seek help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and learn how we can help your little one thrive.