For example, in a 30-day study by Touch Research Institute at the University of Miami Medical School in Miami, Florida, children with asthma experienced improved pulmonary function after receiving massage therapy administered by their parents. The children's parents were taught to provide massage therapy for 20 minutes every night before bedtime. Also, their attitude toward their asthma conditions improved. Massage therapy performed with the child in a prone position is not recommended during an acute asthma episode, since lying down can make it more difficult to breathe. Working on certain acupressure points with a child seated can, however, open up bronchial pathways during an attack.
Massage therapy is an effective long term treatment because it reduces the stress response.
There are massage classes throughout the country through which parents can learn appropriate techniques. There are many kinds of massage. Because massage therapy for asthmatic children is not yet a widely practiced method of managing asthma , the hardest part of getting started might be finding a CMT with experience in this application. Perhaps you can find a reputable CMT in your area through your primary health care practitioner, or through a local association dedicated to asthma awareness and education. But if not, your best bet might be to contact the American Massage Therapy Association.