By Dr. Charles J. Bock

Nasolacrimal Massage

Nasolacrimal massage is often recommended as part of the non-surgical management of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstructions (described in a separate handout). To understand how to properly perform nasolacrimal massage, it is important to remember that the blockage is usually at the far end of the nasolacrimal duct. The goal of nasolacrimal massage is to try to force the fluid in the duct through the thin membrane that is blocking it. Simply rubbing the area with your finger is not as helpful.

Step One: To start, place the side of your index finger (the side facing you middle finger) against the eyelids very close to the inner corner of the eye. Use your right hand for the right eye and your left hand for the left eye.

Step Two: Next, roll your finger toward the nose, so that the pad of the index finger is resting against the inside corner of the eye.

Step Three: Finally, roll from the tip of your finger downward, without lifting your finger.

These three steps should occur as one fluid motion. Perform this on the affected eye once with each diaper change.

When to call

Please call our office 503-656-4221 if you have any questions or if you think the problem is worsening.