Medical Acupuncture For Children

Acupuncture is known for its safe application with less adverse side effects compared to conventional pain treatments. For this very reason we expect to see a continued growth in its use with children.

You may hear acupuncture being referred to as an 'alternative' treatment based on ancient chinese methods of regulating the body's energy pathways. A more modern and western approach refers to medical acupuncture as a complementary treatment, now used by a great many medical professionals in a wide range of clinical settings. Chartered Physiotherapists are increasingly undergoing post graduate training in medical acupuncture as an adjunct to their treatment approaches and achieving very good results.

In a recent article at everydayhealth.com discussing the use of acupuncture with children the author makes a comment "Exactly how acupuncture works is unknown." But then does offer the distinction between the Chinese and western approach, the latter referring to the release of certain chemicals in the brain that calm the pain receptors.

A more detailed explanation see a previous article by Simon - How Acupuncture Works

In the article the chairman of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Lawrence Rosen, says acupuncture is mainly used in children to control nausea resulting from surgery or cancer treatments. It is also widely used for chronic pain sufferers as well as being useful to help recovery from general aches and pains, muscle strains and other types of sports injuries.

Understandably many children may not like the idea of needles being inserted into their skin. It is important that the parent first have confidence in the training and skill of the Chartered Physiotherapist using acupuncture, as well as their ability to relate to the child in order for the treatment process to be effective. It is also a requirement that parents give consent for children under the age of 16 to receive this type of treatment. We find that having the parent present within the treatment room can also be reassuring.

If you feel your child may benefit from Physiotherapy which may include medical acupuncture techniques, please contact the clinic and we would be happy to discuss.

by Simon Coghlan