[caption id="attachment_2995" align="alignright" width="293"] Toddlers get relief from constipation using acupressure and herbal medicine[/caption] At Inspire Family Acupuncture we frequently hear complaints from parents that their toddler is chronically constipated. Thankfully acupressure and herbal medicine, along with diet modification, can make a dramatic difference in toddlers' bowel regularity. We know that toddlers are struggling with their digestion if:

• Bowel movements are less frequently than daily;
• They have to strain to poop;
• Bowel movements seem incomplete, meaning small amounts of stool that doesn't seem to match the amount they've eaten; and/or
• Stool is quite hard or there is blood with bowel movements.

While pediatricians often tell parents that infrequent bowel movements is a "normal" occurrence, that does not mean that the child has a healthy digestive system. Pediatricians may guide parents on dietary modifications or may recommend MiraLax, however, MiraLax has not been approved for long term use in children due to lack of safety research.

How Can Acupressure and Herbal Medicine Help With Constipation?

Acupressure and herbal medicine both improve the passage of stool by increasing peristalsis (movement through the digestive tract), reducing digestive inflammation, and helping to moisten stools. We typically begin our work with toddlers by introducing acupressure and at-home acupressure and massage for the child first, to see if that shifts the constipated pattern. We also discuss diet with parents, as we want to move parents towards a diet that has:

• Increased dietary fiber (typically from fruits and vegetables);
• Increased water consumption;
• Decrease in constipating foods such as bananas and ultra-processed foods; and
• Increased moistening foods such as chia seeds, flax seeds, cashews (in moderation), and prunes.

For some children, constipation can also indicate an underlying dairy or other food sensitivity, so we discuss that with parents as well. If we work with children and families for a session or two and the pattern is not shifting enough we will recommend adding in a Chinese herbal formula. Our favorite herbal formula is mildly laxative but also contains herbs to help improve digestive function. For children for whom stress is a factor in digestive holding, we will provide additional or alternative herbal formulas that help to reduce nervous system tension.

When Will We See Results?

Every child is different in terms of their constitution, what is causing the constipation, and how long the problem has been happening. Some children do substantially better after 3-6 treatments, while others require longer term care to have relatively regular bowel movements.

Are Acupressure and Herbal Medicine Safe for My Toddler?

Yes! Acupressure is simply providing pressure on specific points on the body. There are no side effects to acupressure. The herbal medicines we prescribe have been carefully selected based on the companies' safety testing. These are medicines that we provide to our own children and that we deeply trust. If you have questions about whether acupressure and herbal medicine are right for your child, give us a call! We are always happy to provide a free consultation call before you book a session. Here's to your family's health!