Acupuncture can be used to relieve discomfort due to a variety of diseases and conditions.
Therapy may focus on the musculoskeletal, reproductive, neurological, or gastrointestinal systems. Acupuncture can also be used after surgery to manage pain and hasten healing and recovery.
Acupuncture points are groupings of nerves and blood vessels found between muscles and fascia that physically and naturally respond to manual activation with needles. By stimulating these areas the acupuncturist is able to trigger increased blood flow and thereby release specific neurotransmitters that activate the body’s pain-relieving system and that will ultimately promote tissue healing and combat inflammatory pathways.
Acupuncture (although not a cure-all) is definitely useful in cases where muscles and nerves have been impacted by an injury and/or arthritis. The more acute the issue – the better chance acupuncture has at limiting the damage to the cranial nerves, spinal cord, and/or peripheral nerves by decreasing the inflammation in the area and setting up the cascade of neurotransmitters needed for nerve regeneration and healing.
Because the needles used in acupuncture are extremely thin, they cause minimal or no pain and are generally well tolerated by pets. However, incorrect placement of the needle can result in pain or complications, which is why you should only have a qualified veterinary practitioner perform acupuncture on your pet.
To determine if your pet’s condition(s) may be responsive to this treatment modality, please set up an exam with one of our veterinarians.
