Parents naturally want to provide the best care possible for their children, and acupuncture can help them stay healthy now and set them up for a healthy life, assisting them through life’s changes. Whether there is a health condition occurring or something just feels off, acupuncture works to restore homeostasis and harmony. There is a sensitivity in acupuncture that is often overlooked in other forms of medicine, making it a great choice of treatment or complement for a variety of issues teenagers may experience.

Acupuncture encompasses the use of sterile, thin, single-use, needles at specific points on the body. It is a very safe and pain-free procedure when performed by a licensed acupuncturist. Teenagers benefit from acupuncture because there are many changes that occur in this age group, from brain development and hormonal changes to social and academic changes. It is important to be healthy during this time in order for these changes to occur smoothly.

The body is under great stress during these growing cycles, and adding more stress can encourage a state of disease.  Staying up too late, not getting enough sleep, eating unhealthy foods, not eating at regular times, overtaxing the body, emotional instability and stressors from society, family, peers, and academics all add extra stress to the body. It is important for teens to start developing healthy lifestyle habits that foster health and wellness.

Symptoms include, digestive issues, skin issues, emotional issues, issues with sleeping, eating issues, menstrual issues (cramps, irregularity), allergies, headaches, migraines, body aches and fatigue. Acupuncture can address these problems and their root cause in order to prevent chronic illness and encourage lifelong wellness. While most conventional treatments just mask symptoms, acupuncture works on a deeper level with the body to restore homeostasis. 

One of the greatest strengths of acupuncture is helping people manage stress and anxiety. The acupuncture treatment itself is very relaxing; similar to getting a massage. Afterward, people generally feel relaxed and at ease. This feeling of calm permeates daily life and grows as treatments continue. Patients also report feeling more in control of their emotions and better able to handle stress. By learning to be in tune with the body, young people are better able to understand themselves and feel a sense of ease.

Kearney DeFillipo L.Ac., Dipl.Ac., is a licensed acupuncturist at Red Panda Acupuncture, located at 7848 Old York Rd., Ste. 200 C, in Elkins Park, PA. For appointments and more information, call 215-867-0114 or visit RedPandaAcupuncture.com.