Acupuncture for Children

Why choose Chinese Medicine for your child?

Chinese Medicine is a one of the oldest forms of medicine practiced today. It is a safe and effective modality used to balance the body’s vital energy or Qi (pronounced chee). Energy circulates through a system of pathways called meridians. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views disease as a result of an imbalance or blockage of energy, which creates pain and illness.

I understand that as parents, there can be many difficult decisions to make for your child. Acupuncture and herbal medicine is a safe and effective therapy that limits the amount of drug and antibiotic use. Chinese medicine assists in building strong immune systems, while providing harmony and balance.

Traditional Chinese Medicine treats the root of the problem, rather than masking the symptoms, allowing for the body to naturally combat illness. Nutrition and lifestyle will also be evaluated to insure every aspect of your child’s health is addressed and treated.

What to Expect & Treatment Modalities

Generally, children respond quickly to treatment and results often occur immediately. The initial visit will consist of a consultation and a treatment. During the consult we will discuss overall health and diet. Diet is an important component. Often, making small modifications to the diet may radically change your child’s health. Follow up visits are generally 30-40 minutes. The number of treatments necessary will vary according to the condition being addressed.

For children under 7 years old, shonishin, a Japanese technique is commonly used. Shonishin is a non-invasive technique that uses small tools to stimulate the points and brush along the channels.

For children 10 years and older or children with more severe illnesses, acupuncture needles are used to activate the points. Other techniques include moxa, (also known as Ai Ye or mugwort) used as a heat modality and Tuina, a form of Chinese massage. Tuina is used to gently move energy through the meridians and release stagnation.

Herbal Medicine

Chinese herbal formulas are composed of various plants, roots, stems, seeds, shells, fruits and flowers. Each formula is unique and specifically created for the individual, depending on the disease cause and pattern presented. Traditionally, herbs are decocted into a tea. The herbs can also be ground into a powder form we which can be administered in food or taken as a tea. Powdered herbs are commonly given to children.

Conditions Treated

Chinese medicine is unique in that every treatment plan is made up specifically for the individual. For example, ear infections may be from a variety of causes, depending on the patient’s constitution and the pathologies involved. The most commonly treated conditions include:

• Viral infections
• Colic
• Ear infections
• Enuresis – bed wetting
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• ADD /ADHD
• Fever
• Recurrent colds/ flus
• Developmental Disorders
• Insomnia
• Digestive complaints