Before parents decide to bring their kids in for treatment, they may encounter some obstacles. Let’s talk about it so we can clear up some myths and misconceptions and get on to healing!
Objections and Gaining Trust
Your kids might say something like this:
“No way! I hate needles! They hurt!” – Most kids in the US are vaccinated from birth through adolescence, and so their main exposure to needles is the syringe used to give “shots”. Let me reassure you right now – I do NOT use syringes! Here’s a couple fun facts that give perspective:
- Did you know that anywhere from 20-40 acupuncture needles can fit inside a syringe?
- The average human hair at about .10mm in diameter is just a touch thinner than my needles, which are .14-.20mm in diameter.
While that may be reassuring to you, some kids may not grasp the concept. Luckily, I have a few tricks up my sleeve to gain their trust to try it. Usually once they try it they like it. My youngest patients like to tell me how many they want and where! As a mom I have a good rapport with kids to put them at ease on the treatment table.
Non-Needle Options
Still not convinced your cutie will fall for it? Well, they don’t have to get acupuncture w/needles. I also have non-needle techniques such as acupressure and massage that are effective for young kids due to their very sensitive nervous systems. There are also other tools used to stimulate acupuncture points without penetrating the skin.
In the next blog in this series, I will explain how herbal medicine is so great for getting kids healthier.
