In the massage treatment of abdominal distension and pain in children, Zhongwan is a commonly used acupoint. Where exactly is the accurate location of Zhongwan in children? What are its functions?
Accurate location of Zhongwan in children
Zhongwan is located in the upper abdomen, along the midline, 4 inches above the center of the navel.
Functions of Zhongwan massage in children
Zhongwan massage can invigorate the spleen, nourish the stomach, and promote the downward flow of qi and water. It is mainly used to treat symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal distension, abdominal pain, poor appetite, belching, and food stagnation in children.
Massage techniques for Zhongwan in children
Rub the Zhongwan acupoint with fingertips or the base of the palm; knead the Zhongwan acupoint with the palm or four fingers; push from Zhongwan to the lower throat or from the throat to Zhongwan. This technique is also known as stomach pushing.
Rub 100-300 times; knead for 5 minutes; push 100-300 times.
Clinical applications of Zhongwan massage in children
1. Rubbing and kneading Zhongwan can invigorate the spleen and stomach, promote digestion, and is commonly used for diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal distension, abdominal pain, and poor appetite. It is often used in combination with rubbing Zusanli and pushing the Spleen meridian.
2. Stomach pushing from top to bottom is mainly used for gastric qi reversal, belching, and nausea; pushing from bottom to top has a record of inducing vomiting in children, but is rarely used in clinical practice.
Special massage technique for Zhongwan in children
Place the palm firmly on Zhongwan, with no movement between the palm and the acupoint, while the subcutaneous tissue is massaged with gradually increasing intensity. Rub and press the acupoint 100-200 times, and perform massage daily to alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal distension, and abdominal pain in children.
