Massage is a holistic treatment for the mind and body that is often sought out by adults to treat and relieve many illnesses. Why should children not benefit as well?
Pediatric massage has been practiced for hundreds of years outside of Western medicine. Common in many Asian countries including India and China, there are many variations of pediatric massage. The introduction of pediatric massage to Western countries is part of a wellness and patient-centred approach to medicine.
Sick Kids recognizes the benefits of adopting pediatric massage stating “It conveys to the child a sense of security and trust that is very essential for the newcomer into the world.” —Sick Kids
Massage therapy can be used in addition to or as an alternative to other traditional medical treatments. We often hear of the benefits of massage for adults, however, there are just as many benefits for babies and children. When performed by a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), pediatric massage can be used to provide relief or help heal many illnesses.
What is Pediatric Massage?
Like massage for adults, pediatric massage consists of manipulating tissue to relieve tension and promote health for the body and mind. When performed by an experienced Registered Massage Therapist, pediatric massage is safe and effective for children and babies.
Pediatric massage can be helpful for children and babies who experience stress, trouble sleeping, pain, or an injury. If you have a specific concern, you can speak with an RMT with experience working with pediatric clients to learn more.
What are the Benefits of Massage for Babies?
Babies and newborns are especially fragile and sometimes this makes people who aren’t familiar with pediatric massage hesitant. However, Sick Kids highlights their use of pediatric massage in the Neonatal ICU as a method of relaxation or rehabilitation. When performed by an experienced RMT, pediatric massage is not only a safe but non-invasive way to treat the root of a problem rather than the symptoms of different illnesses.
Some of the benefits for babies include:
- Promotes a deeper sleep
- Enhances neurological development
- Promotes calm
- Relieves discomfort – teething, colic, gas
Treating babies can sometimes be a challenge in healthcare, however, in pediatric massage, by focusing on a holistic approach to the body and mind, we are able to safely provide relief to babies.
What are the Benefits of Massage for Children?
Children are constantly growing and developing which comes with growing pains both physically and emotionally. Pediatric massage can be helpful in treating or bringing relief to children through natural and non-invasive methods.
Some of the benefits of pediatric massage for children:
- Reduces anxiety
- Reduces growing pains
- Increases brain development
- Decreases stress
- Stimulates motor development
- Stimulates cognitive development
There is also increasing research, like the study being conducted at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, into the benefits of pediatric massage for patients with illnesses such as cancer. In Western medicine, the focus on treating symptoms often doesn’t bring relief to patients and leaves them seeking out alternative treatment options. Pediatric massage therapy is quickly becoming the answer for many patients.
We know that you want your children to have the best treatment available to them. Massage therapy has so many benefits for the mind and body of children and babies that can bring comfort and relief. We want to help your child find the best version of themselves.
Take advantage of our holistic approach and Book an appointment today.
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