When a child has a fever, using massage therapy can help reduce the fever. There is a specific acupoint on the child's hand called "Liu Fu" that has a special effect in reducing fever. Let's take a look at the location of this acupoint for pediatric massage therapy.
Location of Liu Fu
Liu Fu is located on the ulnar side of the forearm, along a straight line from the inner side of the wrist crease (Yin Pool) to the end of the elbow crease.
Massage Technique for Liu Fu
One hand holds the child's wrist to stabilize it, while the thumb, index finger, or middle finger of the other hand uses the fingertip to apply pressure from the elbow crease towards the wrist crease, repeating the motion 100-500 times. This technique is called "Tui Liu Fu" or "Pushing Liu Fu".
Functions of Liu Fu
Pushing Liu Fu can help clear heat, cool the blood, and detoxify. This technique has a cold and cooling nature and is commonly used to treat diseases caused by warm pathogenic factors invading the blood, as well as conditions such as internal heat accumulation, high fever, restlessness, thirst, parotitis, and poisoning.
Clinical Applications of Pushing Liu Fu
This technique can be used alone or in combination with the "Pushing San Guan" method, which is known for its strong cooling and heating effects. If the child has weak Qi and is slightly sensitive to cold, "Pushing San Guan" can be used; if the child has high fever and restlessness, "Pushing Liu Fu" is more appropriate. The combination of both techniques can help balance the Yin and Yang energies.
Precautions for Pediatric Massage Therapy on Liu Fu
Liu Fu acupoint has a cold and cooling nature, and it is effective in clearing the Ying and Blood. However, if the child usually has loose stools and suffers from spleen deficiency and diarrhea, this technique should be used with caution.
