Massage Techniques for Children Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of using the 'open book' technique on an infant's chest?

Answer: To stretch intercostal muscles and support breathing

The open book technique gently sweeps outward across the chest to expand the ribcage and support respiratory function.

Tapotement techniques (percussion) are generally:

Answer: Contraindicated for infants under 6 months

Tapotement is generally contraindicated for infants under 6 months due to their neurological immaturity and fragility.

In pediatric facial massage, thumb circles on the sinuses are typically used to:

Answer: Relieve sinus congestion and headaches

Gentle circular pressure over the sinus areas can improve drainage and relieve congestion and associated headache pain in children.

Which position is safest for massaging a newborn's back?

Answer: Prone (on their stomach) with head turned to side

Prone positioning with the head turned to the side allows back massage while maintaining a patent airway in newborns.

The 'thumb press' technique on infant feet is used primarily to:

Answer: Stimulate reflexology points and improve circulation

Gentle thumb presses across the sole stimulate reflexology zones and improve circulation in the infant's feet.

Petrissage on an infant should be performed with:

Answer: Very light, gentle kneading using fingertips only

Petrissage on infants uses only fingertip or gentle two-finger kneading to avoid damaging delicate muscle fibers and growth plates.