Pediatrics
With a history of children’s treatment that extends over 2,000 years, acupuncture and Chinese herbs include safe and effective systems for babies, children and young adults. The Journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Journal of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology have concluded the safety of acupuncture when administered by a qualified clinician. Generally, we treat children from 5 years and up but exceptions are made for toddlers and babies if the condition requires it and treatment is appropriate.
An NIH analysis found that, “Acupuncture is among the CAM therapies most frequently recommended by internists and family physicians and is currently practiced in over 140 hospitals in the United States.” Our clinical experience is aligned with the findings of an NIH study, which suggests, “most children tolerate acupuncture therapies well and view acupuncture as a positive experience.” They further state, “Given the low risk of deleterious side effects, acupuncture may serve to harmonize Traditional Western Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine as a means of promoting preventive care and symptom management for children.”Our practitioners have 50+ years of collective clinical experience, and our pediatric specialties include treatment for:
Allergies & asthma
ADD/ADHD
Food sensitivities
Dermatitis
Frequent colds & flus
Ear infections & otitis media
Growing pains
Chronic pain
Psoriasis, eczema, acne & other dermatological problems
Hives
Digestive disorders
Menstrual symptoms
Headaches & migraines
Stress & anxiety
as well as constipation in babies and sleep quality. Needles are not retained in infants or babies. To help older kids feel comfortable, we avoid terms like “acupuncture” and “needle” and call the treatment “tap-taps.” We provide needle-free treatments such as tui-na (pediatric medical massage), shoni-shin tools (non-invasive round treatment instruments), microcurrents, and painless laser acupuncture. For children who enjoy traditional treatments, we apply single-use, disposable needles.
For children with short-term illness—such as a cold or ear infection—one or two visits may be all they need. We recommend two visits weekly for two months if your child has more long-term health problems such as seasonal allergies, asthma, lowered immune system, ADD/ADHD, SPD, eczema, chronic headaches, anxiety, or other chronic conditions. This 2-month program includes:
Individualized Attention and Instruction
16 Acupuncture Treatments
Home Care Instruction for Parents
Acupuncture or Needle-Free Laser, Gentle Micro-Current, Shoni-Shin, Tui-Na, Gua Sha
Nutritional Support, Information, & Education
Natural & Effective Vitamins, Supplements and Herbs
Alongside TCM therapies, we teach parents home care including how and when to administer herbs, ointments and supplements, how to calm and regulate the child’s sleep patterns, and how to apply pediatric medical massage at home. Nutritional support is essential to healing—we suggest avoiding processed foods, sugar, artificial colors and flavors, and we make dietary suggestions based on the healing wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine and modern science. We also offer support in regulating eating habits and feeding picky eaters.
— Kathy M.
