Touching includes stroking, swaddling, holding, rocking, caressing, cuddling and massaging. Cuddling is nature's own pain remedy. Gently rocking a child while singing or talking softly is used all over the world. Heat, cold and vibration can relieve pain. Ice wrapped in a cloth eases some disease and procedure pain.
Heat is useful for muscle pain.
Take care not to injure delicate skin. Vibration, either by gentle tapping or some other mechanical method, can block pain. There are many simple pain control methods we can teach children. Once they learn the methods, children below about 8 years of age will usually need a parent or other coach present during painful procedures. Older children often can use these techniques on their own.