Veterinary Medical Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the insertion of small thin stainless steel needles to specific points or areas on the body to affect the nervous and physiologic systems.
How does it work?
Acupuncture helps restore the body’s natural balance by sending signals through the tissues and the nerves to the spinal cord and brain. This releases chemical and signals the body to react. Acupuncture points are located where nerve bundles penetrate the tissue, in close proximity to major blood vessels, at motor points where nerves enter or exit the muscle, and at trigger points (areas of chronic muscle contraction). Local effects in the tissues of the acupuncture needle are capillary dilation(improves circulation) and immune activation, tissue repair activation, reducing inflammation, and normalizing circulation (through local and spinal controls). Systemic effects include release of metenkephalin, B-endorphin, dynorphins, opiods, and increased serotonin levels.
What is it used for?
Acupuncture is most often used to treat painful conditions such as arthritis. However, since there are nerves going to nearly every part of the body, acupuncture can be used for many conditions. Acupuncture can help aid in control of chronic diseases that are not optimally controlled by western medicine alone. Acupuncture can help achieve general wellness through preventive medicine. Acupuncture can speed healing time and control pain during recovery from surgeries and dental procedures. Acupuncture relieves muscle tension and modulates the nervous system. Veterinary medical acupuncture focuses on your pet’s individual problem and works closely with western medical diagnostics and therapies in order for a complete approach. It does not always replace the need for medications, but can lessen the length of treatment, decrease the amount of medications required, and improve recovery. Acupuncture can also be used as a sole treatment for pets that can not tolerate medication.
How does it feel?
Like a small pin prick, possible dull ache or cramp, or sensation of an impulse travelling through the tissue. Most pets become very relaxed and enjoy their treatment.
Are there any side effects?
Some pets may experience a sensation of warmth and have a red flare around the needle. This is stimulated by the axon/nerve reflex. Rarely, there may be a mild swelling or a minimal amount of bleeding at the acupuncture site.
How long does a treatment last?
The first visit includes a comprehensive examination and review of the previous medical history, diagnostics, and treatments. This first visit is about 1 hour to include the exam and treatments.
A typical follow up treatment session is about 20 minutes. Anywhere from 2 to 20 needles may be used depending on your pet’s unique exam and needs.
What are the benefits?
Acupuncture adds another avenue for optimal treatment of veterinary medical issues. The addition of acupuncture to therapy results in improved pain control, more rapid healing time, and improved outcome.
What is electroacupuncture?
Electroacupuncture uses a small device transmitting electric current to increase the effects of the treatment. Small cables can be attached to the acupuncture needles at your pet’s specific points to enhance the stimulation to the specific area if necessary.
Can be used for these body systems
Musculoskeletal & Neurologic
Arthritis and hip dysplasia
Intervertebral disk disease
Nerve injury/paralysis/paresis
Back pain
Shortened stride
Lameness
Tendon injuries
Seizures
Oral Cavity
Dental and tooth pain
Temporo-mandibular joint (TMJ) pain
Skin problems
Lick granulomas
Allergies
Wound healing
Urinary tract disorders
Feline lower urinary tract disease
Cystitis
Chronic renal disease
Gastrointestinal system
Vomiting/diarrhea
Constipation
Nausea
Inflammatory bowel disease
Fecal incontinence
Respiratory system
Asthma
Chronic upper respiratory infections
Nasal congestion
Ocular disorders
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (Dry eye)
Corneal ulcers
Reproductive problems
Irregular cycles
Ear issues
Otitis externa (Ear infections)
Oncology/cancer patients
Pain control
Nausea
Quality of life/palliative care
Declawed cats/amputees
Phantom limb pain
*As with any medical therapy, some treatments are more effective than others for an individual patient. Typically after 2 sessions we can gauge if acupuncture with be a helpful therapy for your pet.