Evidence-based nursing practices in relieving colic infants

Abstract

Infantile colic is defined as restlessness and crying spells that have been present for more than three weeks, at least three days a week, exceeding three hours a day, and cannot be explained for any other reason. It is a common reason for infants to be brought to the physician. Despite numerous suggested risk factors, its exact etiology remains unknown. There is no definitive method for treating infantile colic that can be considered both effective and safe. This condition causes anxiety for families and pediatricians alike, as the crying and restlessness in infants can suggest a range of potential underlying issues, including infections, gastrointestinal problems, trauma, nutritional issues, drug reactions, neurological causes, and cardiovascular diseases. Continuous crying in a baby can cause parents to feel frustrated, and inadequate, lose concentration and patience, fear harming the baby, and stop breastfeeding early. In this section, we discuss methods used to reduce the symptoms of infantile colic, such as massage, manipulative therapies (such as chiropractic, osteopathy, cranial osteopathy, craniosacral therapy, and cranial manipulation), dietary changes, and the use of probiotics and prebiotics (synbiotics). Additionally, parent education programs offer a range of techniques to help parents care for their infants. These techniques include calming strategies for crying infants, understanding infants' needs, general care recommendations such as sleep and feeding advice, stress reduction, and empathic counseling for parents. Understanding infants' needs is crucial for providing appropriate care. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.