Pediatric Tuina, also known as Chinese Pediatric Massage, is a special massage for young children branched out from Traditional Chinese Medicine and has been extensively practiced in China for at least 700 years since Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD). Hundreds of years of experience have revealed it is a unique way and means of affecting the energy flow in the bodies of young children. Pediatric Tuina is a form of external therapy to stimulate specific acupuncture points or areas for treating and preventing pediatric diseases in children. It works by influencing a child’s energetic flow such as Qi in the same way as acupuncture, but uses gentle massage to activate the various points instead of needles. According to the characteristics of children’s physiology and pathology, a different combination of massage, acupressure and other forms of body manipulation are designed to boost the function of the internal organs by balancing their intrinsic energies, strengthening the immune system, and promoting brain development.
What are the benefits of Pediatric Tuina?
A child’s growth and development depend on the flow and diffusion of vital Qi and its balance between the organs. Illnesses of all kinds are the result of some disturbance to the normal flow of Qi. Pediatric Tuina can help restore this flow to treat most of the common health issues in babies & children. The effects of Pediatric Tuina treatment for common pediatric diseases of the respiratory system and digestive system are pronounced. Pediatric Tuina is suitable for the treatment of a wide range of common childhood ailments like cold, fever, cough, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion, vomiting, frequent bed-wetting, night crying, stiff neck, short sightedness etc. Pediatric Tuina can also improve child’s overall health by strengthening immune system. The child is less lethargic and has a better appetite. In turn, this helps to promote growth in children and boost their brain development. As there is no need to take medication or have injections, children can more easily accept treatment in the form of Pediatric Tuina.
What happens during a session?
Before the massage, a diagnosis will be done and your child’s history, including physical traumas, medication, past surgeries and lifestyle will be recorded. Typically before the start of the session, the child will be required to expose the affected parts of the body. A towel will be used to cover these parts to prevent your child from catching a cold. Each session is usually between 15 to 30 minutes or less, depending on the techniques used and the duration for each point. The duration of treatment can vary according to your child’s age, physical body condition and type of illness. Pediatric Tuina is found very effective for infants & children from one month to 10 years old. We use this system for our little clients until he/she reaches 14.
What you should note for your child before and after the treatment?
Before: Do not go on an empty or a full stomach and wear loose clothing.
After: Keep warm and avoid cold places. Drink warm water. Avoid raw and cold foods, sweet and oily foods.