Pediatric Reflexology for Allergies, Asthma, Bed Wetting and more for Babies and Children

Updated: Jan 3

Babies and children respond quickly to reflexology. The younger the person, the more easily their energy can flow. Because proper balance is easily restored in youngsters energy medicine such as pediatric Reflexology and Acupuncture help keep small problems from becoming big problems.

Parents and doctors alike are turning their attention to complimentary treatments such as reflexology which form a part of a healthier lifestyle as opposed to quick and temporary fixes.

Reflexology:

Reflexology is offered to help children of different abilities and difficulties. It delivers benefits on a physical, mental and emotional level.

What are the benefits?

Physically, reflexology can

- Stimulate the children’s overall immunity.

- Improve bowel movement Colic,

- Relax the nervous system to bring down muscle tightness .

- Reduce existing long term conditions like :

asthma
Allergies
Bed Wetting
eczema and Psoriasis
Ear and respiratory problems
Skin problems, Childhood eczema and Psoriasis
Hyperactivity
Menstrual problems in puberty
Respiratory infections
Sleep disturbances
Sporting injuries
Stress
Teething

Mentally, reflexology can

- Enhance attention,

- Focus

- Memory

- Concentration .

As well as being beneficial in a nursery of school setting, this also supports the child’s overall cognitive development.

Emotionally, reflexology can

- strengthen self esteem and

- build confidence.

Changes or challenges in a child’s life might be at times overwhelming, such as starting a nursery or school, the arrival of a sibling, sickness in a family or separation.

The soothing effect of reflexology supports the child’s coping mechanisms. It is especially effective with conditions such as bed-wetting, where the symptoms are physical yet the origin is usually emotional.

Restriction: Complimentary treatments are not a substitute for standard medical monitoring and care. There are times when a baby should not have reflexology and you should seek medical advice such as if the baby is paler than usual, if he has a fever, has had any vaccines in the last 48 hours or he is ‘not quite right’ in your opinion

How does it work?

The theoretical basis of reflexology lies in stimulating some of the 7000 nerve endings in the feet, which correspond to different organs or parts of the body. Targeting different areas of the foot brings about a benefit to the associated area of the body. Reflexology is a self-regulatory approach meaning that the manipulation of particular reflex zone triggers the body’s own healing mechanism. Children usually receive traditional Foot Reflexology which can be additionally enhanced by Massage Therapy,

What to expect:

Children often have complex and individual needs. As such, their response to the treatment can vary, depending of the nature and length of their condition. Every treatment is different and adjusted to child’s current level of well being. In addition, families are offered as much support and advice as possible, and are being taught reflexology techniques to use between treatments.

Regular sessions allow for the cumulative effects of treatments to be felt. Over time, the child often learns to make the connection between the touch on their feet and feeling calmer and relaxed. It’s not uncommon for children (especially nonverbal ones) to ask for the treatment by putting the hand of the therapist or the parent onto their feet.

The end of treatment happens gradually and the decision involves the parent(s), the therapist and the child.

By Rochel Rubinoff

Rochel practices Swedish Massage, Hot Stone Massage, Reflexology, and is a 'Life Coach'. She works with women and children.

Rochel has been a healer since 2004. She qualified as a Reflexologist and massage Therapist at 'Shelem College of Complementary Medicine in The Spirit of Judaism' in Yerushalaim. She is a certified 'Life Coach' from 'Freedom Coaching School ' in Tel Aviv. In addition she is currently in the process of obtaining her Diploma in ' Diagnostic Reflexology ' at 'Maayanot College' in Yerushalaim.