Pediatric Shonishin is a form of Japanese acupuncture for children that uses tools instead of needles, to stimulate acupoints, channels and body areas to treat common childhood conditions and improve the overall health of the child. Shonishin is an appropriate therapy for children from infancy to 12 years of age.

Sho = means little
Ni = means children
Shin = means needle

ORIGINS OF SHONISHIN

Shonishin (Little Child’s Needle) is based in classical Chinese Acupuncture Medicine that came to Japan but was developed further in Osaka, Japan in the 17th century as a gentle alternative to acupuncture technique with needles.  In fact, many families in Osaka solely relied on the village acupuncturist to treat children for prevention and childhood ailments.  The tradition often entailed children in the village being treated collectively one time per month on or just before the full moon.  This tradition continues to this day and with great results to keep children healthy, with lower rates of infection or illness.

WHAT CAN SHONISHIN TREAT?

Shonishin can be used to treat a range of common childhood condition including:

• common colds
• recurrent infections
• colic
• digestion
• constipation
• diarrhea
• allergies
• asthma
• eczema
• poor sleep
• night terrors
• anxiety
• behavioral issues
• bed-wetting

WILL MY CHILD BE NEEDLED?

No. This form of pediatric acupuncture treatment is sometimes called “acupuncture without the puncture”, since the “needles” are non-invasive tools that do not pierce the skin.  It is generally not painful and most children find it fun and relaxing.  The traditional tools are metal (usually gold, silver, stainless steel, or copper).  Depending on the age of the child, Dr. Rodriguez also uses smooth seashells and stones from nature.  Children soon learn to use the tools on themselves and tend to know its a positive treatment!