Pediatric massage therapy for constipation is a natural treatment method without any toxic side effects. It avoids the various drug toxic side effects that parents worry about and is a safe and effective treatment method. Furthermore, pediatric massage therapy for constipation is safe, effective, and produces quick results.
There are three common types of constipation in children: heat, Yin deficiency, and food stagnation. Based on the physiological characteristics of "excess liver and deficient spleen" and "delicate lungs" in children, the treatment of constipation in children should supplement deficiencies and purge excesses. The clinical approach should focus on supplementing deficiencies and promoting spleen health, facilitating qi movement and bowel movements. This can be achieved through oral Chinese herbal medicine or massage techniques.
Pediatric Massage Techniques for Constipation
Clearing the large intestine: The large intestine acupoint is located on the radial side of the index finger. During the massage, apply pressure from the metacarpophalangeal joint towards the fingertip, repeating this motion 100-300 times. This technique can treat constipation caused by stagnation in the intestines due to dampness, heat, diet, phlegm, and other factors, as well as abdominal pain.
Retreating the six viscera: The six viscera are located on the ulnar side of the forearm, extending from the Shenmen acupoint to the elbow in a straight line. Use the middle phalanx of the middle finger to apply pressure from the elbow joint to the base of the palm, repeating this motion 100-500 times. This technique can help promote bowel movements, relieve heat in the viscera, and alleviate symptoms such as distention, hardness, and dryness caused by excess Yangming fu organ.
Clearing liver fire: Locate the Xuehai acupoint (inner side of both knees) and massage it with both thumbs about 40 times.
Strengthening the spleen: The spleen meridian is located on the radial side of the thumb. During the massage, apply pressure from the tip of the thumb towards the base of the thumb, repeating this motion 300 times. This technique can regulate the spleen and stomach, strengthen their digestive functions.
Kneading the spine: From the first thoracic vertebra to the coccyx, knead upwards 30 times. This technique can balance Yin and Yang, regulate qi and blood, harmonize the organs, and promote the circulation of meridians and collaterals. It can be used for children with weak spleen and stomach. Symptoms include dry and hard stools, grain-like appearance, red face, body heat, bad breath, red lips, yellow urine, distention in the chest and hypochondria, reduced appetite, abdominal bloating, thick yellow tongue coating, and purple fingerprint color. Treatment should focus on promoting qi movement, clearing heat, and promoting bowel movements.
When performing pediatric massage therapy, it is important to diagnose and treat based on the specific conditions. It is recommended that parents go to a reputable hospital or seek guidance from a professional doctor for massage and other therapeutic activities to avoid delaying the child's condition. At the same time, it is important to note that while pediatric massage is suitable for some children, it is not suitable for those with the following conditions: burns, scalds, abrasions, lacerations, or scabies on the skin should not be massaged in the affected areas. Certain acute infectious diseases, injuries, fractures, acute infectious diseases, severe heart disease, liver disease, and other conditions are also not suitable for massage therapy.
