Acupuncture
What
Is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of thin needles into a
patient at specific locations resulting in targeted stimulation of
the nervous system. The nervous system is the body’s communications
network, and it is capable of altering the biochemical and
physiologic properties of any intact body system.
Acupuncture can:
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Increase circulation
-
Modulate the immune system
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Relieve muscle spasm & pain
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Cause a release of
neurochemicals, including endorphins
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Optimize healthy nerve
transmission
-
Regulate hormone levels
Acupuncture maximizes the
body’s ability to heal itself. Even when acupuncture fails to
resolve a problem, it may reduce the need for medications and
improve quality of life.
What
Conditions Respond Well to Acupuncture?
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Musculoskeletal Disorders
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Arthritis/DJD & hip dysplasia
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Post-operative orthopedic
surgery rehab.
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Chronic trigger points
(working or agility dogs)
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Neurologic Problems
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Intervertebral disc disease
-
Nerve injuries/paralysis
-
Skin Problems
-
Lick granulomas
-
Allergies
-
Slow or non-healing wounds
-
Gastrointestinal Problems
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Inflammatory bowel disease
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Diarrhea or constipation
-
Poor appetite
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Feline megacolon
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Other
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Feline asthma
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Urine spraying
-
Many other problems...
Is
Acupuncture Painful?
For most animals, the insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually
painless. Acupuncture needles are much smaller than the needles used
for drawing blood. Once the needles are in place, there should be no
pain at all. Actually, many animals become very relaxed or sleepy
with their needles.
Is
Acupuncture Safe?
Acupuncture is performed using sterile, single-use needles which
minimizes the possibility of infection. And because acupuncture
balances the body’s own system of healing and no chemicals are
administered, complications rarely, if ever, develop.
How Often
Will My Pet Need Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is performed 1-2 times per week until a positive
response is observed. Acute problems usually respond within 1-3
treatments while chronic conditions generally require 3-6
treatments.. Treatments are then tapered according to patient
response. Chronic problems will necessitate maintenance treatments
every 6 weeks to 6 months. Sometimes, additional forms of
acupuncture stimulation, like electrostimulation or aquapuncture,
can speed patient response & lengthen duration between treatments.
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