Sat: 8AM – 5PM
Sun: Closed
Sat: 8AM – 5PM
Sun: Closed
Acupuncture Therapy
Treatment with medical acupuncture and its related techniques of laser therapy and certain forms of massage help by promoting health and well-being, by preventing illness, and by addressing a variety of medical conditions and pain problems.
In addition to its well known effects acute and chronic pain, acupuncture can help to address a wide range of medical issues, including:
• Musculoskeletal complaints, including knee pain and hip pain, osteoarthritis, tendinitis, back and neck pain and much more.
• Neurologic problems such as spinal cord injuries, disk disease, peripheral nerve diseases, and other nerve based problems.
• Digestive ailments, including inflammatory and motility problems
• Respiratory issues, such as sinusitis and recurrent infections.
How does acupuncture work?
Acupuncture starts with a type of physical examination called “myofascial palpation” that allows the doctor to determine the location and sources of discomfort and dysfunction. Acupuncture typically involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into different areas of the body. The main therapeutic effects of needling begin with activation of nerve fibers near a needle placement point. These stimuli then bring about changes that help to balance nerve signaling and neurotransmitter activity from the “periphery” (i.e., the acupuncture point) to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and autonomic nervous system centers (that govern processes like glandular activity, immune status, digestion, mood, and more). Acupuncture also releases tension from the muscles and enveloping fibrous network called “fascia”.
The number of treatments needed differ from patient to patient. For difficult or long-standing conditions, the pet may need one or two treatments weekly for several weeks. Usually, however, one sees a change in the patient within the first few treatments if acupuncture is going to make a meaningful difference.
What can my pet expect during and after an acupuncture treatment session?
Most pets enjoy their acupuncture treatment sessions. Pets are encouraged to relax on a comfortable bed after their initial exam and enjoy a tasty snack. The needle insertion process is usually nearly painless, and most pets tolerate it very well. Needles typically remain in place for anywhere from a few minutes to 15 minutes. The acupuncture session may also include electroacupuncture treatment, where a small nonpainful electrical stimulation unit is attached to the needles. Most pets are relaxed and enjoy their acupuncture treatments. Acupuncture may be followed with manual treatments such as massage, stretching and trigger point release and laser therapy. Following treatments, most side effects are mild and pleasant – a sense of relaxation, an improvement in sleep, or improvement in digestive tract transit. Uncommonly, some patients may experience a temporary worsening of the condition or mild soreness that typically improves within 24 hours of the treatment.