- How does acupuncture work?
- The gentle insertion of the acupuncture needle leads to a local inflammatory effect which results in a release of naturally occurring pain relieving and anti-inflammatory substances (endorphins).
- This inflammatory effect also results in improved blood flow to that area, and relaxation of the muscles and tissues both locally and at other areas.
- How do I know if acupuncture is a good choice for my pet?
- Acupuncture can benefit almost any pet and it is a gentle, non-invasive and low risk therapy. Only a small percentage of patients fail to respond at all. In addition, side effects are extremely rare and if they do occur, they resolve quickly. Whether the pet is experiencing an acute condition (such as fever or infection), pain or discomfort (such as arthritis or back disease), or a chronic organ system disease (such as gastrointestinal or urinary tract disorders) acupuncture can provide immediate relief to the affected areas, help decrease the severity or frequency of the problem and even help the body heal itself. Typically, a combination of therapies can lead to the best results and acupuncture is a great complement to traditional medical therapies. It is also a wonderful option for pets that are having difficulty tolerating the systemic side effects of drugs.
- What kinds of problems can be treated with acupuncture?
- Common indications for acupuncture include: back/neck pain, paresis/paralysis, geriatric weakness, gastrointestinal disorders (including diarrhea, vomiting, constipation), urinary tract disease, respiratory problems (including asthma, bronchitis, rhinitis), chronic kidney or liver disease, skin conditions, immune-mediated diseases, fever, post-operative pain, seizures.
- Does acupuncture hurt?
- The insertion of the needles is nearly painless and most pets tolerate acupuncture very well. It can sometimes take a few treatments for them to understand what is going on, and I will work with each pet individually to make sure they are comfortable.
- In the case of a nervous pet, points can be selected to help your pet relax, or we can use fewer, more tolerable points initially.
- How many treatments are needed?
- Typically, an acute condition will respond within the first 1-3 treatments and chronic conditions will need 4-6 weekly sessions before the full response is achieved. Many chronic conditions will require maintenance therapy after the initial weekly sessions. The frequency of the maintenance therapy varies based on the patient but is typically every 1-3 months.
- What other services do you provide?
- My goal as a veterinary acupuncturist is to work in conjunction with your regular veterinarian to help relieve pain, improve quality of life, and keep your pet’s overall health in balance. In some cases, I can assist with recommendations for your pet’s diet and prescribe Chinese herbs.