Paediatric Acupuncture in Sydney

Gentle acupuncture treatments for kids in the Inner West

We provide gentle, needle free acupuncture for children at our clinic. Instead of using needles, our paediatric acupuncturist, Louie, uses rounded ended and flat tools, tapping or stroking them gently on the skin. This is a form of Japanese acupuncture that is popular for children called “Shonishin” or “children’s needle”. By treating the skins surface gently, Shonishin is able to calm and regulate the nervous system, positively impacting the child’s overall health.

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Asthma

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Allergies

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Digestive issues

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Growth and development

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Sleep

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Attention difficulties

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Chronic infections

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Asthma ~ Allergies ~ Digestive issues ~ Growth and development ~ Sleep ~ Attention difficulties ~ Chronic infections ~

An introduction to Japanese acupuncture for kids

One of the biggest misconceptions of acupuncture is that it must involve the insertion of needles into the skin. ‘Acupuncture’ is actually a mistranslation of the Chinese word Zhēn Jiǔ 针灸, which doesn’t mean to puncture the skin, but to use tools on acupuncture points, which can – but does not have to include – the insertion of those tools. The first nine needles historically described over two thousand years ago were of various shapes, thicknesses and lengths, and some weren’t intended to puncture the skin at all.

As Louie is trained in Shonishin, she uses tools that are evolutions of the first nine needles to stimulate the acupuncture points on the skin's surface, using exclusively non-inserted tools when working with children. This way the treatment is an enjoyable and relaxing experience for the child.

Due to it’s gentle nature Shonishin can be used from birth to 18 years of age and beyond for sensitive individuals. For young children the treatment can be delivered while the child is playing, moving around or being held by the caregiver.

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What can paediatric acupuncture treat?

When treating children we look at the child’s entire constitution, taking into account their health history and any symptoms they are currently presenting with. Because of this holistic approach, Shonishin can help to support your child on their health journey, no matter the concern.

Research shows that acupuncture can influence both the hormonal and nervous systems, assisting in regulating and balancing the body. By improving the child’s overall health and promoting their natural healing capacity, Shonishin is often used for symptom management and to assist in recovery from illness.

We can work closely with your other helathcare providers to provide complementary healthcare that may assist in the management of symptoms in order to support your child to live well.

Some reasons children might come for acupuncture treatment with are:

Chronic infections and immunity including repeated otitis media and respiratory infections
Asthma
Sleep problems including bedwetting
Behaviour and attention difficulties
Digestive concerns
Pain including musculoskeletal pain
Skin problems including eczema, psoriasis, nappy rash, skin allergies and other skin irritations
Colic
Growth and development issues
Feeding, latching, teething
Puberty and menstruation (pre-teen and teen)
Headaches and migraines

FAQ

To ensure a comprehensive and tailored consultation, please ensure you complete your New Client Intake Form prior to your Initial Consultation, and forward us copies of your latest pathology tests, medical scans, and other relevant medical documents.
As AHPRA registered healthcare modality, you can claim private health fund rebates for your TCM and Acupuncture services at Papaya.

However TCM is not covered under Medicare.
No, Shonishin acupuncture does not involve piercing of the skin and does not hurt. Most children will find the gentle stroking calming and relaxing. The goal of the treatment method is to avoid any discomfort to the child.
Yes, acupuncture is generally safe for children when performed by a licensed and experienced acupuncturist. Our practitioners are highly trained and the non-invasive Shonishin approach is less invasive than inserted acupuncture, increasing safety and comfort, and reducing risks associated with insertive acupuncture treatment.
The number of sessions varies depending on the child’s condition, age, and overall health. Some children see improvement after just 1–2 sessions, while chronic issues may require ongoing care. Your practitioner will recommend a personalized treatment plan suitable to your child.
A typical paediatric acupuncture session includes:
- A holistic health assessment
- Use of child-friendly, non-inserted tools
- A relaxing, short treatment (often 15–30 minutes)
- Lifestyle or dietary advice to support healing
- Parents are welcome to stay in the room during treatment.
Before your first session you can explain to your child that acupuncture is a gentle healing practice and won’t be painful. Let them know they can stop at any time and that you’ll be with them the whole time. Bringing a favorite toy, book, or comfort item can also help ease nerves and improve comfort.

What to expect when working with a TCM Practitioner in Sydney?

1

Initial Consultation

During this initial appointment, we will take the time to deeply listen to your concerns, explore your presenting symptoms, delve into your health goals, and carefully review your medical history, health background, diet, lifestyle and any medications or supplements.

All acupuncture treatments are followed by self care advice, and/or herbal prescription, and/or a referral to our allied health team for a collaborative approach if deemed beneficial for you.

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Preventative Care

TCM, unlike Western Medicine, works as preventative measure to many health conditions.

Whilst you visit your General Practitioner when there are acute symptoms or when you’re feeling unwell, you don’t necessarily need to be feeling unwell to visit a TCM practitioner.

Some patients use TCM to enhance fertility, some to help with menopausal symptoms, some to help with sleep and stress issues, some to rebalance deficiencies with the goal to feel energised again.

Appreciating the preventative nature enables your practitioner to deliver long lasting results.

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Maintainence

TCM and Acupuncture yields the best results when it is done consistently.

For most conditions, we recommend seeing our TCM practitioners once per month until you achieved your health goals.

At Papaya, our team works as one unit. Our services allow you to improve the Four Pillars of Health - Pelvic Health, Hormonal Health Mental Health, and Movement, and all works in conjunction with acupuncture and TCM to improve your overall wellbeing and health.