top of page

Oakland Pediatric Acupuncture: Gentle, Effective Care for Kids

  • Writer: Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, CHt
    Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, CHt
  • Jan 16, 2019
  • 3 min read

Updated: 2 days ago


Pediatric acupuncture is a safe, gentle, and effective approach to support children’s health and well-being. While similar in many ways to adult acupuncture, pediatric treatments are uniquely adapted to meet the needs of growing bodies and sensitive nervous systems. At our Oakland clinic, Dr. Kim offers specialized pediatric kids acupuncture sessions designed to calm, balance, and support children—without the need for needles in many cases.


What Makes Pediatric Acupuncture Different?

Children’s bodies are constantly growing and changing. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this means their meridian systems—the energetic pathways we work with in acupuncture—are still developing. Because of this, pediatric acupuncture uses different tools and techniques than adult treatments.


Rather than inserting traditional needles, we often use:

  • Shonishin (Japanese pediatric acupuncture tools)

  • Contact needles (non-insertive tools that stimulate points without breaking the skin)

  • Acupressure and massage

  • Energy work and gentle balancing techniques

  • Hypnosis and coaching


These treatments are painless and typically well-tolerated by kids, even infants.


While the idea of needles can sometimes sound scary, most kids tolerate needling treatments quite well, even patients as young as 5 or 6 years old! We use finer gauge needles for our pediatric patients, and the needling usually isn't retained for long periods of time, making it a quick and easy session.


Close-up of a child's eye, green with reflections, surrounded by soft light and blurred background, creating a calm, introspective mood.

Common Pediatric Conditions Treated with Oakland Kids Acupuncture

Pediatric acupuncture can support a wide variety of physical, emotional, and behavioral conditions in children. Common concerns we address include:

Each treatment is tailored to your child’s age, temperament, and specific health concerns.


What If My Child is Scared?

It’s common for children to feel nervous about trying something new. Our pediatric kid's acupuncture treatments in Oakland aren't like going to the doctor or dentist—there are no shots, and treatments don’t have to use needles at all. We encourage parents to frame it as a fun, and maybe weird, new experience.


Dr. Kim has a calming presence and a natural ability to connect with children. Many young patients who arrive nervous or upset are often smiling, relaxed, and asking for more by the end of the session. We always honor your child’s comfort level and work at a pace that feels safe and supportive.


Shonishin acupuncture tools on a reflective dark surface, featuring intricate designs and small needle-like points. Warm lighting enhances the copper hue.
Shonishin and Contact Needling Tools

Hypnosis for Kids: A Gentle Mind-Body Support Tool

In addition to acupuncture, pediatric hypnosis can be a wonderful complement to care. Hypnosis is a safe, evidence-based method that helps kids tap into their imagination and inner resources to create change.


Children are naturally imaginative and respond well to hypnotherapy, which can help with:

  • Managing anxiety or fears

  • Bedwetting and sleep issues

  • Pain management

  • Confidence building

  • Preparation for medical procedures


Dr. Kim is a certified hypnotherapist and offers child-friendly, age-appropriate hypnosis sessions that feel like storytelling or guided imagination.


Support for the Whole Family

When a child receives acupuncture, the healing often extends to the entire family. Chronic illness, behavioral issues, or emotional stress can impact parents deeply. Pediatric acupuncture sessions offer not just support for your child, but a moment of peace, validation, and healing for you as well.


Dr. Kim often says healing begins the moment you make the appointment—and that’s especially true for families. In some cases, she may recommend treatments for parents to help balance the energetic dynamic in the household and support the overall healing process.


Book an Oakland Kids Acupuncture Session

Pediatric acupuncture in Oakland is available for children under age 13. For teens 13 and older, we recommend a standard First-Time Acupuncture visit. Treatments are always adjusted to your child’s age, condition, and comfort level—and yes, we treat babies too!


Ready to see if pediatric acupuncture can help your child thrive? Click the button below to book your appointment today.



Comentarios


We Would Love to Have You Visit Soon!

Traditional Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Hypnotherapy and Transformational Life Coaching in Oakland California serving the San Francisco East Bay Area. Over 15 years experience! Specialties in Sports medicine, orthopedics, mental health, cosmetic acupuncture, long covid, pediatrics and more! 

Offering acupuncture, hypnotherapy and more to Alameda County and the East Bay- Oakland, Piedmont, Alameda, Berkeley, Emeryville, San Leandro, Hayward, Lafayette, Orinda.

Privacy Policy.  Terms & Conditions. 

©2024 Kim Peirano - Lion's Heart Acupuncture & Wellness, Inc

Our office is still working hard to keep our communities safe from communicable disease. Masking is requested at all times, disinfection protocols are in place and we are fully vaccinated & mask in the clinic.

541 Athol Ave, Oakland, CA 94606  |  510-761-7660  |  admin@lionsheartwellness.com
bottom of page