One of our licensed acupuncturists will meet with you and your child to learn about your child’s symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. The acupuncturist may:

• Ask about your child’s symptoms
• Check pulses
• Look at the tongue
• Select acupuncture points based on symptoms

Sterile, single-use needles are gently inserted and remain in place for about 30 minutes to support the body’s natural healing process. For hospitalized patients, sessions take place in your child’s hospital room and typically last 20 minutes. Outpatient Acupuncture Clinic visits are about 60 minutes. 

Most children report little to no pain, and side effects are usually minor, such as brief pressure, rare scant bleeding, or drowsiness. 

If your child is afraid of needles or cannot lie still, acupressure may be offered. Acupressure is a technique where gentle pressure is applied to specific points (acupoints) on the body using a finger or tools such as acupressure bands, seeds or other tools. 

To keep your child safe, we will not do acupuncture if your child cannot lie still, or if your child does not agree to the treatment.