Which acupressure points can be massaged to relieve cough in children?

Cough in children is a symptom of certain diseases—most commonly respiratory infections, but it may also occur in non-respiratory infections and systemic illnesses. However, coughing is also a protective reflex of the body and is a frequent occurrence in young children. In such cases, parents should not rush to administer medication; instead, they may first try massage therapy.

Massaging the *Shanzhong* acupoint (CV17) during a child’s cough can help alleviate coughing. This point lies at the center of the chest, precisely at the intersection of the line connecting the two nipples and the midline of the sternum. The technique involves gently pushing and kneading the *Shanzhong* point upward with the parent’s thumb for approximately two minutes, until the child experiences a mild sensation of distension or numbness.

Additionally, the *Fenglong* acupoint (ST40) may be selected for massage. It is located eight cun above the lateral malleolus, on the lateral aspect of the anterior border of the tibia, between the tibia and fibula. One set of massage consists of approximately 50 repetitions and helps resolve phlegm and suppress cough.

Children with allergic reactions require special attention in daily life. Massage offers no therapeutic benefit in such cases; instead, allergen avoidance is essential. When an allergic reaction occurs, prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital are necessary to alleviate the child’s discomfort and prevent disease progression.