What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of small needles into specific points to stimulate small nerve endings in the skin. This stimulation tells the body to trigger the release of chemicals, such as endorphins, that promote pain relief and healing. Traditional Chinese Medicine utilizes acupuncture to improve the flow of Qi, or energy, flow through the body. We combine eastern medicine (acupuncture) and western medicine to treat many conditions and have seen great success when we pair the two treatment methods together.
Why Acupuncture?
- Acupuncture offers an alternative treatment for pets who cannot tolerate medications or if there is a contraindication with another medication the pet is currently on.
- Little to no side effects or drug interactions.
- Can be used as a supplemental treatment for pets with chronic conditions where medications lose effectiveness over time as the condition worsens or progresses.
Conditions acupuncture may treat:
- Osteoarthritis
- Chronic Pain
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Epilepsy
- Nausea (especially to help relieve side effects of chemotherapy)
- Cushing's Disease
- Asthma
- Chronic Urinary Tract Disease
To start acupuncture treatments, we will schedule a consultation to ensure your pet is a good candidate. If the doctor determines that your pet could benefit from acupuncture, they may start the first treatment during the initial consultation visit.
Typically, acupuncture sessions are started 1-2 times per week, depending on the severity of the condition. Pet owners should anticipate 2-3 treatments before they see noticeable improvement in their pet’s symptoms, but some animals take 6-7. After 4-6 treatments, frequency of appointments can be reduced to every other week, then monthly, then as needed. Every pet will be different in their response time and benefits.
To schedule your acupuncture consultation, call us at 919-304-1600.