What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a type of medical treatment that involves the insertion of very small needles into the skin at specific locations to improve healing. In Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), it is believed that health is maintained by the smooth flow of energy throughout the body. This energy is called "Qi" and it flows along very discrete "energy highways" called meridians. In TCVM, when there is blockage or disruption in the flow of Qi, disease and pain result. Acupuncture points represent points along these energy highways where the Qi can be manipulated and normal flow re-established, therein restoring health.

Scientifically, each acupuncture point and meridian anatomically relates to either a nerve, blood vessel, and/or muscle plane in the body. By manipulating an acupuncture point, we are stimulating the nerve, promoting blood flow, and relieving muscle tension.

In these very real ways, acupuncture, quite simply, helps the body heal itself.

Acupuncture works by physically interacting with blood vessels, myofascia, and nerves. When the acupuncture needle is inserted in the skin, it activates the body's mechanoreceptors (touch receptors) and sends a signal through a sensory nerve to the spinal cord, altering the body's pain pathways and directly lowering pain perception. In addition, the needling initiates local reactions in the tissue that cause improved blood flow, increased immune function, and the release of endorphins & enkephalins-- the body's "natural pain-killing" hormones.

How does it work?

Does Acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is performed with sterile, single use, thin, stainless steel needles. They are very small-- about the diameter of a cat's whisker-- and flexible, so acupuncture is usually very well tolerated by most animals. Occasionally, there can be a brief moment of discomfort as the needle penetrates a particularly sensitive or sore area. Usually, though, most animals aren't even aware the needles are being placed. Once the needles are in place, most animals relax, and some even fall asleep during treatment.

Acupuncture FAQS:

Does acupuncture hurt?

Acupuncture is performed with sterile, single use, thin, stainless-steel needles. They are very small-- about the diameter of a cat's whisker-- and flexible, so acupuncture is usually very well tolerated by most animals. Occasionally, there can be a brief moment of discomfort as the needle penetrates a particularly sensitive or sore area. Usually, though, most animals aren't even aware the needles are being placed. Once the needles are in place, most animals relax, and some even fall asleep during treatment.

Is it safe?

Acupuncture is one of the safest therapies utilized if practiced by a competent acupuncturist. Side effects are rare. Occasionally an animal may be sore after treatment, but this generally resolves within 24 hours. Because acupuncture balances the body's own system of healing without the use of chemicals, complications rarely, if ever, develop.

How long does an acupuncture session take?

The initial evaluation is generally about an hour and each subsequent appointment is 45 minutes. The acupuncture treatment itself usually lasts anywhere from

15-30 minutes. There are many ways of stimulating acupuncture points including the use of dry needles, electro-acupuncture, as well as laser acupuncture.

How often will my pet need acupuncture?

Patients are commonly treated 1-3 times per week or 4-6 weeks. Acupuncture is not a one-time treatment modality and it requires multiple treatments to realize its benefits. A positive response is usually noticed within the first 4 treatments.

What kind of conditions can be treated with acupuncture?

Small Animals:

arthritis
back and neck pain
intervertebral disk disease
cruciate disease
urinary incontinence
chronic kidney disease
"dry eye"
constipation
digestive problems
IBD
chronic sinusitis
immune dysfunction

Equine:

lameness
laminitis
navicular syndrome
back soreness
saddle fit pain
tendon/ligament injuries
colic
gastric ulcers
EPM
fertility problems
behavioral issues