Boosting Language and Comprehension Skills in Toddlers with Acupressure

Delayed language comprehension in toddlers!

Hello Dr.
Lin! My child is experiencing language delay and comprehension delay.
At two years and nine months old, he still cannot speak a complete sentence (no more than four words in a sentence), and his understanding is also poorer than that of his peers.
I would like to ask Dr.
Lin which acupressure points can be massaged to help improve my child's language and comprehension abilities? How long should the massage be done? Additionally, he recently injured his eardrum while I was carelessly cleaning his ears.
Are there any acupressure points that can help his eardrum recover properly? How long should that massage be done?

Zhuang Tai Tai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2014/11/28

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

Dear Mrs.
Chuang / 31 years old / Female online user,
Hello,
1.
All of your concerns should first be addressed by a Western medicine pediatrician, pediatric neurosurgeon, or an otolaryngologist to rule out any underlying issues.
Chinese medicine massage should be avoided as the child's cranial bones are not fully developed.
If massage is necessary, it should be done on the correct acupressure points and techniques.
If possible, please bring your child to my clinic for demonstration and guidance on the proper techniques.
2.
Your child is experiencing speech and comprehension delays.
At two years and nine months, they are unable to form complete sentences (no more than four words per sentence) and have poorer comprehension compared to peers.
Gentle massage on acupressure points such as Baihui and Sishencong can be performed, but avoid the fontanelle area (which has not yet closed—massaging this area is dangerous and must be avoided).
3.
If the child has accidentally injured the eardrum while cleaning their ears, gentle massage on the acupressure points in front of the ear such as Ermen, Tinggong, Tinghui, Yifeng, and Yanglingquan can help restore normal function.
Each session should last about 20 minutes.
4.
Due to the incomplete development of the child's cranial bones, it is important to minimize contact and proceed with caution.
I attempted to upload images to illustrate the correct acupressure points and techniques multiple times but was unsuccessful.
Therefore, I am only able to provide this written information.
If possible, please bring your child to my clinic for demonstration and guidance on the proper techniques.
Finally, I wish you all the best.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Lin Qingzhong
Chief of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fengyuan Hospital
Associate Professor, Central Taiwan University of Science and Technology

Reply Date: 2014/11/28

More Info

When addressing language and comprehension delays in toddlers, particularly in the case of your 2-year and 9-month-old child, it is important to consider a comprehensive approach that includes both medical and therapeutic interventions. While acupressure may provide some benefits, it should not be viewed as a standalone treatment. Instead, it can be used as a complementary therapy alongside speech therapy and other developmental support.

Acupressure for Language and Comprehension Skills
Acupressure is based on traditional Chinese medicine principles, where specific points on the body are stimulated to promote healing and balance. For language and comprehension issues, certain acupressure points may be beneficial:
1. Yintang (Hall of Impression): Located between the eyebrows, this point is believed to help calm the mind and improve focus, which can be beneficial for language development.

2. Shenmen (Heart 7): Located on the wrist, this point is thought to help with emotional balance and may support cognitive functions.

3. Spleen 6 (San Yin Jiao): Located on the inner leg, this point is associated with digestive health and overall vitality, which can indirectly support cognitive development.

4. Pericardium 6 (Neiguan): Located on the inner forearm, this point is often used to alleviate anxiety and promote emotional well-being, which can be beneficial for a child struggling with communication.

Duration and Technique
For acupressure, gentle pressure can be applied to these points for about 1-3 minutes each, 1-2 times a day. It is essential to be gentle and observe your child's reactions. If they seem uncomfortable, it may be best to stop or reduce the pressure. Consistency is key, so incorporating this into a daily routine may yield better results.

Addressing Ear Drum Recovery
Regarding the injury to your child's eardrum, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Acupressure may help alleviate discomfort and promote healing, but it should not replace medical advice. Some points that may support ear health include:
1. Ear Point (located on the ear): Gently massaging the ear itself can stimulate healing.

2. Liver 3 (Tai Chong): Located on the foot, this point is believed to help with inflammation and overall health.

3. Gallbladder 20 (Feng Chi): Located at the base of the skull, this point may help with ear-related issues.

Conclusion
While acupressure can be a supportive therapy, it is essential to combine it with professional speech therapy and medical care, especially considering your child's ear injury. Speech therapy can provide targeted strategies to enhance language skills and comprehension, while a pediatrician or an ENT specialist can monitor the recovery of the eardrum and ensure there are no complications.

In summary, acupressure may offer some benefits, but it should be part of a broader strategy that includes professional guidance. Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers will ensure that your child receives the best possible care for their developmental needs.

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