Acupuncture is great for children.
Children are very responsive to the acupuncture needles and often show great improvement after a treatment. Acupuncture is fantastic for many childhood illnesses like coughs, fevers, ear infections, bed wetting, digestive issues, colic, allergies, ADD and ADHD. And more and more research proves that acupuncture is safe for kids.
But many parents worry that their kids will hate the needles. They want to avoid a treatment that is traumatic and difficult.
How do you give a child a treatment which they may not like?
The answer is that you do it kid style.
Babies and Toddlers
My daughter had her first acupuncture treatment when she was just a day old, before we even left the hospital. She has never cried during an acupuncture treatment. She has also never had an acupuncture needle inserted into her. For babies and toddlers there are non-needle techniques that can be used because they respond so well to treatment and do not need the extra stimulation of the needle. In instances where needles are used they are in and out fairly quickly and the child does not even notice it going in. Babies can often be treated while you hold them in your arms or on your lap.
Older Kids
Once kids start to reach the age of 7 or so the needleless techniques may not be enough for them. Therefore, a strong relationship with lots of trust is very important for older children. Many older kids have had experiences with painful procedures in doctor’s offices and they are rightfully apprehensive. I will reassure them about the treatment and make sure they feel very safe. I will answer all their questions.
Teenagers
Teenagers are old enough to have their own opinions—and they don’t always match yours. Teens may be skeptical of acupuncture because of stories they have heard in the media. Sometimes they don’t want to like something their parents recommend. I will take time to discuss their fears and concerns. I will give them background information so they feel informed and empowered about their own health. I will never give a treatment that your teen doesn’t want and I’ll support them in making positive choices about their health.
Acupuncture is a great fit for kids. Sometimes we need to be creative to make the treatment work, but kids respond well and, with a little reassurance, they find it is not uncomfortable. Give me a call if your child could use some acupuncture.
