Dr Donna Polk |
August 2017 www.drdonnapolk.com |
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The Effectiveness and Safety of Acupuncture for Children  We are naturally much more cautious about the health of our kids and about the treatments which they receive. Since acupuncture is used for the effective and safe treatment of various conditions in adults, it is natural to ask yourself whether it can help children in the same way as well. Use this short guide to find out. Treatable Conditions The practice of acupuncture therapists from around the globe reveals that this traditional Chinese medical treatment can be used for a wide variety of conditions which the modern children suffer from. This therapy can help for the relief of gastrointestinal conditions which are particularly common in children such as colic, indigestion, constipation and diarrhoea. It can ease the respiratory symptoms associated with asthma and allergies. It has been found effective for the treatment of skin conditions including eczema and acne. The treatment can help for anxiety, depression and ADHD as well. The therapy can help for treating cols, the flu and ear infections. It has two-fold action. It stimulates the secretion of both pain-relieving chemicals and the production of white blood cells which fight the pathogens. How It Works In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture is extensively used for the treatment of children. However, it is slightly different from the therapy used in adults. It is believed that children have very gentle and very sensitive Chi. That is why, the therapist keeps the needles in the skin for a much shorter period of time. In very small or very sensitive children, acupressure, which involves the stimulation of the meridian points with massage, is used. Modern Research So far, the studies on acupuncture and the practice of this therapy in the Western world have revealed that the treatment is safe and effective for children from birth. One of the most recent studies including 37 participating children revealed incidence of the adverse effects of 11 per cent. Most adverse effects were extremely mild. These included crying, numbness in a point where a needle is inserted, bruising and nausea. The Approach It is up to parents to decide on whether to use this therapy for treating their children. Age is an important factor and so is the health condition of the child. It is best if a paediatrician evaluates the child and confirms the safety of the therapy. The chosen therapist must comply with all standards for safety. It is best if the person has experience in working with kids as well. Experts suggest that the treatment should be explained to the youngsters so that they should feel comfortable about it. Overall, acupuncture can help children when it is applied in the right way. |
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