Q: What is Acupuncture?

A: Acupuncture is a therapeutic modality that is over 3000 years old.  It treats disease by placing needles into specific sites along specific pathways.

Channels, or meridians, are the Chinese method of mapping points.  We know today that many of these meridians lie on major nerve or vascular pathways.

The stimulation of acupuncture points triggers nerves and other receptors which then transmit to the brain to release pain killing hormones called endorphins (and others). These act like morphine in their ability to suppress pain - nature's own painkillers. They may also act on blood vessels to improve organ health and function.

It may also bring the body back to a homeostasis (balance) which can help a number of metabolic, endocrine, behavioral or pain related problems.

Q: What Conditions Can Benefit From Acupuncture?

A: There are many situations where acupuncture is useful, alone or in with other therapies:

  • Arthritis This is one of the most common ailments that we see.  Acupuncture can be quite effective in easing the pain and increasing the mobility of geriatric and arthritic animals.
  • Geriatrics Older animals can benefit from increased muscle strength, improved organ function and a generalized easing of pain.
  • Neurologic conditions Acupuncture has been shown to help epileptics whose seizures are not adequately controlled by conventional medication, paralyzed animals, and other nuerologic conditions where pain or paralysis are involved.
  • Gastrointestinal Problems Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation can all be effectively treated with acupuncture.
  • Musculoskeletal Strains and Pains Back soreness, hind end weakness, ligament and tendon damage (though not rupture) and muscle pain can be significantly eased by acupuncture.
  • Internal Medical Problems Organ function can be improved by stimulating nerves that share their spinal chord connection.  Cats who commonly develop renal failure (kidney disease) often benefit from acupuncture.
  • Behavioral Troubles We have seen animals who suffer from separation anxiety, self mutilation and inappropriate urination benefit from acupuncture.

Acupuncture should always be considered when an animal has not responded to conventional medicine. It is a tool for us to use in addition to the other medical and surgical tools that veterinarians can offer your pets.

Q: What is an Acupuncture Treatment Like?

A: We start with a detailed history of the problem, which often includes questions about the personality and habits of the animal. Records from a referring veterinarian are always appreciated.  During this time, the animal is free to wander and explore the room, allowing observation of his gait and demeanor. Then the hands-on part of the visit begins, with a thorough physical exam. The owner is encouraged to be right with the animal, and very little restraint is usually needed. By the time the needles are inserted, the pet is usually relaxed enough to be distracted by a little scratching behind the ears. By a few minutes after all the needles are in, many of them are asleep. It is common to use about 10-20 needles per treatment - although this varies. Most needles are left in for 10 to 20 minutes. Some conditions, especially paralysis, are further helped by electro-acupuncture. This is the application of a small electrical current between needles. Another technique is aquapuncture, which is the injection of a liquid (usually vitamin B 12) into acupuncture points for a longer effect.

Q: How Many Treatments are Necessary?

A: Each treatment plan is individualized, depending on the particular animal’s condition and response. For most conditions, we do weekly treatments for the first 3 to 6 visits, and most beneficial reactions will start within that time. Sometimes that is all that is needed. In very acute injuries or paralytic conditions, treatments can be given as often as every other day. It is recommended that you commit to at least 3 treatments before deciding if acupuncture is right for you and your pet. As the condition improves, the treatment interval is increased until no longer necessary, or until we find a maintenance schedule that is right for the pet. For example, many geriatric pets do well with a treatment every 6 to 8 weeks.