ACUPUNCTURE
Dog and cat ACUpuncture
Vet acupuncture is derived from the Latin names “acus” meaning needle and “puncta” meaning to prick. The practice of acupuncture is placing very fine needles into specific points on the body to assist the endogenous homeostasis of the various body systems within an organism (bringing the body back to balance). Western Veterinary Acupuncture uses evidence based research to target specific points in the body. Needles are used to diffuse localized pain by stimulating nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. This boosts the body’s natural painkillers and increases blood flow. Often used for conditions involving musculoskeletal systems, such as acute or chronic neck, back, or joint pain. This can be combined with electro-stimulation, laser, manual therapy and pEMF therapy.
Some of the common conditions your pet may have we can treat with acupuncture in your home:
Musculoskeletal issues: This includes arthritis, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), and other joint or spinal problems.
Pain management: Acupuncture can help manage pain associated with various conditions such as postoperative pain, chronic pain syndromes, and musculoskeletal injuries.
Neurological disorders: Acupuncture may assist in the treatment of conditions like paralysis, nerve injuries, and neurological deficits.
Gastrointestinal disorders: Acupuncture might help with conditions such as vomiting, diarrhea, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Respiratory conditions: Acupuncture may complement conventional treatments for conditions like nasal discharge, asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory issues.
Skin conditions: Allergic dermatitis, hot spots, and other skin conditions may benefit from acupuncture therapy.
Behavioral issues: Acupuncture can sometimes be used to address behavioral problems such as anxiety, aggression, or compulsive disorders in animals.
Immune system support: Acupuncture can sometimes be used to support the immune system, particularly in animals with chronic illnesses or immune-mediated conditions.
Geriatric care: Acupuncture can be helpful in managing the symptoms associated with aging, such as stiffness, weakness, and reduced mobility.
It's important to note that while acupuncture can be beneficial for many conditions, it is often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes conventional veterinary medicine and other alternative therapies. Additionally, not all animals may respond the same way to acupuncture, and individual results may vary.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5556488/
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Acupuncture can stimulate the healing of some conditions while also providing effective pain relief. It can improve a patient’s comfort level and help speed up the post-operative recovery period. Acupuncture can also be used in conjunction with chronic medication (Carprofen, Gabapentin, Opioids) to reduce the dose or even eliminate the need for daily medication!
The success of acupuncture depends on the patient’s response, the disorder being treated and the frequency in sessions. We will help you put together an appropriate therapy plan based on your pet’s needs. Some cases the results will be almost immediate, in other cases it can take up to 4 sessions before you may start to notice a difference.
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Acupuncture is a safe alternative for pain management. Adverse reactions are rare, some things that you may notice after an acupuncture session are (should not last more than 36 hours):
Mild transient bruising or swelling at the needle site
Some conditions may appear mildly worse after a session but should resolve within 36 hours
Soreness/stiffness the next day - like a deep tissue massage
Tired/sleepiness
If you notice any of these effects lasting longer than 36 hours, please let the veterinarian know at your next session, so that appropriate adjustments to the treatment plan can be made.
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The first session will last approximately an hour, during this time I will assess your pet and the concerns you have regarding your pet’s health and wellbeing. The veterinarian will then perform a complete exam (myofascial, musculoskeletal, and neurologic exam) before developing an appropriate treatment plan. I will administer the first acupuncture session for your pet.
Subsequent treatment sessions will be dose dependent, but usually are shorter. During these visits, I more will briefly assess your pet and discuss how your pet has been doing after their previous visit, before administering the acupuncture session.
