As we get older, many of us come to appreciate the soothing benefits of a massage. It helps alleviate stress, ease tension, and reduce pain. But what about children? Do they, too, experience physical discomfort that could benefit from the kneading, pulling, and pressure of a therapeutic or medical massage?
It may seem like a stretch to consider that kids, with their boundless energy and resilience, might need a professional massage. However, children experience aches, pains, and discomfort just like adults—albeit for different reasons. From growing pains to post-sport soreness, kids’ bodies can also benefit from the healing touch of massage. The question is, can their young bodies handle it?
To delve deeper into this topic, we spoke with Carola Janiak, the founder and director of Hands-on Medical Massage School, after attending the 6th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition at Loma Linda University. She graciously answered a few questions about the benefits of massage for children and how it can support their physical well-being.
How Can Massage Help Children?
While we typically associate massage therapy with stress relief or injury recovery in adults, it’s essential to understand that children also experience physical discomfort. The modern world often presents kids with new stressors and physical demands, from school backpacks to after-school sports. Here are a few ways in which massage can help children:
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Relieving Growing Pains
Many children experience growing pains, especially during periods of rapid growth. These pains typically affect the legs and can be a source of discomfort for kids. Massage can soothe the muscles and joints, helping to alleviate pain and discomfort that accompanies growth spurts. -
Easing Muscle Tension and Soreness
Active children, especially those who participate in sports or physical activities, can develop tight muscles or even experience minor injuries. Massage therapy can be used to relax tight muscles, improve circulation, and aid in muscle recovery. -
Reducing Anxiety and Stress
Even kids are not immune to the pressures of daily life. From school to social dynamics, kids can experience anxiety and stress. Massage has been shown to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and promote relaxation, potentially helping children cope with daily stress. -
Improving Sleep
Children, like adults, need adequate sleep to function well. A gentle massage before bedtime can promote relaxation and make it easier for children to drift off into a restful sleep, ensuring they wake up refreshed and energized. -
Boosting Immunity
Regular massage therapy can help stimulate the immune system. For children, this can be beneficial in promoting overall health and reducing the likelihood of illness, especially during flu season.
What Type of Massage Is Best for Children?
The type of massage used for children is crucial. Since kids have more sensitive and delicate muscles than adults, it’s important to apply gentle pressure. The goal is not to knead out knots or deep tissue but rather to use gentle strokes that help stimulate relaxation and recovery. Some ideal massage techniques for children include:
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Swedish Massage: Light, smooth strokes designed to relax the body and improve circulation. This type of massage is ideal for children as it is soothing and calming.
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Lymphatic Drainage Massage: Focuses on boosting circulation and immune function by gently stimulating the lymphatic system.
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Craniosacral Therapy: A gentle, hands-on approach that focuses on balancing the central nervous system and can be particularly helpful for children experiencing physical discomfort or stress.
It’s essential that massage for children be performed by a trained and licensed massage therapist with experience working with young clients. Children’s bodies are still developing, and a professional knows the right techniques and pressure for a child’s age and size.
Can Children Undergo Therapeutic or Medical Massage?
It’s a common misconception that only adults can benefit from therapeutic or medical massage. Therapeutic massage for children is not only possible but can be extremely beneficial. The key lies in adjusting techniques to suit the child’s needs.
While adults often seek massage for chronic pain, injury recovery, or stress, children typically require massage for preventative care or relief from temporary discomforts. For instance, kids with ADHD, anxiety, or muscle tension may find relief through regular therapeutic touch.
Carola Janiak, the founder of Hands-on Medical Massage School, notes that children can especially benefit from massage when it is incorporated into preventive health care routines. By addressing tension, stress, and physical discomfort early, therapeutic massage may help avoid more severe musculoskeletal issues in the future.
Is Massage Safe for Children?
Yes, massage therapy is generally safe for children. However, it’s essential to consider a few key points before starting:
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Age-appropriate techniques: As mentioned earlier, the type of massage applied must be adjusted according to the child’s age and physical development. For younger children, lighter strokes are appropriate, while older children can handle slightly more pressure.
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Licensed professionals: Always ensure that the person performing the massage is a licensed therapist with experience working with children. This ensures that the therapist is familiar with safe techniques and understands the unique needs of young bodies.
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Health considerations: If a child has any existing health conditions, such as chronic pain, allergies, or injuries, it’s always best to consult with a pediatrician before pursuing massage therapy.
Conclusion: The Healing Touch for Kids
While many people associate massage therapy with adults, children can experience great benefits from it as well. Whether for relief from growing pains, stress, muscle soreness, or sleep issues, a therapeutic massage can support a child’s physical and emotional well-being.
If you’re considering massage therapy for your child, it’s essential to find a qualified therapist experienced with young clients. As always, it’s a good idea to check with your child’s pediatrician before starting any new therapy or treatment, especially if your child has specific health concerns.
At the end of the day, just like adults, children’s bodies need relaxation, rejuvenation, and care—and massage therapy offers a safe and effective way to nurture these growing bodies. So, the next time your child is feeling stressed or experiencing muscle tension, consider the healing benefits of a gentle massage. You may be surprised at just how much a little touch can help.