Health
After analyzing research conducted over the past 60 years, the American Academy of Pediatrics reported that acupuncture is safe for children, but only if the procedures are conducted by good specialists.
A recent issue of the journal Pediatrics included an analysis of 37 studies involving children between the ages of birth and 17. The researchers found that side effects were seen in 279 cases, of which 253 were minor, 1 was moderate and 25 were quite serious.
Serious side effects included bleeding, infections, heart and lung problems. One child was infected with HIV. Scientists noted that these effects were observed in the case of an unprofessional approach, and not due to improper use of the technique.
“Such procedures should be performed by well-trained specialists, then side effects will not occur in children or adults,” says acupuncturist Jamie Starkey from the Clinic Cleveland.
The report also said that studies were not aimed at the effectiveness of the acupuncture procedure, scientists paid attention only to its safety. They confirmed that acupuncture itself is allowed for children as long as parents go to a professional.
Sometimes it is difficult to convince children to undergo procedures, as they are mostly all afraid of needles. If parents can persuade their child to go for acupuncture sessions, it won't hurt.
Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years. According to Chinese experts, sticking needles into certain parts of the body will help balance the flow of energy in the body, which is called “qi”. Acupuncture helps treat headaches, migraines, back and joint pain, chemotherapy-induced cramps, and nausea.