How Does Pediatric Acupuncture Work
Knowing spring allergies and colds are swirling around, we recently posted a blog on what a runny nose can mean for babies (if you missed it, check it out here). And while we touched on pediatric acupuncture within that post, we want to expand on exactly what our pediatric acupuncture treatments look like and what to expect.
At Magnolia Wellness, we offer acupressure and ear seeds when we treat children but we’d love to explain a popular form of pediatric acupuncture that you can explore further. Developed in Japan, Shonishin is translated to ‘little’ (sho) ‘children’ (ni) ‘needle’ (shin) and was designed specifically for infants and children. Throughout Japan, it’s used as a preventative health practice to boost the immune system, balance qi and ultimately, provide balance to the body. Shonishin uses the body’s meridians to remove blocked qi without any needles whatsoever. Instead, small instruments are used to tap, rub or gently stimulate energy. While we don’t offer Shonishin tools in our treatments, we encourage you to learn more about these practices and consider trying them at home with your children.
Knowing that there are multiple ways to treat your littles, let’s dive into what pediatric acupuncture can help with.
What Can Pediatric Acupuncture Treat?
Jaundice
Colic
Gas + bowel movements
ADD + ADHD
Cough
Pain
Nausea
Allergies
Stress and anxiety
UTI’s
What to Expect During Pediatric Acupuncture
When working with children, it’s extremely important to ensure that they’re participating in the process so that they feel safe and comfortable throughout the treatment. We interact with our pediatric patients so that they have a chance to learn about what we’re doing, get to know their bodies and to minimize any fear they may have in trying something new.
Step 1: We’ll begin with an acugraph report and have the kids see where they’re energy is flowing. This allows us to show them that this process is 100% painless and it opens up the conversation to nutrition, natural health and how they can take care of themselves.
Step 2: From there, we’ll explain all the different tools we can use that range from acupressure, cupping, gua sha, ear seeds, and press needles. If the kids are older and interested, we can also discuss our thin, hair-like needles, but we typically do not use or demonstrate acupuncture needles on small children.
Step 3: Once they’re comfortable and familiar with the tools, we’ll kick off the treatment and have them participate by placing an ear seed on us. Afterwards, we’ll select specific points on their body pending on their health issues, and place the ear seeds or press needles on the child.
For newborns - 2 year olds, we’ll keep the ear seeds or press needles on for 5-10 minutes
For ages 7-15, we’ll allow for 15 minutes
For teens, we’ll leave the needles for 15-20 minutes
Because children have yang energy, their energy moves through their bodies faster and their qi restores fairly quickly.
What To Bring During Pediatric Acupuncture
For children and teens, you’ll want to dress the kids so that we can access their bellies. For infants and babies, make sure to bring an extra diaper and again - dress the baby so that their tummy can be accessed. Changeable clothes and/or a onesie that zips would be ideal.
To book a pediatric acupuncture treatment, click this link and select Angela Sinnett and/or Kelsey Beckman as the practitioners. As mothers and healers, both of these practitioners will ensure that your children have a safe, pain-free experience.