Teething can be a difficult time for babies and their parents. It can cause discomfort, pain, and sleepless nights. Fortunately, there are ways to help your baby feel better during this time. Massaging your baby's feet is one of the most effective methods for relieving teething pain.
Reflexology is a practice that involves applying pressure to the hands and feet to promote healing and relaxation. Reflexologists believe that the feet are connected to the teeth and head, so massaging your baby's feet can help with teething. The point of the solar plexus is located below the sole of the foot in the center. This point helps to induce calm and relaxation.
Points are found for the teeth. Massage into the padded part of the palm near the thumbs for about 30 seconds every two hours before bedtime. This helps to reduce pain in the gums, and also reduces the volume of extra saliva. The knuckle of the big toe should also be massaged before, during, and after bath time in a clockwise motion.
Sleep induction point is one of the most effective acupressure points when a baby is inconsolable. If you have addressed all the common causes of wakefulness (hunger, diapers, heat, gas), try this pressure point. In the middle (but approximately 1 cm above the eyebrows) use a gentle touch to stroke for 10 to 20 seconds. Toys that are specifically designed for teething also give babies something to chew on and relieve some of the pressure that incoming teeth have on their gums.
Premature babies or sick newborns may have had blood drawn from their heels regularly and may develop an association of pain with anyone who touches their feet. Applying a gentle massage and therapeutic touch to specific areas will have an effect on the corresponding part of the body or the whole child. Reflexology works great for most babies, and you can practice it by applying gentle pressure to the areas of small feet. There were significant differences between the reflexology and control groups; however, there were no significant differences between reflexology and massage for bowel frequency, and there was no significant difference between the control and massage groups for bowel frequency or overall scores of symptoms of constipation. Knowing exactly where and how to massage your baby's feet can help to overcome those difficult days and nights when nothing seems to relieve your baby's discomfort. Massaging specific points will provide relief in the corresponding body area: teeth, jaw, sinuses, etc.
Babies who cry and push their feet away may tell you that their contact is unwanted and to try again at another time. These videos are wonderful for babies and children with mild conditions that you are comfortable trying to help with at home. With a little bit of practice, you can learn how to massage your baby's feet effectively for teething relief.
