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Acupuncture for Children's Health

  • Writer: Dr Sunila Prasad
    Dr Sunila Prasad
  • 7 days ago
  • 3 min read

Is Acupuncture for Children Really a Thing?


Absolutely! Acupuncture isn’t just for adults—it can be a gentle, effective treatment for infants, children, and teenagers. In fact, paediatric acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular as more parents seek holistic approaches to support their child’s health and well-being.




A 7 year old patient with two thin acupuncture needles inserted at his ankles
A 7-year-old patient who had 6 needles (width of 0.14mm) inserted in his first treatment

What Can Acupuncture Help with in Children?


Paediatric acupuncture can be used to support a variety of common health concerns, including:


Digestive Issues

  • Tummy aches and bloating

  • Acid reflux

  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

  • Food intolerances


Immune Support

  • Frequent colds and infections

  • Allergies and asthma

  • Eczema and other skin conditions


Constipation and Secondary Bedwetting

  • Regulating bowel movements

  • Supporting bladder control

  • Addressing nervous system imbalances


Mental Health & Emotional Well-being

  • Anxiety and stress management

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Emotional regulation

  • Support during transitions (school changes, family stress)


Neurodivergence Support (Autism & ADHD)

  • Supporting focus and emotional regulation

  • Supporting sensory processing challenges

  • Helping with self-soothing techniques


Menstrual Concerns

  • Irregular periods

  • Painful cramps

  • PMS symptoms



How is Acupuncture for Children Different from Adults?


Paediatric acupuncture is specially adapted to be safe, gentle, and comfortable for young patients. Here’s how it differs from adult acupuncture:


  • The Diagnostic Process: Practitioners take extra care to assess a child’s unique constitution, emotional state, and symptoms through observation and discussion with the parent/caregiver.

  • Fewer Needles: Children typically need fewer needles compared to adults. 

  • Gentle Needling Technique: The needles are ultra-fine, and in some cases, they are inserted and removed almost immediately (especially for younger children).

  • Shorter Retention Time: Unlike adult acupuncture, where needles are left in for 15-30 minutes, paediatric acupuncture may involve quick insertion and removal or up to 10-15 minutes of retention.

  • More Use of Ancillary Techniques: Other gentle therapies such as Shonishin (a needle-free Japanese technique using small tools to stimulate acupuncture points), Tui Na (Chinese medical massage), Moxibustion (gentle heat therapy), Cupping, and Gua Sha can be used in place of or alongside acupuncture needles.


Will My Child Tolerate Acupuncture?


Many parents worry that their child won’t sit still or will be afraid of the needles. However, with the right approach—and gentle patience and reassurance—most children tolerate acupuncture incredibly well. In fact, many children find the process relaxing and even enjoyable!


One of the key principles of paediatric acupuncture is giving the child control. Children should always be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and they can refuse treatment at any point—even if the caregiver wants to continue. This ensures a positive experience and builds trust with both the practitioner and the therapy itself.


The Bottom Line: Acupuncture is Safe and Effective for Children


With the right modifications, acupuncture can be a fantastic tool to support children’s health. Whether your child struggles with tummy troubles, anxiety, ADHD, sleep issues, or menstrual concerns, paediatric acupuncture offers a gentle and effective way to restore balance and improve overall well-being.


Looking for a Paediatric Acupuncturist in South London?


If you’re curious about how acupuncture can support your child, I’d love to help! At SP Acupuncture in South Croydon, I offer tailored treatments for children and teens and my previous work as an NHS Paediatric doctor means your child is in safe hands.


Book a free discovery call today to see if acupuncture is the right fit for your child.



📍 Serving families in Croydon, Purley, Bromley, Sutton, and the surrounding areas of South London & Surrey.

 
 
 

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