Spring is the season when respiratory diseases are more prevalent, especially in children whose respiratory systems are not yet fully developed and have weaker constitution and resistance. Along with medical treatment, children's coughs can be treated and maintained through self-massage and healthcare at home.
Acupoint massage mainly stimulates acupoints to have anti-inflammatory, antitussive, and expectorant effects. The main acupoints include Tian Tu (located in the depression at the midpoint of the clavicle), the chest, the outer side of both arms (along the intercostal space to the elbow joint), Tian Zong (equivalent to the midpoint of the scapula), and the back. The specific steps are as follows.
Step 1: The child lies supine, with the parent on their right side. The parent's right hand, with the fingertips slightly apart, uses the ridged surface of the fingertips as the focus point to perform gentle, horizontal pushing along the child's ribs on both sides. This should be done for 3-5 minutes with a gentle force.
Step 2: Use the fingertip of the middle finger to knead Tian Tu on the child for 10-30 seconds, avoiding excessive force to prevent coughing or even choking. The parent's left hand holds the child's hand, and the right thumb rubs and pushes the outer side of the child's arms on both sides until the local skin becomes slightly red. A small amount of powder or oil can be applied first to prevent skin abrasions.
Step 3: The child lies prone, and the parent's left hand supports the baby's chest to prevent blockage of the mouth and nose. The palm of the right hand rubs and pushes the child's back until the local skin becomes slightly red, focusing on the two scapular areas (where the two lung lobes are located). Knead the two Tian Zong acupoints, which have a lung moisturizing effect. Use the base of the palm to rub and push the thoracic segment of the child's spine (between the two scapulas) for about 3-5 minutes to enhance the respiratory system's immune function.
Firstly, it is important to have a clear diagnosis and follow the doctor's treatment and guidance to consolidate the therapeutic effect. Blindly performing self-treatment when coughing occurs should be avoided as children's conditions can develop rapidly and change in various ways. Close attention should be paid to observe changes in the child's condition and overall health. Children should drink warm water more often, consume less cold drinks, beverages, cream, fried and grilled foods. If the child is breastfed, the mother should keep warm and also be cautious with the aforementioned foods. On the basis of ensuring nutrition, the diet should be light, with less consumption of green vegetables and lettuce. It is appropriate to consume radish soup and lung and stomach soup. Regular exercise should be encouraged to enhance physical fitness and immune function.
