Q My high school student is experiencing jaw joint clicking and pain. Is it safe for them to receive treatment at a Korean medicine clinic? I am concerned about whether acupuncture or herbal medicine is appropriate since they are in their growth phase.
A Adolescents in their growth phase can also receive jaw joint treatment, and there is no age limit for acupuncture. Treatment is performed safely within a range that does not affect growth, and the intensity of treatment and herbal medicine prescriptions are adjusted to suit the patient's age and physical condition.
Detailed Answer
In adolescents, jaw joint disorders are often caused by changes in occlusion during growth, loads during orthodontic treatment, stress, and bruxism. Acupuncture can be safely applied to children and adolescents, and the stimulation intensity and retention time are reduced compared to adults. Herbal medicine dosages are also adjusted according to the adolescent's weight and developmental status, so they do not have a negative impact on growth. If the patient is undergoing orthodontic treatment, the best course of treatment is determined in consultation with the attending orthodontist.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
Adolescence is a period of vigorous growth, and the body's self-healing ability is superior to that of adults. During this period, tension in the muscles and tendons can be rapidly relieved with appropriate acupuncture treatment. However, since vital essence is consumed for bone and muscle growth during the growth phase, we regulate Qi and blood harmoniously through prescriptions that consider the balance of replenishment and elimination, avoiding excessive drainage. We fully explain the causes of the symptoms and the treatment plan during the initial consultation with the parents.
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