Acupuncture for Intellectual Disabilities

By Dr. Caroline Xiong (Dip Acu, MD, Ph.D.)

The effect of Chinese Remedial Massage and Acupuncture on children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Intellectual Disabilities has been a growing area of interest in holistic healthcare.

How Acupuncture Supports Neurodevelopment

Traditional Chinese Medicine views these conditions as an imbalance of Qi (energy) and blood, often related to the heart, liver, and kidneys. Treatment focuses on calming the mind, clearing "phlegm," and nourishing the brain.

• Calming the Nervous System: Specific acupuncture points can help regulate the nervous system, reducing hyperactivity, anxiety, and aggressive behaviours.
• Improving Focus and Sleep: Regular treatments have been shown to help improve concentration spans and regulate sleep patterns, which are often disrupted in children with ASD and ADHD.
• Digestive Support: Many children with neurodevelopmental disorders have concurrent digestive issues. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can help improve gut health, which is closely linked to brain function.

Treatment is always gentle, tailored to the individual child, and can be combined with paediatric Tui Na (Chinese Remedial Massage) for those who are needle-phobic.