Gentle Bodywork for Kids with ARFID, Feeding Aversion, or Reflux
Feeding challenges in children can be complex, emotional, and often misunderstood—especially when traditional medical models don’t offer full relief. Whether your child has ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), feeding aversions, or digestive discomfort like reflux, bodywork can be a powerful (and gentle!) addition to their care.
At Same Stars Wellness, we approach pediatric feeding concerns with compassion, curiosity, and a trauma-aware lens. Our goal? To help kids feel safer and more comfortable in their own bodies, while supporting families with practical, evidence-informed tools.
🧠 What’s Going On Beneath the Surface?
Feeding issues often have more to do with the nervous system than just "picky eating." Kids who’ve had painful reflux, sensory overload, or traumatic medical experiences may develop strong physical and emotional responses to eating.
Common signs we see:
Refusal of entire food groups or textures
Gagging, coughing, or discomfort while eating
Extreme anxiety around meals
Poor weight gain or nutritional concerns
Diagnosed reflux or post-NICU feeding issues
🤲 How Gentle Bodywork Can Help
We support kids using safe, non-invasive approaches that calm the nervous system, reduce physical tension, and rebuild positive associations with eating.
Craniosacral Therapy (CST)
CST is a gentle hands-on method that supports the craniosacral system (which includes the brain, spinal cord, and surrounding membranes). For kids with feeding issues, CST can help:
Improve vagal tone (critical for digestion and regulation)
Release jaw and throat tension
Calm the fight/flight response tied to eating
Massage Therapy
Pediatric massage can soothe abdominal discomfort, aid in digestion, and support a more regulated nervous system. For kids with reflux or abdominal tension, this can make a big difference in comfort.
Occupational Therapy (OT)
We also work closely with pediatric OT to support interoception (internal body awareness), oral-motor patterns, and emotional regulation—often the missing pieces in feeding care. OT can help children tolerate food-related sensations, develop mealtime routines, and feel more in control.
Our team creates a plan that fits your child—whether they’re a baby just starting solids or a school-aged kid navigating ARFID.
💛 You’re Not Alone—And Your Child Deserves Care That Feels Good
We know how exhausting and emotional this journey can be for families. That’s why we centre safety, consent, and connection in every step of our care.
If your child is struggling with feeding, reflux, or mealtime anxiety, reach out. You are not failing. This is hard—and we’re here to help.
👉 Book a pediatric appointment or connect with our team to learn more.
📚 Further Reading & Resources
How Craniosacral Therapy Supports Pediatric Feeding – Upledger Institute
Pediatric Feeding & Swallowing Clinic – Alberta Health Services
Families are always welcome to reach out to us with questions or for individualized care—your child’s comfort and confidence matter here.
