Massage has been used for thousands of years in many places around the world. It has healing properties that benefit adults and children alike. In modern days, massage therapy (MT) is often used as a treatment to go alongside other treatments for medical conditions. I enjoyed reading a chapter in Integrative Pediatrics, by Timothy P. Culbert and Karen Olness. The chapter “A Pediatric Perspective on Massage” was written by Shay Beider, Erin T. O’Callagen, and Jeffrey I. Gold. It gave me insight on the value of massage therapy for children.

Personal Story

I remember the first time I had a massage at my chiropractor’s office. The massage worked on muscles that were involved in my scoliosis. The side effect was relaxation of general tension I experienced due to juggling many responsibilities.

Massage Therapy, a Complementary and Alternative Medicine

A study showed that 33% of parents choose Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) therapies. Massage Therapy is a popular choice. Pediatric MT is the handling of soft tissue to encourage health for children and adolescents. Massage therapists use rubbing, pressing, and stroking movements to work on soft tissues and muscles on the body. The goals of massage are to relax tissues, increase oxygen and blood in the area, and reduce pain.

Pediatric massage therapists need special training beyond what is required for adult care, especially when the massage in used for children with certain health conditions. Children generally need shorter sessions than adults.

The effects of a massage include:

• relaxation and reduced stress
• reduced pain
• feelings of improved well-being from chemical release
• improved sleep

For infants, studies show that benefits include:

• Increased weight gain
• Shorter hospital stays in premature/low birth weight infants
• Decreased crying
• Improved sleep
• Increased relaxation
• Increased air flow in children with lungs disorders
• Improved muscle tone
• Reduced chronic pain for specific body parts and certain health conditions

General conditions where massage may bring benefits:

• Constipation/intestinal discomfort
• Growing pains
• Sleep difficulties
• Worries about school or peer relationships
• Skin: Improved circulation for psoriasis and eczema, if skin is intact. Some burns, scar tissue, pressure sores, etc. benefit.
• Musculoskeletal: relieves muscle, tendinous, and ligamentous tightness in spinal curves, helps relieve tension around broken bones, helps sprains
• Nervous system is generally relaxed, helping sleep, and decreasing pain. It improves mobility and circulation.
• Cardiovascular system benefits from blood circulation, and reduced heart rate. Children with high blood pressure might benefit from a light massage like Integrative Touch.
• Lymphatic and Immune systems are enhanced by lymphatic massage.
• Respiratory benefits include loosening tight muscles to help loosen and discharge mucus. Children with cystic fibrosis may also benefit.

Children who have cancer, been abused, have eating disorders, or other special medical conditions may have improved wellness from experiencing massage.

Safety

There are situations where massage should not be undertaken. Trained therapists must be aware and not engage MT when it is not safe.

Action

Massage therapy for children from a trained professional could be valuable for children with a variety of conditions.

May God bless your healthful endeavors!

Joni

P.S. What experience do you have with massage?