Gentle, Effective Pediatric Acupuncture in Tuckahoe, NY & Bryant Park, NYC
Children respond remarkably well to traditional Chinese medicine — often faster and more dramatically than adults. At Elemental Acupuncture, Dr. Bethany Leddy, DACM, MSOM has 22 years of specialized experience in pediatric acupuncture and acupressure, offering safe, gentle, and highly effective care for children of all ages. From infants to teenagers, Dr. Leddy tailors every pediatric treatment to the child’s age, sensitivity, and specific health needs — prioritizing comfort and results in equal measure.
Request an AppointmentShonishin — Japanese Pediatric Acupressure
Dr. Leddy trained directly with Soma Glick, L.Ac., a nationally recognized authority on pediatric acupuncture, and has been practicing shonishin for over 22 years. Shonishin is a Japanese pediatric technique that uses specialized acupressure tools — non-insertive instruments that stroke, tap, and press along the meridians and acupuncture points of a child’s body without needles. This gentle stimulation activates the same energetic responses as traditional acupuncture but without any discomfort, making it ideal for infants, toddlers, and children who may be sensitive or apprehensive about needles.
Children’s energy (qi) is vibrant and responsive. Because their systems are more dynamic and adaptable than adults’, they typically respond to treatment quickly and with lasting results. A child who might require 10–15 acupuncture sessions as an adult may achieve the same outcome in 3–5 shonishin treatments. This makes pediatric TCM not just effective, but highly efficient for busy families.
When Needles Are Used — Safe & Painless for Children
In some cases, particularly for older children or specific conditions, a small number of acupuncture needles may be used. Dr. Leddy uses the ultra-fine Japanese-style needles she employs with all her patients — inserted quickly, retained for only a few minutes, and removed before the child becomes restless. Children consistently find the experience relaxing and painless. Many even look forward to their sessions.
Chinese Herbal Medicine for Children
Dr. Leddy also prescribes pediatric Chinese herbal formulas — available as tinctures, granules, or glycerites specially formulated for children’s taste and safety. These herbal medicines offer a natural, side-effect-free alternative to conventional pediatric medications for a wide range of conditions, from allergies and recurring colds to constipation, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, and emotional challenges. Children often respond quickly to herbal tinctures, with long-lasting improvements after a relatively short course of treatment.
To schedule a pediatric consultation, call (646) 872-1181 or request an appointment at our Tuckahoe or Bryant Park office.
Frequently Asked Questions — Pediatric Acupuncture
Is acupuncture safe for children?
Yes. When performed by a trained pediatric specialist like Dr. Leddy, acupuncture and shonishin are extremely safe for children. Dr. Leddy uses age-appropriate techniques — primarily needle-free shonishin tools — and when needles are needed, they are ultra-fine, inserted briefly, and removed quickly to ensure the child’s comfort.
What is shonishin and how does it differ from regular acupuncture?
Shonishin is a Japanese pediatric technique that uses specialized non-insertive tools to gently stroke, tap, and press along meridians and acupuncture points without needles. It activates the same therapeutic effects as acupuncture but is completely pain-free, making it ideal for infants, toddlers, and needle-sensitive children.
What conditions can pediatric acupuncture treat?
Pediatric acupuncture and shonishin can address a wide range of childhood health concerns including allergies, digestive problems, recurring colds, asthma, sleep disturbances, anxiety, behavioral challenges, eczema, and more.
At what age can children receive acupuncture?
Children of all ages can benefit from pediatric TCM. Shonishin is safe from infancy. Traditional acupuncture with needles is typically introduced for older children and adolescents, with technique adjusted for each child’s age, size, and temperament.
How many treatments does a child typically need?
Children often respond faster than adults. Many childhood conditions respond within 3–5 treatments with shonishin, compared to 10–15 sessions for adults. Dr. Leddy will give you a realistic treatment timeline after the initial consultation.
Are Chinese herbal medicines safe for children?
Yes. Dr. Leddy prescribes pediatric-specific herbal formulations — tinctures and glycerites designed for children’s taste and dosage needs — that are safe, gentle, and effective. These are natural alternatives to conventional medications with minimal risk of side effects.
How do I schedule a pediatric acupuncture appointment?
Call (646) 872-1181 or request an appointment online. Dr. Leddy sees pediatric patients at both our Tuckahoe and Bryant Park offices. Visit our New Patients page for intake forms.