Treating Children with Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an effective treatment for various conditions in children, although it’s not widely practiced. Many parents and practitioners hesitate due to children’s common fear of needles. Convincing a child to undergo needle-based treatment can also be challenging. However, skilled acupuncturists build trust with young patients, creating a positive experience and ensuring safe, effective care.
Is Acupuncture Safe For Children?
One of the first concerns that parents have regarding any treatment for their children is the question of safety. Limited studies confirm acupuncture’s safety for children, with side effects typically mild, such as slight pain, nausea, or crying. Compared to other medications and treatments commonly used for children, acupuncture’s side effect profile is equally or less severe and less frequent, making it a safe, effective option.
Conditions Treated In Children
Acupuncture treats a wide range of conditions in children, including allergies, migraines, and ADHD. Children often report greater improvement with acupuncture, either alone or combined with traditional treatments, compared to mainstream medical approaches. For example, in
children with amblyopia, significantly greater improvement was seen in children given three months of acupuncture in comparison to children who wore an eye patch for three months.
Linking Acupuncture and Mainstream Medicine
Acupuncture for children has even been endorsed and practiced by major mainstream medical institutions. The Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, has a specific children’s acupuncture clinic. At Children’s Hospital, specially trained practitioners address needle anxiety in children while treating conditions like asthma, cancer-related pain, and sickle cell anemia with acupuncture. This esteemed medical institution’s endorsement strongly affirms acupuncture’s safety and high effectiveness for pediatric care.
Acupuncturists invest extra effort to build rapport with children compared to adults, but the treatment’s effectiveness is undeniable. By explaining, demonstrating, and maintaining a soothing demeanor, practitioners skillfully work with children, relieving various conditions and restoring the flow of Qi.
