Pediatric Acupuncture
(needle-free)
Lisa practices a form of pediatric acupuncture called shonishin. It is a gentle, non-insertive treatment technique that began in Osaka, Japan in the 17th century. Literally translated, shonishin means sho=”little”, ni=”children”, shin=”needle”. Shonishin is appropriate for children of all ages, even newborns, and can also be used on sensitive adults as well.
Shonishin can treat a variety of conditions including: colic, GERD, indigestion, diarrhea, constipation, poor appetite, failure to thrive, sleep problems, allergies, asthma, poor immune function, attention issues, eczema, hives, nocturia, and speech issues.
Shonishin is administered quickly, usually with 15 – 20 minutes and is typically performed with the child clothed or just wearing a diaper. Small, rounded tools are stroked, rubbed, pressed and tapped in specific patterns on points and areas of the body. These techniques serve to harmonize and boost a child’s vital energy.
The technique is most effective when given several times per week until the symptoms are alleviated. Once the primary health concern is addressed, treatments may continue on a limited basis to prevent recurrence.
In addition to pediatric acupuncture treatment, Lisa also offers the option of care using essential oils and Chinese herbal medicine tinctures, designed specifically for children.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are the highly concentrated natural oils that exist in plants. They are typically obtained by distillation and have the characteristic fragrance, as well as the essence, of the plant they came from. This includes the smell, but also the plant’s healing properties and other plant characteristics.
Essential oils benefits go well beyond a pleasant smell. Essential oils can help your child relax or sleep, improve digestion, act as a decongestant, aid in the healing of cuts and scrapes, and can even be used as a bug repellant. The treatment of virtually any condition can be supported with essential oils, and Lisa can make recommendations for an essential oil or blend of oils that would be safe and effective for your child’s needs. Oils are either diffused into the air or applied topically, and are diluted to an appropriate level for children.
Chinese Herbal Tinctures
Chinese herbal medicine works very well to both prevent and treat illness in children– particularly for internal conditions such as respiratory or digestive disorders. When children have a history of chronic and recurrent infections and/or antibiotic use, using Chinese herbal medicine is often recommended.
Over the years, Lisa has found that herbal tinctures (alcohol-free) are the most effective and well-tolerated form of treatment for kids. An herbal formula, which consists of between four and fifteen herbs, can be given with an eye-dropper to babies, and mixed with a bit of water, milk, or juice for children and teens. Many tinctures include herbs that have anti-bacterial or anti-viral properties, while others work to promote the body’s innate ability to heal and recuperate. Side effects of properly prescribed herbs are uncommon, and if they do occur are quite mild.
