Acupuncture is often considered only for adults, but it is also safe for children with chronic pain or other issues. This treatment helps activate the body’s ability to heal itself. You may see immediate effects when your child starts acupuncture. However, it usually takes several sessions to see significant improvements.

The benefits of acupuncture build up over time, so your child will feel better with each session. You can choose acupuncture as an outpatient or inpatient treatment, depending on your needs. You should work with a qualified acupuncturist with the proper training, certification, and license for the best outcomes.

Understanding Acupuncture for Babies and Children

During acupuncture, a trained practitioner places tiny needles into the skin at specific points on the body. Practitioners have used acupuncture for thousands of years. It stimulates the brain and releases chemicals that enhance the body’s natural healing abilities.

Traditional Chinese medicine takes a comprehensive view of health and healing. The goal is to help the body find a healthy balance of energy. Instead of addressing a specific issue like toe pain or headaches, the focus is on the entire body to tackle the underlying cause. Resolving the root issue improves the related symptoms as well.

Many parents are often skeptical of acupuncture for children because they think their children fear needles. They assume that no child would enjoy this traditional Chinese practice.

However, most parents are unaware that needle insertion is often used for older children, usually those over eight years old. Acupuncturists often use alternative methods like massage or specialized tools for younger children under eight.

If a child is older than eight and is willing to try acupuncture, the acupuncturist will start with a few needles, usually around four, and gradually add more in future sessions. Children tend to feel more at ease after a few treatments.

Pediatric Acupuncture Treatment

When treatment begins, an acupuncturist will first try to understand the child’s condition through careful observation and questions. They will diagnose the child using traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). The treatment for children is quite different from that for adults. Depending on the child's age, it is quicker, lasting from a few seconds to 15 minutes. Practitioners spend most of the time gathering information and ensuring the child feels comfortable.

Pediatric acupuncturists use a gentle needling technique and the smallest silicone-coated needles, about the size of a hair, for young patients. They recognize that not all children are willing to have needles. No acupuncturist will force a child to use needles, and various non-needle techniques are available. These methods are simple and painless and provide similar benefits to acupuncture.

One of these techniques is moxa, which involves gently warming specific acupuncture points. Acupuncturists may also provide laser pens for treating acupuncture points, offering a needle-free option.

Babies and children typically respond quickly to both needle and non-needle treatments like Shonishin. They often feel significant relief from symptoms right away or shortly after treatment. For chronic conditions, improvement is usually gradual.

The number of treatments required varies for each child and depends on several factors, including the condition, the TCM diagnosis, and overall health. More straightforward issues may require one to ten sessions, while more complex situations might require ten to twenty or more. Practitioners tailor treatments to each child’s needs and adjust them based on their progress.

Shonishin Pediatric Acupuncture

Shonishin is a Japanese method for treating children, where “sho” means little, “ni” means children, and “shin” refers to the needle. This approach emphasizes gentle, specialized, non-invasive techniques, making it comfortable and enjoyable for children. Even light treatments can lead to impressive results.

Shonishin techniques include rhythmic stroking, tapping, and pressing on the skin to provide various gentle stimulations. These methods help balance and strengthen the child’s vital energy and overall health. Acupuncturists typically perform treatments once or twice a week, and parents will learn specific techniques to support the treatment process at home.

Pediatric Tuina

Practitioners use pediatric tuina, a strong type of medical massage, to prevent illness or help a child recover from ongoing or sudden health issues. They perform it in clinics and teach it to parents.

The treatment mainly focuses on the child’s hands, forearms, back, and stomach. The massage is gentle and easy to perform, making it a great alternative to acupuncture and often a complement.

Pediatric tuina is generally suitable for children under 14 years old, but it works best for those under 6, including newborns, infants, and toddlers. Practitioners usually recommend a mix of pediatric tuina and acupuncture for children over 9 to achieve the best results.

Laser Acupuncture

Laser acupuncture is a gentle and effective substitute for traditional acupuncture, making it ideal for young children, older people, or those who feel anxious about needles.

Practitioners follow the same principles as traditional acupuncture. They assess the pulse and tongue and choose acupuncture points carefully. Instead of needles, they use a laser. This method has several benefits, including the following:

  • Aseptic.
  • Painless.
  • Non-invasive.
  • Free of reported side effects.

A low-level cold laser is pain-free and operates in the infrared spectrum. It can penetrate up to 3 cm into muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Laser light activates the mitochondria in the cells, boosting oxidation and replication. It also doubles the healing rate.

Low-level lasers are different from high-energy medical devices. High-energy lasers heat tissues during tattoo removal or wound cauterization. Low-level lasers are safe because they stimulate biological processes without heating tissues.

What Does Laser Acupuncture Involve?

The practitioner assesses the patient, selects the appropriate points, and stimulates each with a laser pen for 10 to 20 seconds. Most patients feel little or no sensation during the session. The lasers use pure wavelengths that do not create heat or friction, making this treatment safe and noninvasive.

Babies Respond Better to Acupuncture Than Adults

Many people are unaware that acupuncture and Chinese medicine are excellent treatment options for children. Our bodies naturally heal and regulate themselves. Young children often heal quickly due to their strong blood circulation and receptive energy, which explains why they usually respond faster to treatments than adults.

How Acupuncture Can Benefit Children

Parents need to recognize that acupuncture is a gradual process. Your child may not feel immediate relief after the first session and might even feel worse before improvement occurs. Issues like chronic pain can take time to address, as the body needs to adjust to restore balance. Acupuncture helps guide the body back to its normal functioning state, achieving balance, also known as homeostasis.

Here are some other issues that acupuncture can help treat in kids:

Skin Issues

Skin problems like acne, rashes, or eczema can be uncomfortable and impact a child’s self-esteem. Acupuncture can balance the child’s Yin and Yang.

Allergies

Allergies are common among children, even infants. Kids often develop allergies because their immune systems are very sensitive. Acupuncture can help regulate a child’s immune response and address various allergies and intolerances, including food, environment, and seasons.

Consider acupuncture before removing a meal from your child’s diet or limiting their time with pets.

Recovery From Injuries And Illnesses

Acupuncture can be a great option for helping your child heal after an injury or illness. It enhances the body’s natural healing abilities. This treatment is beneficial if your child takes longer to recover. If an injury or illness prevents your child from returning to school or their usual activities, acupuncture might be the solution they need.

Eating And Digestive Disorders

Your child’s eating habits can be difficult, especially if they develop an eating disorder. Many kids also face digestive issues. For example, colitis is common in infants, while toddlers often deal with frequent stomach aches. Other typical digestive problems include unexplained diarrhea and constipation.

The best treatment plan will depend on what is causing the issue. The acupuncturist will assess whether mental or physical factors are related to the eating or digestive problem. Acupuncture not only helps the child but also restores harmony within the family.

Sleep Disorders

Many parents find it hard to manage their children’s sleep issues. Some babies learn to sleep well over time, but sleep problems can last for years for others. Teenagers also often face sleep disorders due to anxiety, stress, and mood changes.

Acupuncturists look at various factors when addressing sleep disorders, such as trouble falling asleep, vivid dreams, or waking up too early. Good sleep is vital for a child’s health, and establishing a healthy sleep pattern can significantly benefit children of all ages.

Behavioral Issues

Children of all ages can show a variety of feelings. Some may act out to see how their parents react. However, inappropriate behavior might indicate deeper issues within the body. Acupuncture can help with sudden mood swings in children. Many kids see significant improvement after just one session. This treatment is beneficial for those who display intense anger or aggression at home or school.

Chronic Fatigue

Many people think fatigue is only physical, but it can also relate to mental and emotional problems. Acupuncture can address severe tiredness and the mental struggles that come with it. This treatment not only alleviates fatigue but also promotes long-term health.

Mental Health Issues

Acupuncture can be beneficial for children facing mental health challenges like depression and anxiety. These issues may arise unexpectedly or follow a traumatic experience. The treatment can also support children during stressful times, such as exams or auditions. Acupuncture helps reduce stress and restore balance, allowing children to feel cared for and regain confidence. Seeking acupuncture for your child can improve their decision-making, clarity, and determination.

Preparing Your Child For Acupuncture Treatment

The number of sessions and how often they occur will depend on your child’s needs. Usually, treatment starts with weekly sessions and becomes less frequent as symptoms improve. The first appointment may take an hour, while follow-up visits typically last about thirty minutes.

Ensure your child has a meal before the session on the treatment day. They should wear loose and comfy clothes. After the acupuncture, encourage your child to drink lots of water. They need to relax and avoid heavy activities afterward. Acupuncture can make some kids sleepy.

Possible Side Effects of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a natural and safe treatment that does not involve drugs. Acupuncturists use only sterile needles. A few patients might experience side effects, which can include:

  • Bruising or slight bleeding.
  • Drowsiness.
  • Worsening symptoms—if this occurs, let the acupuncturist know so they can adjust the treatment.
  • Weakness or fainting, especially if the child has not eaten before the first session.

In sporadic cases, specific points can stimulate trauma to internal organs, but trained acupuncturists know how to avoid this.

Do I Have to Change My Child’s Diet And Lifestyle Tips After Pediatric Acupuncture?

Making simple changes to your child’s diet can significantly improve their well-being. Sometimes, an acupuncturist may recommend avoiding certain foods during treatment. Adjusting sleep patterns or meal schedules can also have a significant impact. For some kids, adding regular exercise or reducing stress can be beneficial.

Acupuncture works best for those who are healthy and can recover quickly, making it particularly effective for children compared to older adults who have been unwell for a long time.

Does My Child Have To Be Unwell To Have Acupuncture?

A key principle of Chinese medicine is that preventing problems is better than treating them later. Some parents opt for regular acupuncture sessions to support their children’s health as they grow, while others seek acupuncture to assist their children with specific illnesses or health concerns.

Find a Skilled Acupuncturist Near Me

If acupuncture or traditional Chinese medicine could help your child, the ideal step is to book an appointment with an acupuncturist. They will assess your child’s needs and suggest the most suitable treatment.

For trustworthy acupuncture services for children in Torrance, CA, contact Trinity Acupuncture. Our experienced acupuncturists work with both adults and kids. We are proud to be a preferred choice for treating babies of all ages using acupuncture. Our clients appreciate our quality services and reasonable prices. Call us at 310-371-1777 to talk to one of our acupuncturists.