How to Massage Your Baby to Help With Gas or Colic

Support is on the way for parents of gassy and colicky babies. Instead of feeling helpless, use massage as a tool to support your baby during this difficult time.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

1. Reduce stimulation for your baby by dimming lights and reducing sounds.

2. Help your baby settle down, if upset, with either gentle, rhythmic pats or soft, rhythmic counting.

3. Wait at least 30 minutes after your baby has breast-fed or 1 hour after giving a bottle of formula before beginning massage.

4. Find a position for you that is comfortable. Be aware of your back.

5. Either cradle your baby on a pillow on your lap or position your baby on a towel or blanket in front of you.

6. Start the massage slowly with strokes and exercises, paying close attention to the baby's reaction to the touch and movement.

7. Gently fold the baby's knees up to the tummy (as far as is comfortable), hold for 15 to 30 seconds and release. Stroke legs gently.

8. Gently hold both of the baby's feet and move the legs one at a time, bending at the knees as if riding a bicycle for 30 seconds. Stroke the legs gently.

9. Bend the baby's legs at the knees, cross the legs, and rock side to side. Stroke the legs gently.

10. Comfort the baby before, during or after the massage as needed.

11. Understand that just 5 minutes of massage is a long time for a little baby.

Tips & Warnings

• Repeat the sequence at least three times, and try to do it twice during the day.
• Try to relax. Remember to breathe slowly and deeply. Your baby can feel your tension through your hands.
• It is especially important for parents of babies that are gassy or colicky to consult with the child's health care provider prior to the baby's first massage.

on 8/8/2006 Steps:
1. if your baby is standing next to you get so you are on your baby's right
2.with the heal of your hand pat your baby on the back
3if baby is sitting next to you
reach around to your baby's back and with the heak of your hand pat him or her on the back

on 11/22/2005 1. have baby stand in front of you
2. with both hands pat your baby on the back right between the shoulders
3. Repeat if nessicary