Abstract:

Short stature in children represents a common growth and developmental disorder in pediatric practice, with its pathogenesis influenced by multiple factors including genetics, endocrine function, environment, and nutrition. External therapies of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), characterized by safety, non-invasiveness, and high compliance among pediatric patients, have emerged as critical clinical interventions. Through the retrieval and review of relevant domestic and international literature published in recent years, this article systematically summarizes the clinical application, mechanisms of action, and current research status of TCM external therapies for pediatric short stature, encompassing acupoint application of Chinese herbal patches, moxibustion, acupuncture, acupoint catgut-embedding, pediatric Tuina, auricular pellet pressing, and foot bathing with Chinese herbs. By analyzing the indications, clinical efficacy, and existing limitations of each therapy, the application characteristics and compatibility rules of different therapeutic modalities are concluded. The research findings reveal that various TCM external therapies can promote children's growth and development by regulating meridians and qi and blood, as well as adjusting visceral functions. This article comprehensively summarizes the progress of TCM external therapies in the treatment of pediatric short stature, which provides a literature basis for clinicians to select individualized treatment regimens based on syndrome differentiation, and also offers ideas for the standardized application and further in-depth research of these therapies.

Key words: Short stature, External therapies of TCM, Acupoint application, Moxibustion, Child