massaging a child

[Judas Priest]

A client called yesterday and asked if I would give her 5 year old daughter a short massage for mid-back pain. She saw the chiro yesterday and will see her again on Friday. She had some relief from the adjustment, but the mom knows that if the muscles aren't loosened, the adjustment will just be pulled out again. The mom asked the chiro if she recommends a massage. She said ok. I'm not sure what would best benefit her in terms of strokes. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks for your help!

 

[XxXanYniiXxX]

massaging a child

I'd go with very slow Swedish, dealing with whatever you find carefully. Remember, less oil and slower strokes feel deeper without having to add much pressure. You don't want to use a lot of pressure - little kidneys are in that back! Keep the communication open and be sure she is enjoying that massage. If she is able to mentally relax, she'll physically relax quite easily. Abdominal massage is important in low back pain, too.

Do they know what caused the pain? Is she in gymnastics? Prone to tree-climbing/falling? Spend a lot of time on her tummy watching tv or playing games?

It's really fun to massage a young child. They are usually very good at giving feedback!!

 

[elkgond1]

massaging a child

Yes, she is in gymnastics and I think that is the culprit, but I will do the intake and question the source tomorrow when she comes in. I appreciate the advice and will definitely be careful with her (esp. in the kidney area). Since it is mid-back pain, do you think the abdominal work will be as helpful as it is for LBP? I'm sure it wouldn't hurt to do some work in the abdomen.

I am looking forward to it and I know her mom, who is very well versed in massage will have prepared her and will be a great onlooker/communication helper too!

 

[pohakumaikai]

massaging a child

I wonder why I read LBP instead of what you wrote! Yes, abdominal work is still great for mid back pain. The diaphragm, especially, is probably tight and may have TPs, and should be very easily accessible in a 5 year old. Glide up under the ribs with one hand, press the ribcage slightly down over your hand and scoop the upper diaphragm. Intercostal work would probably be good, too.

 

[bob-chan]

massaging a child

No problem, Rose of Sharon, I do that all of the time...

Diaphragm work sounds good too!

I probably won't do much more than 15 -20 min. especially since it's her first massage.

Thanks again!

 

[Tim]

massaging a child

I had a kid yesterday who smiled every time she liked something. She didn't say a thing, but it was one of those smiles of pure delight! It was so much fun!!!

 

[aredsailjunk]

massaging a child

Well, the session went very well. I couldn't believe how tiny the body on my table was....

The poor kid had bilateral ropes all the way down the erectors....so young

I worked prone and supine and intercostals and got some release, but not enough. She will be back next week before the chiro appt.

Thanks again!

 

[Minerva]

massaging a child

I'm glad it went so well, and you will get a chance to work with her again soon.