TCM Paediatric Massage: What You Need to Know

Watching your baby struggle with a persistent cough, tummy troubles, or sleepless nights can be worrying. You want to help them feel better, but you're also cautious about giving them too much medicine. 

If you're looking for a gentle way to support your child's health and build their strength from within, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) paediatric massage (also known as Paediatric Tui Na) might be worth exploring.

What is Paediatric Tui Na massage?

Paediatric Tui Na (Xiao Er Tui Na) is a type of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) massage made for babies and children. It uses soft, gentle massage techniques on certain pressure points and energy lines in your child's body. The aim is to help support your child's body's natural balance through this holistic approach.

This massage style has been practised in Chinese medicine traditions for many centuries. Historical TCM texts describe how practitioners recommended parents massage their child's head, hands, and feet regularly. Today, parents may choose to explore this gentle tradition as part of their child's overall healthcare approach.

How does paediatric massage work?

Knowing the principles behind the massage can help you feel more comfortable about what your child will experience. TCM views the body as having specific acupuncture points (specific spots on the body). Gentle pressing, rubbing, or massage of these points aims to support:

• Energy circulation and blood flow around the body

• Growing internal systems like the digestive and respiratory systems

• Overall immune function

The touches are gentle and adapted for young children when performed by a qualified TCM physician.

Who can benefit from paediatric massage?

Paediatric massage is generally suitable for children aged 0 to 14 years old. It is commonly used to support children’s overall wellbeing, growth, and development.

Paediatric massage may not be suitable for children who:

• Have current or recent fractures

• Have experienced traumatic bleeding

• Have broken skin, skin ulcers, burns, or scalds

• Are suffering from acute or severe infectious diseases

• Have been diagnosed with cancer

• Are in a critical or unstable medical condition

If your child has any of the above conditions, please consult your paediatrician or TCM physician before considering paediatric massage.

What are the benefits of paediatric massage?

Paediatric massage therapy is used in TCM practice to support various aspects of your child’s health, which include:

• Keeping your child healthy:
  • Regular paediatric massage helps your child's body build strong natural defences.
• Easing digestive discomfort:
  • The massage can bring relief from tummy discomfort, occasional constipation, or fussiness with eating.
• Promoting eye health:
  • TCM paediatric massage may help support eye health and address early signs of vision issues like myopia (short-sightedness).
• Supporting focus and ADHD:
  • Through regular sessions, paediatric massage targets specific acupoints to help restore balance, calm the nerves, and support children's ability to focus.
• Helping minor health issues:
  • Paediatric massage helps with minor breathing problems, fevers, and coughs.

However, TCM paediatric massage is intended to complement conventional medicine. If your child has a high fever, is having trouble breathing, or seems to be in severe pain, please see your paediatrician right away.

When should I introduce my child to paediatric massage?

Many parents begin when their baby is just a few weeks old. Here's what the massage might help with at different ages:

• Newborns and tiny babies (0-6 months):

  • Always consult your paediatrician first. 

  • If appropriate, a gentle session with a TCM physician may be a good starting point to provide comfort for your baby.

• Toddlers (6 months-2 years):

  • This may be a suitable time to introduce gentle massage for everyday concerns.

• School-age children (3-12 years):

  • Massage becomes helpful for both physical and emotional wellbeing.

If you're unsure whether paediatric massage is right for your child, a qualified TCM physician can assess your child's individual needs and create a plan that's just right for them.

Not sure if paediatric massage is suitable for your child? Request an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine for a personalised assessment and to explore whether paediatric massage may help support your child’s health and development.

Can paediatric massage be done at home?

Yes, you may learn simple TCM massage techniques to use at home as part of your child’s daily care routines. The technique may involve having your child lie face down while you use your fingertips to massage along their spine, working from the lower tailbone up to the neck area. This can be a bonding moment that supports your child's comfort.

However, for specific health concerns or targeted treatment, consult a trained TCM physician who can assess your child's individual needs and demonstrate appropriate techniques for your situation.

How to help your child after paediatric massage

For the day after a session, there are easy things you can do to support your child's comfort:

• Offer your child warm water to drink

• Keep them cosy and away from cold air or cold baths

• Offer healthy and balanced meals

• Let them enjoy quiet play, rest, and naps

• Avoid rough play or tiring activities

Observe any change in your child's bowel movements, sleep patterns, and mood after treatment. Sharing this with your child’s TCM physician helps them adjust future sessions to suit your child even better.

If you notice anything unusual or have any concerns after a session, don't hesitate to speak with your therapist. Request an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine. They're there to support both you and your child throughout the healing journey.

FAQ

How often should a child receive a paediatric massage?

Treatment frequency varies based on individual needs. Your TCM physician will recommend a schedule appropriate for your child. Sessions typically last 15-30 minutes, depending on age and requirements. For certain concerns, more frequent sessions may be suggested. For general wellness support, less frequent visits may be appropriate.

Can paediatric massage replace going to the doctor?

No. Paediatric massage is a complementary therapy that must be used alongside conventional medical care. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a qualified medical doctor. Always follow your paediatrician's advice for any health concerns.

What's the difference between a TCM paediatric massage and a regular massage?

Regular massage focuses on easing tight muscles and relaxation, while TCM Tui Na massage is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles and aims to balance your child's energy and restore harmony in their body. 

Is paediatric massage safe for children?

Yes. Paediatric massage is safe when performed by a trained physician. It is a gentle approach that can help with common issues such as coughs, digestive discomfort, and sleep problems. Always choose a physician trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine. You should inform both your TCM physician and paediatrician about your child’s treatments.

Does paediatric massage need any special care?

Yes. It’s best to wait a short while after your child has eaten before the session. Make sure your child wears loose clothing, has something to drink beforehand, and is kept calm before the session.

Which children should not have massage therapy?

Massage should be avoided if a child has a high fever, open wounds, or recent injuries. For children with serious medical conditions, such as cancer and heart disease, medical approval should be obtained before any session.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and advice based on your conditions, request an appointment with Thomson Chinese Medicine today.