By Katie Kuhn
Kids may be afraid of needles. But many kids love getting acupuncture! With support and encouragement from parents, kids are often curious about acupuncture and begging to come back after their first treatment.
Ms. K, Tweenager, a gymnast with an injured neck
Acupuncture can help kids heal from injuries, improve sleep and digestion, and may help poor concentration, as well as a variety of other ailments. It may be used in place of giving kids pain medication, which often has much harsher side effects on little ones. My own 11 month old son has already had acupuncture for teething pain, an upset stomach and runny noses.
Acupuncture uses thin needles inserted into specific points around the body. Kids typically need fewer needles and keep them in shorter time periods, or may not keep them in at all. They tend to respond very quickly to treatments and recover more quickly than adults. We may also use Shonishin, a type of Japanese pediatric acupressure and bodywork technique.
When we treat kids at Huron Point Acupuncture, we begin by explaining the treatment to them. We let them see how the needles are very small. We may insert a needle into ourselves, a doll or a parent to show that it does not hurt. Most kids are curious and fascinated. We also carry a line of pediatric Chinese herbal formulas as well as topical skin care products that are safe for sensitive skin.
If you are interested in learning more about acupuncture, contact Katie Kuhn at Huron Point Acupuncture at 810-824-9215 or schedule an appointment today at huronpointacupuncture.com or find a Board Certified acupuncturist in your area at NCCAOM.org/find-a-provider-directory.
