Blocked Tear Duct Massage | Newborn

The nasolacrimal duct is a narrow tube that connects the lacrimal sac to the nasal cavity. In newborns, the duct is often membranous and not fully canalized, making it prone to obstruction. The duct's obstruction can lead to a backup of tears, causing the eye to become watery, red, and swollen.

Blocked Tear Duct (Dacryostenosis) - Boston Children's Hospital blocked tear duct massage newborn

The technique for performing the massage, often referred to as the Crigler method, is straightforward but requires precision and gentleness. Before beginning, the parent must ensure their hands are thoroughly washed to avoid introducing bacteria to the infant’s eye. The infant should be in a calm, preferably supine position. Using the tip of a clean pinky finger, the parent locates the lacrimal sac, situated at the corner of the eye near the bridge of the nose, slightly below the inner corner. The nasolacrimal duct is a narrow tube that