Acupuncture for children....what to expect

Acupuncture is a great therapy for children and babies. It can treat common illnesses such as gastroenteritis, fever, coughs and colds, colic, sleep problems, enuresis and many more. It is often assumed that needling would be very unpleasant for children. In fact this is not the case, as the needles are inserted quickly and removed immediately. Children respond very well  to acupuncture treatment, and they are very quick to appreciate the relief it brings from symptoms. Babies often won't even realise they have been needled. They are treated sitting on a parent's knee generally, so it doesn't seem such a clinical experience. Smaller children and babies have the option of using stick-on needles, which are embedded in a plaster and can be worn overnight, or for up to three days. These work very well on leg and arm points and can provide blessed relief from night time coughing, allowing everyone to get some sleep. Some children don't like the idea of needles, and there are still treatment options for them, such as auricular therapy. There is a micro-system of acupuncture points mapped out on the ear, and these can be stimulated using ear seeds, tiny magnetic balls attached to a plaster which can be worn for three days. These are a great therapy for seasonal allergies and asthma. They also add to the effect of body needles, and can be used to relieve acute symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. Although very powerful, earseeds are quickly forgotten by the wearer and they are easily removed and disposed of too. Stimulation of acupuncture points by pressure is another way to relieve symptoms of childhood illness, and Tuina massage can be used both to relieve symptoms and to strenghthen the immune system and prevent recurrent coughs and colds. The acupuncture points of the bladder channel, which runs along either side of the spine relate to all of the organs of the body, and can be stimulated in a pinching rolling tuina technique which, when performed regularly helps to strengthen children's defenses. These points can also be stimulated by cupping, guasha or moxibustion. Further information on these therapies can be found here and here. Electroacupuncture machines are generally used to add extra stimulation to a point  when needled, by attaching small clips to the needle which deliver a recurrent electrical pulse. They also come with pads however, very similar to the pads on a tens machine, which can be used to treat children. The pads deliver an electrical pulse to stimulate points gently, and the intensity of the sensation can be adjusted to comfort level. This works especially well with abdominal pain and digestive discomfort, and also treats poor appetite. Acupuncture is a safe and very powerful medicine for children, and many of the techniques and treatments can be taught to parents and used in the home. I am always happy to talk about helping children with acupuncture, so feel free to call or email for more information. 
Some useful links:
http://www.kidsloveacupuncture.com/

http://www.eyebright.me.uk/?page=21

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