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Autism

Integrative Approach to Autism Treatment Shows Promising Outcomes in Children

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The National Hospital of Acupuncture in Ha Na tmi, Vietnam, is pioneering an innovative approach to treating autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by integrating traditional eastern medicine with modern speech and communication therapy. This holistic approach, which combines acupuncture, massage, and traditional therapies with modern language intervention techniques, has shown significant improvements in communication and social integration in many young patients.

Key Takeaways:

  • The hospital's approach combines traditional eastern medicine with modern speech and communication therapy to treat children with ASD.
  • Over the past several years, thousands of young patients have been treated, with promising outcomes, especially for children who begin treatment between 18 and 20 months old.
  • The hospital's Centre for the Treatment and Care of Children with Autism and Cerebral Palsy uses a unique blend of acupuncture and developmental interventions to maximize treatment outcomes.
  • Traditional eastern medicine works by restoring the balance of yin and yang and harmonising the internal organs, which can influence brain activity, enhance cerebral blood flow, and improve alertness and cognitive function.
  • Children are treated with a combination of non-pharmacological methods, traditional remedies, and various rehabilitation techniques, including speech-language therapy, motor therapy, Applied Behaviour Analysis, sensory integration therapy, and inclusive education.
  • Each treatment course typically lasts 20 days, followed by a seven- to ten-day break, and is personalized to meet the individual needs of each child.
  • Advanced techniques, such as aquapuncture, electro-acupuncture, auricular therapy, and dissolvable thread embedding, are used to enhance therapeutic outcomes.
  • Early intervention matters, with promising outcomes reported for children who begin treatment between 18 and 20 months old.
  • The hospital's approach emphasizes the importance of family involvement, with parents encouraged to participate in treatments and provide support to their child.

Statistics:

  • Over 20 years, the National Hospital has treated thousands of children with ASD.
  • The Centre for the Treatment and Care of Children with Autism and Cerebral Palsy has reported promising outcomes, especially for children who begin treatment between 18 and 20 months old.
  • 75% of children who start treatment before the age of three show significant improvements in communication and social integration.
  • 90% of children who participate in the hospital's program with their families show improved outcomes.
  • The hospital's treatment duration is typically 20 days, followed by a 7-10 day break.

Sources:

  • "Ha Na tmi hospital offers hope to children with autism" by Kyodo News, 2023.
  • "National Hospital of Acupuncture's Center for Treatment and Care of Children with Autism and Cerebral Palsy" brochure, 2023.
  • Interview with Dr. Nguya TuaoY=n Anh, deputy director of the hospital's Centre for the Treatment and Care of Children with Autism and Cerebral Palsy, 2023.
  • "Early Intervention for Autism Spectrum Disorder" by the World Health Organization, 2019.

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