Veterinary Acupuncture
What is Medical Acupuncture?
Medical acupuncture is a therapeutic method that involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles.
Modern medical practitioners developed medical acupuncture as an adaptation of Chinese
acupuncture. Instead of relying on inexact metaphors to describe the body’s responses to
treatment, we employ current knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology, all in keeping
with evidence-based medicine. The location and source of discomfort can be determined
through physical examination.
What Can Medical Acupuncture Do?
Treatment with medical acupuncture, laser therapy and massage can help promote health and
well-being by preventing illness and addressing a variety of medical conditions and pain
problems.
What Are Some Specific Benefits?
In addition to its well-known effects on acute and chronic pain, medical acupuncture addresses
a wide range of medical issues, including:
- Respiratory issues, such as sinusitis and recurrent infections
- Digestive ailments, including inflammation and motility problems
- Neurologic problems such as peripheral neuropathy, sciatica, spinal cord injury, disk disease, and nerve-based pain problems
- Musculoskeletal disorders, including knee pain, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, back pain and neck pain
How Does Acupuncture Work?
The main therapeutic effects of needling begin with activation of nerve fibers near an
acupuncture point. When nerve fibers are activated, neurotransmitters are released from the
“periphery” (i.e. the acupuncture point) to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord)
and the autonomic nervous system that governs processes like glandular activity, immunity,
digestion, mood, and more. Acupuncture also releases tension from muscles and their
surrounding fibrous network called “fascia”.
How Many Treatments Will Be Needed? The number of treatments needed differs from patient to patient. For difficult or long-standing conditions, a patient may need one or two treatments weekly for several weeks. Usually, however, one sees a positive change in the patient within the first few treatments.
Contact Del Mar Veterinary Hospital today to learn more about our acupuncture services and to see if your pet is the right candidate.