Tui Na’s Role In Reducing The Symptoms Of Cerebral Palsy And Autism

Also known as “Chinese massage,” Tui Na is an oriental therapeutic massage that has been used since ancient times. It is deemed to be of equal effectiveness and importance to that of acupuncture in Miami and is a major component of a holistic system known as traditional Chinese medicine. Tui Na has a far reaching tradition as an all-encompassing healing art, with zero adverse side effects. It is based on the traditional Chinese medical concept of the movement of Chi (Qi) or the body’s internal energy, through the energy channels called meridians as its fundamental therapeutic orientation. Through the use of manipulation and massage techniques, Tuina aims to develop a better and harmonized flow of energy, giving the body the body the power to naturally heal itself. The Chinese system of meridians, in Western medical terms, tracks lymphatic vessels, nerves, and major arteries, while several of the meridian energetic points correspond to muscle trigger points and bundles of nerves. Aside from being used to resolve sports injuries, chronic pain conditions, and various physical problems – all conditions that in Western cultures would be addressed by physiotherapy, chiropractics, and osteopathy – Tui Na can also be used to widely treat chronic problems such as sleep problems, irritable bowel syndrome headaches, constipation, and migraines. It is believed to increase relaxation (‘digest’ and rest and parasympathetic reactions), reduce irritability (‘fight or flight’ sympathetic reactions), anxiety, and aggressiveness, all of which help balance the autonomic nervous system. In general, targeted and regular touch- and massage-therapies can help stimulate the senses (see, smell, feel, hear, and touch) and blood circulation; stabilize sleeping patterns, mood and digestion; stimulate kidney and liver activity; stimulate manufacture of melatonin and serotonin and bring about lower stress levels and regulation of cortisol.

The potential of Tui Na in treating the symptoms of Cerebral Palsy and Autism

Tui Na massage does not claim to cure autism but based on several parental reports and various related studies regarding massage and touch-therapies that are based on the same principles, it has the potential to improve and lessen several of the crippling symptoms that often accompany or are part of autism. A lot of the parents who have attended the training and administered regular daily massage at home have reported improvements in digestive, sensory, repetitive behavior, sensory, and speech problems, as well as in outbursts, stress levels, social skills, and sleep. Moreover, daily application of practicing this massage can strengthen further the special bond that parents have with their child, and thus improve their own wellbeing and lower parental stress.

There is no doubt that Tui Na therapy can play a significant role in enhancing the quality of life of a child stricken with Cerebral palsy.

For a lot of Cerebral palsy children, best results can be experienced if bodywork is targeted on indirectly affecting muscle tone via manipulation of the legs, arms, and all the major joints, slow range of motion exercises, and acupressure points that bring about restoration of limb functions and movements, increasing ability to do things by themselves such as walking, putting on the clothes, and eating, increasing movements of affected joints, decrease in muscular spasm, and improved speech.

Because Tui Na massage is holistic with no reported negative side effects, it can be effectively used as an adjunct to conventional behavioral and autism support strategies and other therapies.

Several studies have proven that both adults and children suffering from autism can respond very well to touch, providing it is predictable, structured, and regular, unlike the random touch that is often very problematic for them and happens in social situations.