What is Acupuncture?

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Veterinary acupuncture encourages healing by stimulating and correcting energy imbalances in the body. Acupuncture enhances blood circulation, nervous system stimulation, the release of anti-inflammatory and pain relieving hormones. It is a means of helping the body heal itself. It has been used successfully for centuries on animals as well as humans. Today, it is being used by certified veterinarians for various conditions.

 

Acupuncture is an Eastern medicine technique that has many applications in contemporary veterinary medicine.  It serves to bridge the gap between medicine and surgery. In the Western world, it is used primarily when medications are not effective or are contraindicated due to possible side effects, or when surgery is not feasible. It is an effective method of relieving emotional and physical suffering in pets. An acupuncture visit with Dr.Perry will include an initial consultation that includes an assessment and physical exam. The day of treatment, along with the acupuncture procedure itself, she will also give instructions in basic exercises, pet massage, nutritional counseling and potential medical management as required.

 

How does Acupuncture work?

 

Acupuncture works primarily through the central nervous system affecting the musculoskeletal, hormonal and cardiovascular systems. It does more than relieve pain. How it works depends on the condition treated and which points are utilized. Acupuncture causes a release of many neurotransmitters and neurohormones, some of which are endorphins, the body’s natural pain killing hormones. It also increases circulation, relieves muscle spasms, stimulates nerves and the body's defence systems as well as numerous other beneficial effects.

 

Is it painful? How will my animal react?

 

Acupuncture is performed with sterile thin stainless steel needles. There is occasionally a brief moment of sensitivity as the needle is inserted into the skin, mostly in certain sensitive areas. Once the needles are in place, most animals relax, often falling asleep during treatment.

 

Is it safe?

 

Acupuncture is a safe therapy when practiced by a certified acupuncturist. Occasionally an animal’s condition may deteriorate temporarily before improving. Because acupuncture balances the body’s own system of healing and no chemicals are administered. Complications and side effects are rare.

 

How often and for how long does one need treatment?

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Treatments may last from 10 seconds to 30 minutes depending on the condition and the method employed. There are many ways of stimulating acupuncture points including needles, electroacupuncture, moxibustion (warming the point). Patients are often treated 1-3 times a week for 4-6 weeks. A positive response is often noticed within the  first 4-6 treatments, sometimes earlier, depending on the condition being treated.

 

Acupuncture is most commonly used for:

 

Musculoskeletal problems

• Hip dysplasia, arthritis, intervertebral disc disease, chronic injuries/pain

 

Skin problems

• Lick granulomas, sensory neurodermatitis

 

Nervous disorders

• Traumatic nerve injury, certain types of paralysis

 

Respiratory problems

• Feline asthma

 

Gastrointestinal disorders

• Constipation or diarrhea, bladder infections

• Lameness or awkward gait, seizures, chronic sinusitis , cancer pain, tendonitis, muscle strains and sprains.

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