If you’re the parent of a child on the autism spectrum you have probably researched many different ways of finding support for your child.
However, you may not know that Chinese medicine (including herbs, acupressure, acupuncture, and other modalities) can be effective in supporting your child’s growth and development and emotional well-being.
Chinese medicine can help autistic children in the following ways:
- Calming the nervous system;
- Supporting proper digestive function;
- Stimulating growth and development;
- Assisting with skin conditions such as eczema; and
- Supporting immune and breathing conditions such as frequent infections and asthma.
Research shows that many children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have high levels of systemic inflammation which can negatively impact immunity, digestion, and brain functioning. Chinese medicine can support autistic children by addressing inflammation; recent studies show that acupuncture reduces inflammation. Additionally, many Chinese herbal remedies are also known to be anti-inflammatory. Together, these methods can reduce the inflammatory states that are causing intestinal, immune, and developmental problems.
Regulating the nervous system is another very important aspect of pediatric acupuncture and acupressure. Many autistic children will present with over-stimulated nervous systems which manifest as stress, anxiety, worry, and fear. This can happen when children are placed in social situations where they are not comfortable, when they know that their condition creates stress within the family, or from the distress of receiving discipline. Children find pediatric acupressure very relaxing and welcoming and it can create profound changes in the body.
After several years of trying various therapies, some autistic children internalize a high level of frustration, shame, or disappointment. In my clinical experience, providing acupressure and acupuncture treatments allows these children to release some of the pent-up negative emotions.
If you or a loved one is looking for more resources to support an autistic child, please contact me by phone or email to discuss how Chinese medicine can help.
