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

Cough in children is a symptom of certain diseases—most commonly respiratory infections, but it may also occur in non-respiratory infectious conditions and systemic illnesses. However, coughing is also a protective reflex of the body and is a relatively common occurrence in young children. In such cases, parents should not rush to administer medication; instead, they may first try massage therapy. Massaging the *Shanzhong* (CV17) acupoint during episodes of coughing can help alleviate cough symptoms. This acupoint lies on the anterior midline of the chest, at the intersection of the line connecting the two nipples and the midline of the sternum.

The massage technique involves the parent using the thumb to gently push and knead the *Shanzhong* point upward from below for approximately two minutes, continuing until the child experiences a mild sensation of distension or numbness. Additionally, the *Fenglong* (ST40) acupoint may be massaged. 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 cycle of massage consists of about 50 repetitions and helps resolve phlegm and suppress coughing.

For children with known allergies, extra caution is essential in daily life. Massage offers no therapeutic benefit in allergic reactions; instead, allergen avoidance is critical. Should an allergic reaction occur, prompt medical evaluation and treatment at a hospital are necessary to alleviate the child’s discomfort and prevent disease progression.