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.
One significant benefit of WS-TCM for children is its focus on prevention and early intervention. By identifying and addressing imbalances in the body's Qi (vital energy) and promoting healthy lifestyle habits from an early age, WS-TCM helps support children's overall health and well-being, reducing the risk of illness and disease later in life. Through modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and lifestyle recommendations, WS-TCM empowers parents and caregivers to take proactive steps to optimize their children's health.
Pediatric treatment with WS-TCM:
Acupuncture is one of the key modalities used in WS-TCM for children, offering gentle and non-invasive approaches to addressing a variety of pediatric conditions. Acupuncture for children typically involves the use of specialized techniques such as pediatric acupuncture, which utilizes smaller needles and gentle stimulation to ensure comfort and safety. Acupuncture can be effective for managing a wide range of pediatric issues, including digestive problems, respiratory conditions, allergies, sleep disturbances, behavioral issues, and pain management.
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, that “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.
Herbal medicine is another valuable component of WS-TCM treatment for children, offering natural and safe remedies tailored to each child's unique pattern of disharmony. Herbal formulas for children are specially formulated to be palatable and easy to administer, often in the form of teas, powders, or syrups. These herbal remedies can help support immune function, alleviate symptoms, and promote overall health and well-being. Additionally, WS-TCM practitioners may provide dietary recommendations and lifestyle guidance to support children's health and development.
Furthermore, WS-TCM offers holistic approaches to addressing pediatric mental health and emotional well-being. Mind-body practices such as qigong, tai chi, and meditation can help children cultivate inner peace, emotional resilience, and stress management skills. By promoting balance and harmony within the body-mind-spirit connection, WS-TCM empowers children to navigate life's challenges with greater ease and equanimity.
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
What’s the role of the parent in all of this?
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.
Through modalities such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and lifestyle recommendations, WS-TCM empowers parents and caregivers to support their children's overall health and well-being from an early age. By fostering balance and harmony within the body's systems and promoting healthy lifestyle habits, WS-TCM helps children thrive and reach their full potential.
Our staff is highly trained in a variety of specialties. Garden Acupuncture has 40+ years of experience treating patients with proven results and plenty of beautiful stories. See why our patients trust us on their healing journey and continue to leave us wonderful reviews. Naturally healing the body is a beautiful process, discover it for yourself. Step into the office and see why we make a difference in the lives of our clients.
— Kathy M.
