Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine sterile needles through the skin stimulating specific points on the body to cause a desired healing effect. This technique has been used in veterinary practice in China for over 3000 years to treat many diseases or ailments.
It is commonly used to encourage natural healing, reduce or relieve pain and improve function of affected areas of the body. Acupuncture is safe and effective and is often successfully used as an alternative form of therapy or treatment.
Today acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary medicine (TCVM) is widely accepted and has become mainstream. It can be used either by itself or integrated with Western veterinary medicine to treat a wide variety of health problems and diseases in animals. At times, when integrated, the two approaches offer the best of both Western an Eastern medicine to offer your pet the best chances of returning to health. The goals of the two forms of medicine are the same, both hope to promote health and prevent disease.
Acupuncture can be beneficial for:
Musculoskeletal problems: muscle soreness, sprains, back pain, disc problems, arthritis and degenerative joint disease.
Neurological disorders: nerve injury or paralysis, epilepsy, laryngeal hemiplegia.
Skin problems: allergies, lick granuloma and delayed wound healing.
Respiratory problems: feline asthma or chronic small airway disease.
Gastro intestinal disorders: gastric ulcers, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic constipation.
Other chronic conditions: behavioural problems (anxiety), ear infections, infertility, hypothyroidism, Cushing's disease, kidney failure, liver disease, chronic pain, geriatric stiffness and weakness.
Performance and athletic dogs: regular treatments may be used to improve strength and flexibility, treat minor injuries, and help keep muscles and tendons resistant to injury.
Treatments:
The number of treatments will vary with each pet and the condition being treated. The initial assessment and acupuncture treatment is a one hour appointment. Each subsequent appointment is 30 to 40 minutes. For acute problems, only 1-3 treatments may be required. For chronic conditions, a minimum of 4-6 treatments done weekly may be recommended. Most patients respond with noticeable improvement after 3-4 treatments. Some degenerative conditions may need monthly treatments over time.
If you feel that your pet could benefit from Acupuncture and TCVM and you are interested in learning more, please speak with your veterinarian about a referral to Dr. Stephanie Reid, CVA, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist.
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