by Amy Rothenberg ND

An adorable and bright 11-year-old girl, Laila, was brought to see me for the treatment of severe gastritis. About a year before our first visit, she had sustained an injury to her shoulder, though neither she nor her parents remembered exactly how. She had come home from school complaining of pain and, several days later, was taken to the pediatrician who recommended keeping an eye on it.

After almost a month of pain and discomfort, as well as x-ray diagnostic work and visits to a chiropractor and an osteopathic physician, no gross physical abnormalities had been detected. Chiropractic adjustments, osteopathic manipulation, massage, and other forms of bodywork were tried to no avail.

In due time, Laila was prescribed a regimen of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, which she took faithfully and which took the edge off the pain, but did not totally relieve it. After several months on these medications, Laila began to complain of stomachaches. She was diagnosed with gastro-esophageal reflux. Her family physician recommended that she discontinue the anti-inflammatory medicines and take some different drugs for the acid reflux.