Massage mat description. Orthopedic rug for children: indications for use

- an unpleasant disease that is easier to prevent than to treat. Make sure that the baby's arch of the foot, ankle is correctly formed, preferably from the moment when the baby begins to take the first steps. And in this case, and if the child has already been diagnosed with flat feet, modern developments will come to the aid of parents - orthopedic puzzle mats. Let's talk about them in more detail.

What it is

At first glance, mats for the prevention and treatment of flat feet are a fairly simple and uncomplicated design. It is a floor covering with a relief protruding "pattern". The puzzle mat from flat feet is a modular design, which consists of squares of the same size, assembled together like a puzzle.

If we consider this invention of mankind in more detail, it becomes clear that in terms of the degree of impact, the mat is in no way inferior to expensive massage procedures in an expensive clinic. The protruding relief on the squares has a targeted effect on important active points of the foot, which improves blood circulation. lower extremities, accelerates lymph flow, massages muscles and ligaments, and also helps the child learn to step on different parts of the foot, while maintaining body balance in space.

Thus, the rug replaces several expensive wellness treatments at once. The advantage is that you don’t have to go anywhere, you can practice on the rug at home.

In addition, the child will not be burdened by the need to undergo certain medical procedures, because it is fun to play gymnastics, exercises, and just play on the rug in a playful way.

Rugs are made of their multi-colored bright materials. The invoice can be different - "Cones", "Shells", "Pebbles", "Pebbles", "Grass", "Thorns" and so on. The modular design makes it possible to combine different coatings in a wide variety of options - "Cones" with "Grass" or "Pebbles" with "Spikes". The number of options will depend on the number of modules - 2,4,6,8,12,16 or more if you want to create a large treatment surface.

The effectiveness of the impact of such flooring has long been appreciated by orthopedic doctors. They see the result personally - before buying a rug and six months after that. Light forms of flat feet can be defeated quickly enough. In more serious forms of the disease, orthopedic puzzles help as part of a comprehensive treatment.

Varieties

All foot massage mats are divided into two main types:

• Mats for prevention. They are made from softer materials that gently stimulate active points and have a positive effect on activity through acupuncture. internal organs, nervous system, improve the blood supply to the baby's legs, contribute to the proper formation of the feet.
• Treatment mats. Such puzzles are made from denser and harder materials, with more embossed textures, because the main task of the product is to correct the foot and ankle if something has already gone wrong in their development.

How to choose a mat for a child?

Regardless of which rug is needed - preventive or therapeutic - you should start choosing such a product with a visit to an orthopedist. If there are no foot pathologies, then the doctor will tell you which rugs are optimal for given age and feet for preventive purposes. If there is flat feet, then the doctor will not only suggest models of rugs, but will also prescribe completely specific “drawings” of the relief. One child will benefit from only "Grass" or "Pebbles", and another - only "Cones" or "Thorns".

Today, massage foot mats in a huge assortment are presented in online stores. Experts recommend purchasing therapeutic varieties only in specialized orthopedic salons.

Preventive models can be bought in a children's store and ordered via the Internet, but it is advisable to choose products from reputable manufacturers.

Pay attention to the colors, it is important that the rug is not only useful, but also interesting for the baby. You should not choose too hard textures for a child under 3 years old, walking on which will cause pain to the baby. It will only scare away the crumbs. You can order several modules with a soft texture - to start classes, and several - with a hard one, in order to gradually introduce these puzzles into the rug, when the baby's legs get used to walking on a new surface.

Quality material is very important for the health of the child. The product must have certificates of quality and conformity. The modules should not emit a strong chemical smell, which may indicate a fake, low-quality material. You should not take too few modules, because the rug should be of such an area that the child can not only stand on it, but also walk, run, sit, jump, do gymnastics. Modules can be purchased gradually, as needed, expanding and supplementing the rug with new elements.

Popular Models

The abundance of producers will surprise parents and may plunge them into some confusion. In fact, many firms, both Russian and foreign, represent high-quality and inexpensive products. FOSTA and ORTO have proven themselves the most well:

• FOSTA- this is a large assortment of orthopedic modular rugs of varying degrees of rigidity and a wide variety of textured "drawings". For the treatment and prevention of flat feet, experts most often recommend the F-0810 model. It is sold in a complete set of 8 modules, later you can buy additional elements from the same manufacturer. The average cost of an eight-module set is about 1500 rubles.

• Russian manufacturer "ORTO" offers a large selection of mats for babies from their first steps and for teenagers who need correction of foot and gait pathologies. There are exclusively preventive models - "Baby", "First Steps", and there are models for treatment and prevention - "Universal", "Mix". Price category - from 1000 to 2500 rubles, depending on the number of puzzle modules.

You can consider rugs from manufacturers such as Trives, Puzzle 1+, as well as the traditional Lyapko orthopedic rug, developed by reflexologist Nikolai Lyapko.

Usage Tips:

• You should not start exercising on the rug with a child who has not yet reached the age of one. For small feet, this can be very painful.
• Children with wounds and eczema on the legs, as well as with diseases that are expressed by a violation of the vestibular function, should not be engaged for a long time on such a surface. The child may fall and be injured.
• The time of classes on the mat should be increased gradually - from 3-4 minutes to 20-25 minutes. If the baby becomes sick and uncomfortable, you should interrupt the lesson, let him get off the mat and rest a bit.
• Use the applicator with bare feet.

• The first few sessions should include simple exercises - walking on the mat, lifting on toes with a roll on the heels. Gradually, the task should be made more difficult for the child - to introduce marching, walking in single file, jumping. An orthopedist who knows all the features of a child's foot can suggest an individual set of exercises for parents.
• In no case should you force a child to practice on an orthopedic massage mat. This will only cause fear and a strong rejection of textured puzzles as such. Joint exercises on the mat are useful. It is important that the process of treatment and prevention gives the child joy and pleasure.
• Don't expect instant results. On the rug, you should practice systematically, daily, and then in a few months it will be possible to pleasantly surprise both the doctor and yourself.

Mats do not require special care. It is enough to wipe them with soapy water and wipe dry once a week.

How to do it yourself?

Making a massage mat with your own hands is as easy as shelling pears. The most difficult thing is to find a large number of objects on which the child will have to walk and run. To do this, craftsmen use large buttons, soda caps, large beans (beans, for example), as well as flat stones, which many bring from the sea "as a keepsake", chestnut fruits.

On the main section of a dense fabric, all these “riches” should be placed in sectors - soft materials should alternate with hard ones, large ones with small ones. Cereals and beans are sewn into linen bags and sewn onto the desired sector. Buttons are simply sewn to the main fabric. It is advisable to pre-drill the stones so that they can be easily sewn on. In general, a flight of fancy and a large number of different trinkets - and a unique exclusive rug is ready.

The disadvantages of such home-made designs are non-compliance with safety regulations. One of the small items may come off, and an inquisitive baby may swallow or inhale it.

In addition, when making a rug with your own hands, it is difficult to take into account all the recommendations of an orthopedist for correcting gait or foot height. But for a preventive rug, self-sewn knick-knacks are enough.

In the next video you will find an overview of the massage orthopedic puzzle mat for children.

Massage mat for children is a medical product, the use of which helps to eliminate mild congenital defects in the formation of the musculoskeletal system, and also prevents the development of flat feet. When it right choice and application, the following beneficial effects are achieved:

• correct formation of the arch of the foot in a child;
• providing optimal load and skin toning;
• strengthening joints and beneficial effects on developing bones;
• stimulation of normal blood flow;
• training of the muscles of the foot and lower leg;
• proper development of ligaments;
• elimination of fatigue.

The main function of the orthopedic massage mat is the prevention of such a disease as flat feet and other defects in the development of the foot in a child, preventing their further development. It also prevents the development of osteochondrosis and scoliosis.

Parents should be aware of how to choose a massage mat to get the most out of it.

Indications for use of the massage mat

The recommendation for the use of this type of medical device is issued by a pediatric orthopedist. Also, a specialized specialist will be able to advise which orthopedic mat to choose for a child in each case. The main indications for its appointment are:

• flat feet in any form;
• complex or individual violation of the jogging, spring, balancing functions of the foot;
• violations in the distribution of the load on the foot of the child;
• the appearance of foot deformity or the progression of existing disorders;
• violations in the formation of the child's gait.

Contraindications include the presence of foot fungus, as well as any skin damage. In other cases, there are practically no contraindications.

The action of the massage orthopedic mat is based on its special relief structure, which is formed by many convex elements that have a special shape and a certain size. These elements act on the surface of the foot while the child is walking or standing on the mat. The most positive effect is achieved with the systematic performance of massage in accordance with the recommendation of a doctor.

Types of massage mats

To choose the right massage mat, you must first determine its optimal type. There are the following main types of these products:

• Rugs. Separate products that have protrusions of different shapes and heights. These protrusions provide impact on individual areas of the foot with the required effort. As a result, micro-contractions of the foot muscles are stimulated, which provide a positive effect.
• Puzzles. A set of small elements with figured locks on the edges, from which you can assemble a massage cover of the desired area and shape. Allows you to create a coating that combines areas with different type relief. They provide an opportunity to conduct classes in a playful way that is interesting for children.
• Hemispheres ("hedgehogs") and balancing discs. Volumetric figures filled with gel or air, with convex massage elements. The shape of the products allows you to provide the best contact with the foot to achieve the maximum beneficial effect. An additional benefit from classes is the development of the vestibular apparatus and improved coordination.

How to choose a massage mat

In order for the product to have the most beneficial effect and no harm, you need to know how to choose an orthopedic mat for children. It is necessary to take into account several important points including the age of the child. Exercises on an orthopedic mat can cause some discomfort and slight pain that small children do not tolerate well. Therefore, the smaller the child, the softer the rug should be. For babies under 3 years old, rubber models are better suited. For children over 3 years old, you can already choose silicone.

Before buying a product, the child should be placed on the mat to check how convenient and comfortable it is for him. The bright and colorful design of the product will help arouse interest in the exercises in young children.

The material of the mat should be elastic enough to provide the required depth of the foot. In addition, you need to make sure that the material is easy to clean and dry. An unpleasant pungent odor should not come from it, it should not stain the legs during classes. The relief elements of the rug must be strong enough and securely attached to the base.

Let's talk about the importance of foot massage for young children. And also about what will help us in this best of all - about massage mats that can help the crumbs grow active, vigorous and healthy. We will learn how to choose correctly, as well as make a massage mat for children with our own hands.

Children are encouraged to walk barefoot on various surfaces - grass, warm earth, sand - massaging your legs and developing your gait. In big cities, where everything is covered with asphalt and paving stones, as well as at home, where there is only a place for a carpet laid on a laminate, it will not be possible to give the child a full development. That is why pediatricians recommend using a massage mat, because it is a great helper for parents in maintaining the health of the baby.

Description of the massage mat and what is its use

A massage mat for children is not a toy on which a child learns to walk. This is a very useful device, thanks to which the baby will receive enough useful exercises to strengthen not only the musculoskeletal system, but also health in general.

At its core, a rug is a base made of silicone, rubber or PVC, covered with a variety of reliefs. It may contain tubercles, pimples or bulges that will affect the foot from pressing it.

These rugs come in a variety of shapes, colors and uses. But their goal is always the same - to give the baby a full foot massage.

They are produced in the form of bright squares and rectangles, turtles, cartoon characters and butterflies, decorating the floor of the nursery and attracting the attention of the crumbs.

If we delve into the essence of the issue, then the massage mat:

• trains muscle tissue baby,
• massages both legs at the same time, giving the same load,
• carries out the prevention of scoliosis, flat feet, hip dysplasia, as well as other diseases of the musculoskeletal system,
• eliminates the primary symptoms of colds,
• improves mood thanks to bright colors and game form.

How and when to use a massage mat at home

It is not enough just to buy a rug and put it on the floor, hoping that the baby will understand its main function. You need to engage in it regularly, but only so that the baby perceives it as a game, and not as something obligatory and not interesting.

At first, it will be enough to put the child on the mat. Do not demand any action from him, let him just stand and get to know his new friend. Let him tactilely get used to the relief under his feet and listen thoughtfully to his body. It is very important that the baby himself understands that the rug is his friend and will help him, not harm him.

Over time, start moving and walking on the mat. At first, a small gap will be enough - up to 5 minutes per lesson. Do not overdo it with the number of approaches. In the first years of life, a couple of minutes of walking on the mat no more than three times a day is enough. Then your baby will not have time to get tired. Gradually, you can increase the time spent on the mat. And also, when the baby will feel more confident, let him run on the surface, somersault or crawl.

Please note that if you have chosen a rug with several types of surface, then you can only walk on it in one direction - from small bumps to larger ones, and then return to the beginning on the floor, and not on the rug.

The baby and his foot need time to recover. And if you change direction, then his legs will receive only stress instead of benefit, and next time he will no longer want to play on such a rug.

How to choose the right massage mat for children

Nowadays, there are so many rugs that it is difficult to choose just one. And given that the variety is not only in price and colors, inexperienced parents can make a big mistake in choosing the right massage mat for children.

In order for the mat to help your baby, you need to consider several factors:

• size,
• surface,
• filling.

It is quite logical that what older child, the larger the area should be the size of the rug itself. If a baby who has just learned to stand will feel comfortable on a rug up to 50x50 cm in size, then older children will not be interested in playing on such a small surface. After all, they need to move, which means that you should immediately consider for how long you want to get an assistant in the development of children's health.

As we have already said, most massage mats are made of rubber, silicone or PVC. This affects the density of the rug, its stability and durability.

Do not forget that by purchasing rugs made from natural materials, you also give safety. After all, they are non-toxic and more wear-resistant, while synthetic ones quickly lose their functionality and can harm the baby if, for example, he wants to try it on a tooth.

Do not write off the strength of the surface. After all, popular rubber massage mats may be too dense and hard for the delicate feet of the crumbs. And PVC rugs, on the contrary, will be so soft that they will wash out over time and lose their preventive properties.

That is why when choosing a massage mat, pay attention to what they are made of and how they are combined. After all, it is best to give preference to precisely those rugs on which different fillings are provided.

So they can have a harder area with large bumps that stimulate points on the foot, and next to it there will be a soft relaxation zone where the baby can rest his legs.

This is done so that the baby can always rest if he gets tired of walking on a relief surface or feels discomfort. It will also push him to get to the end of the mat.

Therefore, before carrying the rug to the checkout, ask yourself the following questions:

• how long do i plan to use it?
• Do I need a cheap or safe mat?
• Will my baby walk on such hard terrain?

And only after you can accurately and completely answer these questions, you can complete your search.

Orthopedic mat or massage mat? What are the differences and similarities?

Despite the fact that all this time we have been talking only about massage mats, it is worth remembering that there are also orthopedic mats for children. And, even though most often they are not separated, or even confused, we still want to figure out - is there a difference in them?

At first glance, both rugs perform the main function - the formation of the correct gait and the musculoskeletal system of the baby, but if you dig deeper, there will be differences:

• a massage mat is used regularly and is aimed at preventing not only diseases of the musculoskeletal system, but also to maintain muscle tone, improve blood circulation, and an orthopedic mat is used for treatment,
• structurally, an orthopedic rug is always divided into several sections. It can simultaneously accommodate surfaces with imitation of grass, rocky terrain or other irregularities, while the massage mat can be completely covered with one relief.

Therefore, most of the combined or typesetting rugs are precisely orthopedic, bearing a therapeutic effect, and not just a pleasant massage on the feet of your crumbs.

But still main similarity of all rugs in their goal of helping parents raise healthy children.

You can clearly understand how an orthopedic mat for children works and what its benefits are in the video review Baby Nelly:

DIY massage mat

Creating a rug yourself is much more budgetary than buying a similar one in a store. And therefore, we suggest that you arm yourself with everything you need and create an orthopedic rug with your own hands.

Basic requirements for a do-it-yourself rug

At different ages, with different physical activity and with different conditions, we need completely different rugs. It is necessary to think carefully, what is the goal we are pursuing?

Massage mats created by parents on their own are also divided into types. So these days there are:

• massage mats made from natural materials,
• massage mats from sewing accessories, as well as improvised materials,
• textile rugs, which at their core most often have some kind of filler,
• combined rugs (which are most often referred to as orthopedic).

As you can see, a massage mat can be made from anything. In addition, it is very important to know a few basic requirements for rugs, so that upon completion of this, you will not be disappointed with the result:

• the elements of the massage mat should not cause pain, so we recommend that you exclude any objects with sharp corners from the materials, as this will not bring any benefit, and even scare the baby away from classes,
• if you plan to make the rug combined, then be sure to provide relaxation zones - uncovered areas on which children's feet will rest from the load,
• the size depends not only on your desire, but also on the age of the fidget. If you are creating a massage mat for children who have just stood up, then a small square will be enough for you, on which he will only stand or shift from foot to foot. Older, and therefore active children will get bored on such a rug, so they need to provide a larger area for them.

If you want to save your energy and materials when creating a massage mat, you can make it either immediately big size, or sew to the main and additional Velcro sections to add new sections if necessary.

In general, orthopedic and massage mats for children according to the method of creation and assembly can be divided into:

• stuffed, where all the massage elements are inside, in sewn pillows or bags,
• type-setting, where elements are sewn, glued or otherwise attached to the surface.

Massage mat made of natural materials

The most common way to massage the feet of any person, regardless of age and height, is to walk along a rocky beach. Pebbles of different sizes and shapes put pressure on the nerve endings of the leg better than any massage therapist and does not require any effort from us, except for a uniform step.

• electrical conductivity due to quartz in the composition of the stone allows you to give a weak and useful electromassage,
• natural, non-toxic origin,
• smooth, rounded shape, not harmful to children's feet,
• availability

These pebbles are great for creating massage mats, either simple single material or as a patch on a combo mat.

First, decide on a base. It is very important to remember that pebbles are an unyielding material that does not change shape and therefore is solid and does not play along with the foot. Therefore, it is not enough just to take a piece of dense fabric and stick stones on it. It is very important that the base is soft enough to flex under pressure.

Therefore, we recommend sewing a pillow from two dense fabrics, and inserting several layers of padding polyester or foam rubber with a thickness of at least 15 mm inside. Such a layer will be enough so that when pressed, the pebble deepens a little, succumbing and softening the baby's step.

After preparing the base, you can also take on the attachment of the pebbles themselves to the rug. Don't forget that we are creating for children - big fidgets and naturalists - so the glue must be non-toxic, but strong.

PVA is considered the safest glue, but it can only be used if your base is made of cotton, otherwise the pebbles will periodically fall off, and this creates a risk of being tested on the tooth.

It will be more effective to use building glue or universal polymer glue. However, do not forget that then there should be a lot of pebbles in order to close all access to the surface with glue, or you will have to point the adhesive material onto the pebbles so that it does not show up because of it.

You can clearly understand how to create a simple but effective pebble massage mat thanks to a detailed video master class from Guidecentral English:

However, not only pebbles are great for creating massage mats. If your home loves nuts, then you can create a great fidget leg trainer.

Walnut shells, glued upside down to the base, will give an excellent massage and therapeutic effect. These mats will develop the baby's foot and allow it to be more flexible.

Well, chestnuts will become an excellent material for an orthopedic rug. After all, besides the fact that they have the most suitable size and shape, they also emit useful, healing fumes.

They can be sewn onto a base, which will be the same in density and thickness as for a pebble rug. Or strung on a fishing line and put such beads on a carpet or thick carpet.

The only disadvantage of using chestnuts as the base material for an orthopedic rug is that they are not durable.

From long-term storage, and even more so from trampling, the shell will crack, and this not only causes discomfort for the children's foot, but also provokes the release of tannins contained in the nut kernels, which is unsafe for the health of the crumbs. It is worth monitoring their condition and saying goodbye to them in time.

Massage mat made of fittings and improvised materials

And yet, not everyone has the opportunity to collect nuts or pick up pebbles from the sea, and there is an abundance of sewing accessories in the house of every needlewoman.

First of all, pay attention to the buttons. After all, they:

• are certified for chemical resistance, which means they are safe for our kids,
• durable and wear-resistant,
• are of different sizes and shapes.

First, choose a base. And here you have no restrictions, everything will go to work:

• old terry towels
• stool cushions,
• piece of carpet
• a sandwich made of cotton and synthetic winterizer, which is made by quilting masters.

Even a thick blanket will do! The main thing is that you have enough buttons and strength to sew them on.

Arrange them wisely. After all, if you randomly sew buttons in bulk, then you can not only not get the expected effect, but also harm.

Therefore, be guided by the following principles:

• do not allow large gaps between buttons,
• place small buttons closer to each other, forming footprints so that the baby puts his foot on them, sew large ones between the footprints.

However, you can create a massage mat for children with your own hands without the use of buttons; other improvised materials are also suitable.

sew on felt-tip pen cases and handles to the base, and here is a finished path in front of you, along which the baby will run fun and with interest.

Caps for 5 liter bottles will be excellent tubercles for a child's foot. Lay them out in the form of a pattern or arrange them in stripes depending on the size to increase the load on the baby's legs.

Sew on like buttons chocolate egg capsules.

Position on base wine corks. If they are not enough for a full-fledged rug, you can cut them into disks and sew them on.

Use sponges, knotted ribbons or artificial turf trimmings as material, sewing them onto a dense base.

Moreover, please note that the basis can be a thick towel that is no longer used for its intended purpose, a fleece blanket or a small piece of carpet.

Massage mat with fillers (textile mat)

One of the most effective massage mats for children are bulk. Their main feature lies in the fact that on the surface you will not find any reliefs, but to the touch they are much more pleasant and attractive even for an adult, like an anti-stress toy that you want to knead and iron.

Inside such a rug is not just foam rubber or a synthetic winterizer, inside there is a material that gives the same massage effect that is useful for a child's foot.

To create a bulk massage mat with your own hands, you will need:

• thick fabric,
• various filler,
• Velcro (optional)
• thread, scissors and a sewing machine.

For the base, you can take any fabric, even old jeans. The main requirement is wear resistance so that the mat does not tear during active use.

With the filler will have to tinker a bit. Most often, it is recommended to use cereals, but you can replace them:

• plant seeds,
• pits of small fruits (such as apricots or plums)
• cherry pits,
• wooden beads of different sizes.

But how the rug will look depends on the place in the house. After all, you can:

• sew a long track, start a line at the same distance from each other to make pockets, and after inserting the filler bags inside, sew everything up and arrange it with an oblique trim,
• sew separate bags, and then assemble them into one rug, moreover, it does not have to be square or rectangular, choose the shape yourself,
• sew a few pillows, and fasten them with Velcro sewn along the edge.

In the latter case, you can not only adjust and choose the size of the massage mat, but also change the combination of fillers. In addition, such a rug can always be put away in the closet or taken with you to visit, so that your baby does not get bored and spend time with benefit.

The most common and effective do-it-yourself massage mats can be called combined. They can use a huge variety of materials, which will only benefit children's legs. In addition, they have not only a preventive, but also a therapeutic effect. That is why they are often called orthopedic.

They got the name "combined" due to the fact that several zones with different relief can be located on one rug, which allows the child's foot to change the load and sensations from it.

Such rugs are both more difficult to perform and simpler at the same time. After all, a variety of material will go into work, and the sections will be smaller, which means that it will take less effort to put everything together. But its overall size will be larger and you need to take a very responsible approach to the combination of relief so as not to harm the baby.

The most common and simple orthopedic rug can be called a rug for two sectors - with pebbles and buttons, respectively. Even it has everything you need for the proper development of the foot, gait and spine.

Creating such a rug is very simple - take a suitable base (a piece of carpet or a thick towel is best) and divide it into two zones. They should be visually the same size so that the period of loading and relaxation for the foot is the same. Next, simply glue the pebbles on one section of the base and sew the buttons on the other.

Olga Platonova I am happy to share my experience in the video master class:

But more complex combinations of many sectors are more common:

• using available materials,
• with a combination of type-setting and bulk sections,
• themed rugs, on which children not only walk, but also learn something new.

The principle of creating such an orthopedic rug is only to sew sectors of the same size and sew a previously prepared relief to them. The basic set of materials will look something like this:

• base fabric,
• foam rubber or synthetic winterizer for sealing the base,
• cereals, seeds or bones for bulk sections,
• buttons, old felt-tip pens, pencils, beads and other accessories,
• corks, lids, sponges, capsules and containers from shoe covers,
• thread, needles and scissors.

The easiest way to create a rug is to arrange massage elements on one canvas. Its convenience and simplicity lies in the fact that you do not need a lot of effort to sew the base itself - just take a suitable piece of carpet, an old blanket or a large towel.

If you want to make the rug more neat and attractive, then take a bright fabric (cotton, calico or satin is best), cut the top layer out of it and sew massage elements to it, and then assemble a classic sandwich from two layers of fabric and a filler layer, like a quilt.

Yana Agayeva will be happy to tell us how to easily and conveniently arrange everything on a combined rug in her video master class:

If you want to sew the sections separately in order to alternate the typesetting sections of the rug with bulk ones, you will have to work a little. To begin with, you will need to tailor the required number of squares or rectangles - future sectors - sew on some massage elements, pour cereal and other filler into others, and then sew them all into one long track.

How to alternate relief and what is more suitable for your baby? The answer is only in your heart, because all children are different, and if some like to walk on the sand, then others will find such entertainment boring. And as a hint, we suggest looking at Ekaterina Kuzmina and being inspired by her combined rug, in which she used only improvised materials.

If you want to combine education and health in one rug, then you will love the idea of ​​​​creating a themed rug. After all, this way the baby will not only develop his musculoskeletal system, but also learn something new.

Try to sew an original rug with a river, a meadow and a house, or send your baby on a trip around the world, or even let go into space for a couple of minutes. And an excellent, understandable master class of the video channel will help us with this. Women's hobby:

The health of the baby is the main concern of parents. We all know that it is much more difficult to treat than to prevent the disease. This means that prevention must come first.

Massages and health groups are a great way out, but they require a lot of time and money, while a massage mat for children becomes a friend, helper and great game for several years to come!

Foot massage using a massage mat is an even simpler and more affordable method of influencing the acupuncture points of the foot to improve the body. All it takes is a mat and knowledge of a few exercises that are easy to remember.

Many of us are aware of the health benefits of regular . Despite the simplicity of this type, while walking, all the muscles of the body are included in the work, and, no less important, a natural foot massage occurs. The best natural foot massage occurs at a time that is not always possible for modern people.

And here specially developed massage techniques come to the rescue. We have already met with the method of direct impact on active stop points in the article "".

Today we will talk about another type of foot massage - massage with a massage mat, which:

It has the most complete effect on the entire foot, activating all the acupuncture points of the foot;

Improves the functioning of internal organs;

Strengthens and improves the functioning of the muscles, ligaments of the foot and lower leg;

Relieves muscle tension;

Improves blood circulation;

Prevents the appearance of flat feet, swelling and pain in the legs;

Improves the process of renewal of the skin of the feet, prevents the formation of corns and calluses;

Treats insomnia and chronic fatigue.

You can choose from a massage mat with hard sea pebbles, wooden or rubber spikes of various thicknesses, densities and heights. Also, exercises on the mat can be carried out in several stages, moving from one type of mat (with soft impact) to another (harder).

Foot massage technique with a massage mat

Lay the mat on a flat floor surface. Stand on the mat with bare feet and step from foot to foot while doing the exercises (see below). How long to do the exercises - it depends on how you feel. On average, it is 5-7 minutes. With the appearance of mild pain, the massage should be ended.

Exercises:

1. Start with simple exercise to gradually warm up the feet. Shift your body weight from one foot to another, focusing on different parts of the foot.

2. Roll smoothly from heel to toe. First with one foot, then with the other.

3. Stand with one foot on the heel, the other on the toe. Do rolls in opposite directions (one foot - from toe to heel, the other - from heel to toe). Gradually increase the amplitude.

4. Place your feet on the outer arch of your foot and stomp in place.

5. Stand up on your toes, drop on your heels. Repeat several times, increasing the height of the lift.

6. Squat down and stomp in place.

7. Stand on the mat on your toes, walk on your toes.

8. The same as in the previous exercise, only on the heels.

9. Raise your toes up and stay in this position for 3-5 seconds, then stand on your whole foot. Repeat the exercise several times.

There is another type of foot massage - the so-called Thai massage. When performing this massage, combinations of hands and special sticks are used. For this reason, it is impossible to independently carry out such a massage for your legs. The duration of the Thai massage procedure is not strictly limited: it is believed that the longer the better. The usual duration of the procedure is from one to several hours.

Thai massage helps to relax and cheer up at the same time. Like other types of foot massage, it stimulates acupuncture points and opens energy channels.

An effective, useful device will help to strengthen the health of the child, activate the body's defenses. Orthopedic foot massage mat for children is a delicate and, at the same time, noticeable effect on the biologically active points of the foot. The kid stood on the rug - the whole body received a positive effect.

Buy a bright rug for your son or daughter relief surface. Only 10-15 minutes of classes a day - and the child will certainly feel the healing power of soft spikes, pebbles, tubercles. Bright orthopedic rugs of original design are a game, treatment and prevention of various diseases.

What it is

The massage mat resembles a large puzzle of multi-colored pieces. Rectangles with an uneven surface are made of non-toxic, safe material: foamed polyethylene, carpet, rubber based on natural rubber.

What is the unusual rug for? The foot contains a projection of all organs. When walking, jumping, performing health-improving exercises on artificial "pebbles", "grass", "pebbles", non-contact organ massage is performed through sensitive points.

Benefit

Orthopedic products have many positive aspects:

• suitable for the treatment and prevention of flat feet, valgus foot;
• activate blood circulation, strengthen muscles;
• after exercise, the body feels the effect, as when walking barefoot on an uneven surface;
• a massage mat is entertainment, a game, a good mood for children;
• bright colors have a positive effect on the psyche;
• the product decorates the room;
• many models are disassembled into puzzles, take up little space;
• product care ensures cleanliness, the absence of microbes on the surface. Rubber, rubber, PVC surfaces can be easily washed with water, if desired, the surface can be disinfected;
• many products are reasonably priced.

Note! The pros and cons of orthopedic mats for children are always taken into account by doctors when they recommend a useful device in the treatment and prevention of certain diseases. Before buying a massage product, visit an orthopedist with your child, get advice on choosing the best model. The doctor will suggest exercises for a particular child, taking into account the state of the musculoskeletal system.

Indications for use

• asymmetrical walking;
• valgus deformity of the feet;
• flat feet.

Massage orthopedic mat is suitable for the prevention of foot developmental disorders, for the formation of strong muscles, the correct gait. Regular use will help create a physiologically acceptable arch of the foot.

Contraindications

You can not practice in the following cases:

• with scratches, cuts, damage, irritation of the skin of the feet;
• when a child has fungal diseases on the legs.

A useful device with an active massage effect does not harm the legs. Restrictions can only be found by an orthopedic doctor. Sometimes the doctor recommends a product with a certain surface (size of pebbles, nature of the material, more emphasis on convex surfaces or rubber "grass").

To maximize the benefits of exercising on the massage mat, the orthopedist advises that you should definitely come to the appointment with the child before buying. The doctor will check how developed the musculoskeletal system is, is it too early for the baby to practice. Most doctors recommend an orthopedic mat for babies after 1 year. Choosing a product with a suitable surface will bring maximum benefit to the baby's feet and the whole body.

How to carry out medical procedures

Doctors emphasize the positive effect of uneven surfaces on the biologically active zones of the foot. The purpose of orthopedic massage devices is the use for treatment and prevention. Acupuncture at home is not a myth, but the real effect of bright products that imitate various surfaces.

Orthopedists offer children a set of exercises of different levels:

• elementary. Each exercise lasts 5 minutes. Let the child calmly walk with a straight back, then on the outside and inside of the foot, then - rolling from heel to toe. The final stage- walking on toes, then on heels;
• intensive. First, a warm-up (calm walking with a straight back), then the baby should march in place, stretch, sit down slightly, walk along an uneven path. For a more active massage, a stand on one leg, jumping, light running is suitable.

Children can practice while sitting if they are a little tired. Check if the surface is too “prickly”, whether the baby is comfortable.

Useful exercises:

• connection of soles;
• flexion / extension of the toes;
• circular movements of the legs;
• foot massage by sliding on the mat back and forth.

An orthopedic product will benefit if parents remember a few rules:

• Before buying, a consultation with an orthopedist is required. There are so many models of massage mats for children in stores and on websites that it is difficult to find the best option without the help of a specialist;
• how smaller child, the softer the elements should be. Solid, fairly large tubercles are too active on a tiny foot of 1.5–2 years old, the baby may slip, fall;
• before three years products made of high-quality rubber are suitable for babies: flexible, soft surfaces delicately affect the delicate skin of the feet;
• after three years, children need a more active effect on the sole. It's time to replace the rubber surface with silicone. Elastic "villi", "pebbles" massage the feet well;
• ask the seller for a quality certificate, a hygienic conclusion. Choose a product from non-toxic materials, without harmful dyes;
• pay attention to the color of the product. For kids, choose bright, multi-colored surfaces, for older children, the “seabed”, “beach” or “forest path” option is suitable. It is easy to find products in the shape of a butterfly, heart, dolphin;
• be sure to consider the size of the surface. Too small a device will limit freedom of movement, will not allow the child to complete the entire set of exercises;
• find out how to care for an orthopedic mat. Look for a material that is easy to clean and dries quickly. Think about whether you can qualitatively wash not only the convex surfaces, but also the areas between the villi (rubber grass).

Massage orthopedic foot mat: an overview of popular models

Before buying, find out which products are recommended by orthopedic doctors. The characteristics of useful products with a massage effect for the development of the feet will help you choose the right model. The massage mat-applicator for children can only be used with the permission of the orthopedist.

Puzzle 1 plus

Features of children's orthopedic mat Puzzle:

• the rug consists of 8 modules of bright color;
• material - foamed polymer;
• The base layer is thicker than the standard model. The product is universal, even an adult can use it;
• suitable for the prevention and treatment of flat feet;
• included - a booklet with three types of useful exercises;
• suitable for babies from 1 year old;
• the average cost is 1200 rubles.

Sea bottom

Peculiarities:

• material - environmentally friendly rubber, the basis of which is rubber;
• walking on ledges replaces walking on pebbles;
• resembles a piece of the seabed with pebbles and short "algae";
• appearance - a circle of dark blue / blue with a diameter of 39 cm;
• product weight - 740 g;
• tolerates moisture well, can be used in a bath, pool or large basin;
• easy to wash, dry;
• country of origin - Russia;
• cost - 1070 rubles.

With rocks

Peculiarities:

• useful device has a rectangular shape;
• parents can easily choose interesting option suitable design (there are models of different colors);
• the design is easily folded for transportation;
• the material in properties resembles the coating "carpet";
• the fabric of the product along the contour is stitched with a special invisible seam. The device will not spread, will last a long time;
• the material is well washed under the shower;
• the pebbles are firmly soldered into the base: the baby can walk, jump, sit on the rug without the risk of spoiling the product and injuring himself;
• massage mat weight - 1.5 kg, thickness - 1 cm;
• dimensions: 100x40 cm, 150x100 cm;
• country of origin - Ukraine;
• the average price is 800 rubles.

Ortho

Features of Ortho orthopedic mat:

• material - dense rubber, the size of each puzzle - 25x25 cm;
• for maximum effect, a minimum set of 4 rectangles includes imitation of different surfaces: soft plus hard stones, grass, spikes;
• the cost depends on the number of parts: 4 puzzles - 900 rubles, 8 squares - 1700 rubles, 16 puzzles - 3600 rubles;
• suitable for the treatment of asymmetric walking, as an additional element in the treatment of valgus and varus feet, flat feet.

Fosta

Peculiarities:

• children's mat is suitable for high-quality foot massage;
• the model made of polyethylene foam has a pleasant color scheme, will decorate any nursery;
• the design consists of bright puzzle models;
• each zone has a different width and height of the relief. Presented is an imitation of pebbles, paths made of small pebbles, coarse sand;
• the product is well washed in soapy water. After removing dirt, be sure to wipe the surface;
• you can buy an orthopedic mat for children at an average price of 1000 rubles.

How to DIY

You do not trust manufacturers, often make useful gadgets for the development of children? A little diligence, and you will make an original orthopedic rug for children with your own hands.

What to do:

• prepare the base - dense, non-slip material;
• create several layers so that the legs do not freeze;
• think about which natural foot massagers to choose. Use objects without sharp surfaces;
• sew on the base large and medium buttons, pieces of rope, chestnuts, sponges, bags with cereals of different diameters;
• fasten objects well, check if the legs are clinging to the ledges. Frequently check to see if the artificial pebbles are securely held, re-fasten as necessary.