Children

Traditional Chinese medicine has long been recognised as an important part of Paediatrics.

My experience in treating children has come from treating two of my own over the years. Using the Chinese medicine theory and its rich knowledge of the health benefits of foods, herbs and acupuncture, I have managed my children’s health without the need for traditional medicines.

I have also treated the children of families who originally came to me with fertility issues. Teaching new parents simple ways in which they can manage minor childhood illnesses enables them to grow in confidence when dealing with their family’s health.

Acupuncture can be used on very small children, and is usually an un-traumatic experience for the child. Small needles are inserted as quickly and painlessly as possible - they need not be retained and minimal needle manipulation is required. Older children can have needles left in for a short while - from the age of about 8 or 9 generally, but this is very much depends on the individual child.

Most children don't need any more than 2 points (4 needles) in any one treatment, and bear in mind that changes happen very rapidly, especially in very small children.

The more 'tools' you have at hand when treating children then the easier it will be for all concerned. Tui-na or any kind of massage is a very useful addition to have in a children's clinic, as this can be carried out in conjunction with acupuncture, on its own, or shown to parents for them to do at home. Most children find this relaxing and un-threatening, as they do acupressure. Also useful is skin rolling drums, paintbrushes, electro-stimulators, moxa sticks etc.

If you are going to treat children remember to have some toys at hand to keep them entertained, and have some rewards to give at the end of the treatment; this can be stickers, dried fruit, sugar free sweets etc.

Children easily become ill but also easily become well again. Given the correct conditions to recover the sick child will regain strength very well. However, childhood illness can also quickly become more serious. It is important that the parent is equipped with the knowledge to know when to act.

Illness is an important part of childhood, yet we have become intolerant of any kind of illness, almost as if it were an inconvenience to our busy lives. Time spent nursing a poorly child is a very precious time and it is vital that a child is left to recover fully without being rushed back to school. This will only weaken the child and make them more susceptible to future infection. For example, if a child has a temperature for 24 hrs, it is sensible, once the temperature has gone, to keep the child at home for a further 24 hrs to recover.