The ancient Chinese technique of acupuncture involves inserting fine needles into key points of the body as a way, according to acupuncture practitioners, to restore the body's energy flow.

Acupuncture is thought to signal the brain to release endorphins. These endorphins, in turn, can assist patients by reducing pain and promoting relaxed or calmer breathing. While acupuncture has been widely used in China to treat asthma, research in Western countries has not found a strong connection between acupuncture and improvement of asthma among children.

Infants as young as three weeks old can undergo acupuncture therapy. Instead of adult-sized acupuncture needles, an acupuncturist treating children may use thin needles to stimulate certain body points or may also use heat, massage, magnets, or lasers.