Massaging a Baby's Feet
Foot massage not only warms the feet but also contributes to an overall improvement in the child's wellbeing. Perhaps you have observed what happens when a child steps into cold water in summer. After a few steps, a similar scene usually unfolds: the child stops and looks in surprise as drops begin to fall from the area no longer covered by a nappy. The direct effect of cold water on the bladder indicates a close connection between the feet and the rest of the body. It has long been recognised that the feet contain numerous reflex areas that become active under certain circumstances. In various conditions, a suitably selected foot massage can bring a marked improvement. Treatment, however, should be carried out by specialists.
The source says that infant foot massage is intended not as treatment, but to promote comfort and provide a preventive benefit. It quotes an old saying: ‘Keep the head cool and the feet warm, and the doctor will become poor.’
Remember that:
- Always begin the foot massage with the right foot (the one farther from the heart), then massage the left foot.
- The source recommends massaging the baby's feet every day. It says that the remaining steps do not all have to be performed immediately afterwards; for example, the massage can begin in the morning and later steps can be left until the evening.
- The child's position during the massage does not matter. The child can be massaged while lying down, either on their tummy or back, or while sitting. A good-quality massage oil should be used. Mallow oil is recommended, as it also helps warm the feet and calves.
‘Jar of Cream’
The source instructs the caregiver to place the baby's foot between both open hands, with one hand supporting the sole and the other resting on top, then rotate the hands gently in opposite directions. It compares the movement to unscrewing a jar lid, says the foot may feel warmer after a short time and proposes the same technique for the hands.
‘Finger joints’
Make a fist and rub the sole of the foot back and forth with your knuckles, gently at first and then more firmly. The source says that the technique can be performed with as much pressure and for as long as the child remains content.
The source claims that this technique strengthens the tissues of the foot, stimulates a reflex area and improves blood flow to the skin and subcutaneous tissue.
‘Playing with the toes’
We move the child's toes and play with them for mutual enjoyment.
‘Rings around the foot’
The source instructs the adult to place the fingers over the top of the foot and the thumbs on the sole, then use the thumbs to make larger and smaller circles across the sole.
‘Circling around the ankles’
Lift the child's leg upwards or hold it straight. Using light pressure, circle the inner and outer ankle bones. If performing the movement with both hands simultaneously is difficult, circle one ankle with one hand first and then switch.
‘Rubbing Strokes’
Finally, rub the skin of the lower leg several times, moving from the foot towards the knee. This may already serve as a transition to a calf massage... but that will be covered in another article.
When, for how long and where to massage
When? Massaging a baby requires devoting a considerable amount of time to them. Massage is not something that can be done in passing or merely when an opportunity arises. A child senses reluctance, anxiety, nervousness or dissatisfaction just as they sense joy, calmness, care and kindness. Parents should be relaxed and willing to give the massage. It must not feel like an obligation for either the child or the parents. Where? A pleasant, warm and suitable room is best. In summer, this could be a garden or a beach by the sea. What with? Use baby oil or a special emulsion during the massage. This also cares for the child’s skin. At what age should massage begin? You can carefully begin massage as early as the second week of life. Make use of every suitable opportunity; even twice a day will do no harm. Later, for example after the child reaches 6 months of age, a massage every other day is sufficient. Reduce the frequency over time. It is best to decide this for yourselves. Setting and following a rigid schedule is not particularly beneficial. Children who enjoy massage up to school age are often encountered.
Emilia Adamczyk