Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to cause a desired healing effect by balancing the energy or “Qi” (pronounced “chi”) in the body. Acupuncture works by stimulating the nervous system, endocrine system and immune systems in the body. Plain needles, electrostimulation (electro-acupuncture), injection of substances into acupuncture points (aqua-acupuncture), laser acupuncture, or moxabustion (heat applied to needles or acupoints) can be used to stimulate acupoints. By stimulating chemicals such as endorphins and serotonin to be released by the brain, acupuncture can help control and relieve pain. Acupuncture has also been shown to support the immune system, increase white blood cell counts, improve endocrine function, relax muscles, regulate the intestinal tract, reduce inflammation, improve local blood flow and speed healing. Acupuncture can be used to treat many different problems in animals. It is especially useful to control chronic pain and disease. It can replace western pain medicine when animals cannot take them due to kidney, liver or stomach disease. Acupuncture can support and improve organ disease when western medicine has little to offer, or help western medicine regulate diseases such as diabetes or hypothyroidism. Acupuncture is frequently combined with other traditional Chinese therapies such as Chinese Herbal Medicine, Food Therapy and Tui-na (Chinese meridian massage). We believe the results are improved when we use more of these therapies together. Diet and nutritional supplements are also valuable and are included as needed. We will integrate these therapies with the routine medical care provided by your regular veterinarian.

Types of Acupuncture

Traditional acupuncture

The insertion of acupuncture needles into specific acupoints on the body. These acupoints are on described meridians (or channels) through which energy or “chi “ flows. Specific points are chosen based on each animals’ individual condition or diagnosis.

Electro-Acupuncture

As with traditional acupuncture, needles are inserted on specific points along the body. The needles are then attached to a device that generates continuous electric pulses using small clips. These devices are used to adjust the frequency and intensity of the impulse being delivered, depending on the condition being treated. Different frequencies can be used to decrease pain or stimulate nerve function. Electroacupuncture uses two needles at time so that the impulses can pass from one needle to the other.

Aquapuncture

Aquapuncture is the injection of a small volume of sterile fluid (such as saline or vitamin B12) to stimulate an acupuncture point. This can be used to extend the response when needed or to treat points when traditional needles will not stay in place.

Laser Acupuncture

Laser can be used to stimulate acupuncture points in place of traditional needles. This technique is useful in sensitive animals or those who will not stay still for the duration of a traditional acupuncture treatment.

Commonly Treated Conditions

Musculoskeletal

Arthritis Pain Lameness Tendon or muscle strains Ligament sprains and partial tears Joint Injuries Luxating patellas Arthritis Hip/elbow dysplasia Geriatric Hind-end Weakness

Nervous System

Seizures Disc disease Lumbosacral syndrome Degenerative myelopathy Weakness Nerve pain Vestibular syndrome Cranial nerve disease Geriatric Dementia (CCDS) Peripheral nerve disease Fibrocartilaginous embolism