If you’re like many people, you’ve probably treated yourself to a relaxing massage with the hope of feeling better both physically and mentally.

It’s no secret that adults indulge in massage therapy to feel better, but can massage therapy be suitable for children? The answer is a definite “yes.” If you’re looking for natural and non-invasive ways to improve your child’s health and wellbeing, massage therapy may be an option.

Why Do Children Benefit From Massage Therapy?

Modern-day life puts a lot of pressure not only on adults, but also on children. Kids are expected to perform well at school and take on extracurricular activities, such as participating in sports, playing instruments and volunteering for community service projects.

Long hours spent studying, engaging in physical activity or even staring into a smartphone can take a toll on your child’s body, leading to aches, tension and bad posture.

Massage therapy is a safe and effective way for children to experience deep relaxation, release tension and simply enjoy life.

How Old Does a Child Have to Be to Get a Massage?

No one is too young to reap the many benefits of massage therapy. It’s not uncommon for parents to gently massage their babies to soothe and help them fall asleep.

This is because infants need human contact to flourish. A gentle massage can not only ease discomfort but also promote a baby’s physical, emotional and social development.

How Could Massage Therapy Benefit Your Child?

Massage therapy can be beneficial for children of all ages, offering several health and wellness benefits.

May Promote Healthy Development

Gentle massage can help stimulate a child’s growth and physical development. A study conducted in 2004 found that massage can help preterm babies gain weight and reach developmental milestones.

From a psychological standpoint, physical touch and nourishment helps children bond and develop a healthy attachment to their parents and caretakers.

May Help Reduce Stress

Massage therapy can help children relax and better manage their emotions, as it helps to release dopamine and serotonin, which are the body’s natural feel-good hormones.

Some parents may find it hard to believe there’s a relationship between massage therapy and the happiness and emotional wellbeing of their child. However, a 2004 study argues massage therapy can increase the production of dopamine and serotonin hormones in the body.

May Improve Academic Performance

Massage therapy can improve your child’s academic performance by reducing stress and anxiety, improving concentration, and increasing energy levels.

If stress and anxiety interfere with your child’s ability to focus on their studies, massage therapy can help reduce these feelings and allow them to concentrate more easily.

Massage therapy can also increase your child’s energy levels, allowing him or her to stay focused for longer periods of time and be more productive in their studies.

May Enhance Sleep Quality

Sleep is fundamental to your child’s growth, academic performance and overall wellbeing. On average, school-age children should be getting nine to 11 hours of sleep.

If your child is restless and struggles to get enough restful sleep, massage therapy can help promote relaxation and reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.

May Boost the Immune System

A strong immune system shields your child from many diseases, such as colds, viruses and infections. If your child’s immune system is compromised, they can easily get sick with the flu and other illnesses. Unfortunately, the many stresses and responsibilities related to school and academic performance can make it difficult for your child’s immune system to ward off illness-inducing germs.

Massage therapy can help boost your child’s immune system by reducing stress levels, increasing circulation and improving lymphatic drainage. Massage also increases circulation, which helps to move nutrients and oxygen to cells throughout the body and support its natural healing process.

Exceptional Healthcare for Houston’s Youngest Residents

At the St. Hope Foundation, the health of your child is our top priority. Our team of pediatricians and medical staff is committed to providing the best and most comprehensive pediatric care in Houston so you can rest easy knowing your child is in good hands.

Whether your little one is due for an annual checkup, needs a flu shot or needs a last-minute sick visit, we’re available around the clock to help.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call (713) 778-1300.