What is Paediatric Tuina?
Paediatric Tuina, a branch of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a time-tested massage technique that has been used for thousands of years in the East to keep children healthy and treat illness. It’s an effective, natural and non-invasive approach to supporting children’s health.
Typically used for children from birth up to around age 12, Paediatric Tuina is specifically tailored for young children, targeting acupoints and organ systems to promote balance and harmony.
What does it entail?
In the last few decades, allergies have substantially increased in industrialised society, especially among children and young people. The rise in this modern epidemic of allergies calls for a demand to be mindful of the food we eat and a focus on building resistance to combat allergens in the environment.
Paediatric Tuina helps build a strong immune system, providing good resistance to childhood ailments and greatly reducing tendencies to react to the ever-increasing amounts of substances surrounding us. These can cause allergies such as asthma, eczema and IBS. This approach allows the child to develop to the full potential of their genes
How is it effective?
It’s particularly effective in addressing common childhood ailments, including:
- Digestive issues: colic, diarrhoea, constipation, poor appetite
- Respiratory problems: cough, asthma, nasal congestion
- Sleep disturbances: difficulty falling or staying asleep, night terrors
- Fever and common colds: as a complementary support
- Behavioural concerns: hyperactivity, anxiety
- Developmental support: for children with delayed milestones or low immunity
Amongst its endless benefits, it also helps with rashes, restlessness, teething and bed-wetting.
Paediatric Tuina helps the complete immune system and overall well-being by promoting healthy mental and physical development.
Why try Paediatric Tuina for children?
- Non-invasive and drug-free: Tuina is holistic and side-effect-free, minimising pharmaceutical interventions for minor ailments in children.
- Boosts immunity: Regular sessions can strengthen a child’s immune system, making them more resilient to seasonal illnesses and recurring infections.
- Improves digestion: Because TCM views the digestive system as central to overall health, paediatric Tuina often focuses on strengthening the spleen and stomach, which can improve nutrient absorption and reduce issues like bloating reflux, or sluggish bowels.
- Soothing effect: Many children find the gentle touch of Tuina incredibly soothing. It can help reduce anxiety, promote restful sleep and support emotional regulation.
- Enhances bonding: Parents can learn basic Tuina techniques to use at home, turning it into a nurturing daily ritual that deepens the parent-child connection.
What to expect during a treatment session
During a paediatric Tuina session, the practitioner will first assess the child’s health using diagnostic methods such as observing the tongue, asking about symptoms and feeling the pulse.
Treatment is typically done with the child fully clothed, often while seated on a parent’s lap or playing. Sessions are tailored to be comforting and stress-free.
Is Paediatric Tuina safe for all children?
Yes, it’s extremely safe when performed by a trained practitioner. It’s gentle enough for newborns and practitioners are careful to adapt their techniques to the child’s size, age and health status. However, it’s important to consult with your paediatrician and a licensed TCM practitioner before beginning any new treatments.
If you’re looking for more natural and preventive approaches to healthcare, Paediatric Tuina offers a valuable tool, rooted in centuries of wisdom. Whether used on its own or alongside conventional medicine, this gentle therapy supports children’s physical, emotional and energetic well-being.
If you’re curious about Paediatric Tuina or wonder whether it might be a good fit for your child, feel free to get in touch with us to find out more.
