PEDIATRIC ACUPUNCTURE
Innovative Technique
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Tailored Treatment Plan
For Each Child
Traditional Chinese Medicine · Paediatrics
Paediatric Chinese Medicine
Natural, safe and gentle care for the health of the little ones
Approach
A Gentle and Natural Approach
Seeing a child in discomfort — whether from recurrent respiratory infections, skin conditions, sleep difficulties or emotional challenges — is one of the most difficult experiences for any parent. The desire to help is immediate, but conventional solutions do not always offer the desired relief without side effects or prolonged dependence on medication.
Paediatric Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a different perspective — an approach that seeks to understand the root cause of the imbalance, rather than merely suppressing symptoms. By restoring the energetic balance of the child’s body, we create conditions for the child’s own organism to recover its natural capacity for self-regulation and healing.
This millennia-old medicine now has a complete range of entirely painless and safe techniques — laser acupuncture, electrostimulation, acupressure, Tui Na massage, auriculotherapy, moxibustion, herbal medicine and Chinese dietetics — validated by international scientific studies and perfectly adapted to each child’s needs.
Safety
Is It Safe for Babies and Children?
This is, understandably, the first question from any parent. The short answer is: yes, paediatric Chinese Medicine is safe when practised by properly certified professionals.
Scientific Validation
Scientific studies conducted in the United States and published in the journal Pediatrics confirm the safety and efficacy of Chinese Medicine techniques in children when practised appropriately.
A 2011 systematic review analysed over 270 clinical studies and concluded that serious adverse effects are extremely rare — significantly rarer than those associated with many conventional pharmacological interventions.
At Five Clinic
All paediatric treatments are carried out by practitioners with ACSS-certified licences and specialist training in paediatrics.
Source: Adams et al. (2011) — “The safety of pediatric acupuncture: a systematic review”, Pediatrics; Jindal et al. (2008) — Journal of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology.
Therapeutic Range
Therapeutic Techniques Adapted for Children
Paediatric Chinese Medicine has an extensive range of gentle techniques that can be combined according to each child’s needs. At the initial consultation, we assess which approach is most suitable for the child’s temperament, age and specific condition.
01
Laser Acupuncture
Low-intensity laser light beams stimulate acupuncture points without any physical contact. The child feels only a gentle, pleasant warmth. Particularly suitable for babies and children up to 4 years old — extremely quick (10-20 seconds per point) and completely painless.
02
Painless Electrostimulation (PREMIO 20DT)
Small electrodes applied to the skin emit gentle micro-electrical pulses. The sensation is a comfortable tingling. Ideal for children from 4-5 years old, particularly effective for muscle pain and tension.
03
Acupressure
Gentle rhythmic finger pressure applied to specific points. Suitable for all ages. Parents can learn simple points to use at home for insomnia, anxiety or digestive discomfort.
04
Paediatric Tui Na Massage
Chinese therapeutic massage technique specially adapted for children, with gentle manoeuvres on specific points and meridians. Particularly effective for babies with colic, insomnia or agitation. Can be taught to parents.
05
Auriculotherapy
Application of small seeds or magnetic beads at specific ear points. Completely painless and discreet. The child can wear them for several days. Particularly useful for anxiety, school focus and appetite regulation.
06
Electric Moxibustion (smoke-free)
Concentrated therapeutic heat applied to acupuncture points via an electric device. The sensation is a penetrating, comfortable warmth. Ideal for children with low energy, a weak immune system or digestive issues.
07
Heat Therapy (TDP Lamp / Premio 10)
Deep infrared heat applied to specific areas of the body, promoting circulation and muscle relaxation. Ideal for children with muscle pain, digestive issues (colic) or respiratory conditions.
08
Paediatric Chinese Herbal Medicine
Chinese herbal formulas specifically adapted for children, in safe dosages and appropriate forms (syrups, soluble granules, chewable tablets). Always personalised to the child’s energetic diagnosis.
09
Chinese Dietary Therapy
Personalised dietary guidance based on the energetic temperature of foods and the child’s constitution. We provide parents with practical and realistic recommendations on foods that strengthen Qi, regulate digestion, reduce mucus production or calm the mind — always respecting the family’s preferences and routines.
Specialities
Main Reasons for Consultation
Paediatric Chinese Medicine can offer support across a wide range of clinical conditions common in childhood and adolescence. Below are the areas where we observe the most consistent results:
Respiratory System
Allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, bronchial asthma, recurrent respiratory infections (ear infections, tonsillitis, recurrent bronchiolitis) and persistent cough. Chinese Medicine seeks to strengthen defensive energy (Wei Qi) — the equivalent of the immune system.
Urinary System
Nocturnal enuresis (involuntary urination during sleep), a condition affecting approximately 15% of children at age 5. Acupuncture strengthens Kidney and Bladder energy, helping the child regain nocturnal bladder control.
Skin Conditions
Atopic eczema, atopic dermatitis, acne (especially in adolescents), urticaria and other skin manifestations. Chinese Medicine recognises that the skin is frequently a mirror of internal imbalances — digestive, emotional or immune.
Mental and Emotional Health
ADHD, childhood anxiety, depressive symptoms, sleep difficulties, irritability and emotional dysregulation. Chinese Medicine considers the deep interconnection between body, mind and emotions — particularly relevant in an era of increasing stress.
Weight Management
Support in the treatment of childhood overweight and obesity, considering the metabolic, digestive, emotional and behavioural aspects. Chinese Medicine seeks to regulate metabolism and naturally balance appetite.
Academic and Cognitive Performance
Rebalancing mind and body can enhance reasoning ability, memory and creativity, while reducing stress and anxiety levels. Students during exam periods or with concentration difficulties benefit from this natural support.
Process
How Does a Paediatric Consultation Work?
We understand that bringing a child to a Chinese Medicine consultation may raise questions and some apprehension. That is why we seek to create a welcoming, reassuring environment adapted to the child’s pace.
First Consultation · 45–60 min
Initial conversation with parents
Detailed clinical history — pregnancy, birth, development, feeding, sleep pattern, temperament and current concerns.
TCM diagnostic assessment
Tongue observation (we make this a fun moment!), pulse palpation, skin, eyes, posture and general energy observation.
Choosing the right technique
We explain the different options and choose the most appropriate approach together with parents.
First treatment
Generally shorter (10-15 min) to allow adaptation. The child may sit on a parent’s lap.
Personalised guidance
Recommendations on Chinese dietetics, sleep habits and simple practices parents can do at home.
Follow-up Consultations · 30–45 min
At subsequent consultations, the child is generally more comfortable and familiar with the environment. Treatment time may increase slightly (15-20 minutes), according to tolerance and therapeutic needs.
Session frequency is always personalised, but typically ranges from once a week (in acute phases) to once every 2-3 weeks (for maintenance or preventive treatment).
Method
The Five Clinic Approach
At Five Clinic, we treat every child as the unique individual they are. There are no standard protocols — each therapeutic plan is built taking into account the child’s energetic constitution, temperament, developmental stage, and the family and emotional context surrounding them.
We always work in close collaboration with parents, because we recognise that they are the primary caregivers and daily observers of the child. Their perceptions and concerns are fundamental to the diagnosis and to the assessment of therapeutic progress.
Where appropriate, we also maintain communication with the conventional health professionals who follow the child (paediatrician, psychologist, speech therapist, etc.), from a perspective of complementarity — never replacement.
All our specialists hold professional licences certified by ACSS and specialist training in paediatrics. Our clinic is officially registered with the Health Regulatory Authority (ERS) under number 39558/E166752.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Questions
From what age can a child receive Chinese Medicine treatments?
Chinese Medicine can be applied from birth. In very young babies, we use even gentler techniques (Tui Na massage or very low-intensity laser acupuncture). From 6 months, all techniques become fully viable, always adapted to the child’s age and temperament.
How long does it take to see results?
It depends on the condition. In acute situations, effects may be noticed within 24-48 hours. For chronic or constitutional conditions (asthma, eczema, ADHD), we recommend a minimum of 6-8 sessions (approximately 2 months) to observe consistent improvements. Children’s bodies generally respond more quickly than adults.
Does the child need to stop conventional medication?
No. Chinese Medicine can be practised alongside conventional treatments. We never advise stopping prescribed medication without guidance from the attending physician. In many cases, Chinese Medicine treatments may help reduce the need for medication over time — but that decision must always be made together with the paediatrician.
What if the child won’t stay still during treatment?
That is completely normal! The techniques we use are quick and adaptable — laser acupuncture takes only 10-20 seconds per point, Tui Na massage can be done while the child plays, and auriculotherapy is applied instantly. We often allow children to watch cartoons or play during the session. What matters most is that the child feels comfortable and safe.
Next Step
Book the First Consultation
The first paediatric consultation lasts approximately 45 to 60 minutes and includes a full Chinese Medicine assessment, personalised diagnosis and a first treatment adapted to the child.
Our Brands
About Us
Specialist clinic in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture, located in the heart of Lisbon. Since 2012, we have offered personalised treatments with certified professionals.
ERS Registration
No. 39558/E166752
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Contacts
📍 Address
Avenida Duque de Loulé, 47
3rd Floor, Right
1050-086 Lisbon · Portugal
✉️ Email
[email protected]🌐 Website
www.fiveclinic.pt/enOpening Hours
Monday to Friday:
10:00 — 13:00
14:00 — 19:00
Saturday:
09:00 — 13:00
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📋 Professional Credentials
Company
FIVE CLINIC by FIVEDIRECTIONS
HEALTH & WELLNESS LDA
VAT No.: 513248889
Clinical Director
Dr. Fernando Fernandes
Chinese Medicine Licence: C-006569
Acupuncture Licence: C-0500378
(Issued by ACSS)
ERS Registration: 39558/E166752 | All practitioners hold ACSS professional licences
