The #1 reason people avoid seeing an acupuncturist is because they are afraid of pain! There are multiple ways to move qi and blood in the body, providing excellent results without needles.
In my practice I offer microcurrent and laser acupuncture as alternatives to needling. Low level lasers can help regenerate cells, decrease pain, reduce inflammation, and improve circulation. Recent studies on laser acupuncture have included advanced brain imaging for measuring various physiological effects to the body. These studies show that laser acupuncture has physiological effects, not only locally, but also in the brain, similar to needle acupuncture.
Microcurrent and laser acupuncture are great alternatives for children too!