The practice of acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. However, its results have only been anecdotal until recently. People could see or feel the results, but never really understood why it worked until now.

Medical acupuncture is an adaptation of Chinese acupuncture; through the study of anatomy, physiology and pathology. Scientific research has allowed us to map out the nervous system and in the recent years, medical science have shown that stimulation of individual nerves at certain acupuncture points can affect targeted areas of the body. This stimulation of an acupuncture point can have local effects, central regulatory effects and can aid in trigger point release. It is amazing that we can now affect the neurophysiological state of the body by simply stimulating certain acupuncture points.

WHY DOES IT WORK?

Acupuncture points (“acupoints”) are often in locations where nerve bundles and blood vessels lie closely together. These are often found on the fascia and muscles. Stimulation at acupoints are made through insertion of very fine, sterile stainless steel needles. These stimuli can influence how pain signals are transmitted to the spinal cord and can improve analgesia (pain relief) through the release of the body’s natural endorphins. Some of these effects can blunt the perception of pain locally, as well as systemically.

Acupoints also modulates the immune system because many disease processes are in response to inflammation or chronic stress. A specific point is chosen with the understanding of how it can influence the nervous system  and how it can affect the muscle or organ in which the nerve innervates. The goal is to optimize the body’s natural functions to promote self-healing.

HOW CAN I HELP MY PET?

Veterinary Acupuncture is used in conjunction with conventional care for your pet. An integrative care appointment starts with a review of your pet’s medical history, complemented with a complete physical, neurological and myofascial examination. From there, your pet can receive a treatment of acupuncture (with or without electrical stimulation). The treatment choice depends on the pet and our goal for that appointment. The frequency of the appointments will vary, depending on the reason for visit. The first few appointments will usually be every 1-2 weeks, to maximize the cumulative effects of acupuncture. Over time, the appointments can be spaced out depending on your pet’s progress.

Veterinary Acupuncture can be used for pain control (in acute trauma or chronic osteoarthritis), neurological/spinal cord disorders (intervertebral disc disease), post-operative pain/healing, gastrointestinal disease, liver & kidney disorders and palliative care.