Effect of Massage Therapy in Relieving Respiratory Problems in Children with Lower Respiratory Tract Infection

Background: Respiratory tract infections are the most widespread diseases among children 
throughout the world. In addition to the medical treatment of respiratory tract infections, 
massage is one of non-pharmacological techniques utilized to optimize respiratory system. 
Massage therapy consists of five steps: effleurage, petrissage, tapotement, friction and 
vibration which improves lung function and promotes relaxation. The study aimed to 
evaluate the effect of massage therapy in relieving respiratory problems in children with lower 
respiratory tract infection. Subjects and Method: A quasi-experimental research design 
was performed on sixty children aged between 3-6 years who admitted to Chest Inpatient Unit 
of Pediatric Medical Department at Tanta Main University Hospital. They were divided into 
two groups. Control group who received traditional treatment and the intervention group who 
received traditional treatment and massage therapy. Two tools were used for data collection: 
Sociodemographic characteristics of children which include two parts and Children' 
respiratory outcomes record related to massage therapy. Results: It was found that 
respiratory status of children in the intervention group had improved from sever to mild after 
the third day of massage therapy. Conclusion: Application of massage therapy improved 
oxygen saturation and respiratory distress in children with lower respiratory tract infection.
Recommendation: Massage therapy ought to be added into nursing care for children with 
lower respiratory tract infection.