Infants have delicate organs and poor digestion and absorption functions. They often experience "food stagnation" due to overeating, which manifests as loss of appetite, abdominal pain, bloating, belching, acid reflux, nausea, and vomiting. When these problems occur, parents can try using spinal massage to help regulate their children. Let's take a look at the correct technique for pediatric massage and spinal manipulation.
Correct Technique for Pediatric Massage and Spinal Manipulation
The area to be massaged is the spine, from the first vertebrae to the sacrum, forming a straight line. When performing the massage, have the child lie face down on an adult's body or on a bed, exposing the entire back. The masseur stands behind the child and, along both sides of the spine, starts from the coccyx and uses the thumb and index finger to gently pinch and lift the skin upwards along the spine. While pinching and lifting, simultaneously twist the fingers to push upwards, but do not release the skin. Continue pinching until reaching the location of the posterior neck acupuncture point.
The Purpose of Spinal Manipulation
As the name suggests, spinal manipulation therapy involves manipulating the spine to massage the meridians on both sides of the child's spine. This helps regulate yin and yang, smooth the meridians, and promote blood circulation, thereby playing a role in treating and preventing pediatric diseases.
The Principles of Spinal Manipulation Therapy
During spinal manipulation, the Governing Vessel and the Bladder Meridian on both sides of the spine are affected. These two meridians can regulate the five viscera and six bowels, strengthen the spleen and stomach, so spinal manipulation can enhance a child's appetite and digestion.
Indications and Contraindications for Pediatric Massage and Spinal Manipulation
Indications: malnutrition, indigestion, diarrhea, rickets, anorexia, pediatric health care.
Contraindications: acute infectious diseases, bleeding disorders, broken skin, severely weakened children, severe heart, liver, kidney diseases.
Precautions for Spinal Manipulation
1. When performing spinal manipulation, consider the child's age. Only perform spinal manipulation when the child can roll over and lie prone, otherwise there may be a risk of twisting or suffocation.
2. During the process of spinal manipulation, if there is severe qi and blood stagnation or muscle stiffness in certain areas, the child may experience pain and resist the manipulation. Do not release the hand that is pinching the skin because of the child's resistance, but you can pause and let the child relieve the pain before continuing.
3. When performing spinal manipulation, the operator's nails must be trimmed short and smooth to avoid scratching the child's skin.
4. Before performing spinal manipulation, gently massage the child's back to help them relax. Apply a small amount of powder or lotion to the area to be manipulated. This can reduce the pain of the manipulation and make it easier for the child to accept.
