Medical Acupuncture

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very thin, sterile needles into specific locations or “points” on the patient.  Needles stimulate nearby nerves which release chemicals that affect other nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and the entire nervous system.  The nervous system releases hormones that decrease pain (e.g. endorphins), reduce inflammation, increase circulation, and promote healing.  Acupuncture helps to release restrictions in fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds all muscles in the body, and this helps to relieve muscle tightness and soreness.  Electroacupuncture (the application of tiny clips to specific needles which allows for the passage of a mild electric current between the two needles) may be used to enhance the nerve stimulation.

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What can you expect?

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Acupuncture needles are very thin so insertion usually causes minimal discomfort.  Pets often don’t seem to notice placement of most needles.  Between 5 and 20 needles is typical and treatment often lasts for 10-20 minutes.  Acupuncture has a calming effect on many pets and most seem to relax and enjoy their treatment.  Some patients improve after a single session and for others, a few sessions are needed before improvement is appreciated.  Some pets appear energized after treatments while others seem relaxed.  Occasionally there may be mild soreness afterwards, but this resolves within 36 hours.  Risks are minimal and can be discussed during your first appointment.

 

What conditions can benefit from acupuncture? 

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Injuries and Conservative Management of Conditions

  • Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL/ACL) tear

  • Patellar luxation

  • Muscle strain (e.g. iliopsoas)

  • Tendinopathy/tendinitis (e.g. biceps or supraspinatus)

  • Hip and elbow dysplasia

Post-Operative Recovery

  • TPLO/TTA or extracapsular (excap) surgery for CCL injury

  • FHO or total hip replacement

  • Fracture repair/stabilization

  • Spinal surgery such as hemilaminectomy or ventral slot

  • Limb amputation

Neurologic Disease

  • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

  • Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE) or “stroke”

  • Degenerative myelopathy (DM)

  • Wobblers syndrome

Geriatric Care and Pain Management

  • Osteoarthritis (OA) / Degenerative joint disease (DJD)