Acupuncture is often regarded as a holistic treatment for adults that helps with issues such as insomnia, low energy, and headaches. However, the treatment can also benefit children. It involves inserting tiny needles at specific points on the body to stimulate the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for all bodily functions. The following guide outlines a few reasons to schedule a session for your child. 

What Advantages Does Acupuncture Provide Children?

1. Relieves Chronic Pain

Consider acupuncture if your child deals with recurring back pain from a sports injury, chronic headaches or stomach aches, or other ongoing discomforts. In addition to stimulating the autonomic nervous system, these needles are also believed to trigger chemical releases that lower inflammation, improve blood circulation and pressure, release tension, and provide a calming effect. These benefits work together to help a person live without chronic pain. 

2. Reduces Fear of Needles

Many people are uncomfortable around needles, including adults. By introducing your child to tiny, painless needles early on in their life, they associate the tools with better health. 

Future vaccines and blood tests will become easier. Even though such needles cause mild discomfort, your child will not be as frightened by them. This helps prevent overreactions about pain being worse than it is.

3. Improves Digestive Issues

Since acupuncture works as well on children as it does on adults, it helps alleviate disorders experienced by young and old people alike. If your child routinely experiences IBS, gas, constipation, or other digestive problems, the traditional Chinese medicine treatment could prove beneficial. It reduces inflammation caused by inflammatory bowel conditions and decreases stomach acid levels to relieve indigestion and bloating. 

It can also help with diarrhea. According to Chinese medicine, this situation is caused by digestive system “dampness." “Warming” the bowels by unblocking Qi might reduce—if not eradicate—diarrhea-related problems.

If you think this form of traditional Chinese medicine might be right for your child, make an appointment at Avicenna Acupuncture & Lymphedema Clinic. This wellness center is based in Denver, CO, and has been serving the metro area since 2009. They provide compassionate, customized services that treat specific needs, and they offer everything from acupuncture for sports injuries to electroacupuncture and cupping therapy. Call (303) 803-0675 to schedule an appointment, or visit the website for treatment information. All services are not replacements for professional help.