Pediatric diarrhea is a group of diseases mainly characterized by increased frequency and change in stool consistency. It can be accompanied by symptoms such as fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, and varying degrees of water, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalance. The pathogens can be caused by viruses (mainly human rotavirus and other enteric viruses), bacteria (pathogenic E. coli, enterotoxigenic E. coli, enterohemorrhagic E. coli, enteroinvasive E. coli, as well as Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, Vibrio cholerae, Yersinia, and Staphylococcus aureus), parasites, fungi, and so on. Infection outside the intestines, disturbance of intestinal flora caused by antibiotic abuse, allergies, improper feeding, and climate factors can also lead to the disease. It is a common illness in infants and young children under 2 years old.
Massage Zhongwan Acupoint
The child lies on his/her back, and the parent uses the palm to gently massage the Zhongwan acupoint in a clockwise direction for 1 minute.
Location: 4 cun above the navel (the midpoint between the xiphoid process and the line connecting the navel).
Procedure:
1. Rubbing Zhongwan: Rub the acupoint with fingertips or the base of the palm for about 2-5 minutes.
2. Kneading Zhongwan: Use the palm or four fingers to knead Zhongwan for about 5-10 minutes.
Indications: Diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, abdominal distension, loss of appetite, etc.
Massage Pishu Acupoint
The child lies on his/her back, and the parent places both palms on the navel, gently press and vibrate the Pishu acupoint for 1 minute, then lift the palms suddenly. Repeat this pressing and releasing motion 5-10 times.
Acupoint: Pishu
Location: 1.5 cun below the lower edge of the 11th thoracic vertebra.
Procedure: Use both thumbs to rub the Pishu acupoint on both sides. Rub for about 1-3 minutes.
Indications: Diarrhea, malnutrition, loss of appetite, vomiting, weakness of limbs, etc.
Massage Tianshu Acupoint
Acupoint: Tianshu
Location: 2 cun beside the navel.
Procedure: Use the tips of the index and middle fingers to rub. Rub about 50 times.
Indications: Diarrhea, constipation, abdominal distension, dysentery, etc.
