Healing & Recovery
Acupuncture is a form of medicine that has been used for over 2,000 years and is also used to care for pets. It involves stimulating certain points on the body with the use of needles. It is used to alleviate pain and treat various physical and mental conditions in cats and dogs.
As a brief summary, acupuncture increases blood flow to promote local healing, inactivates certain painful nerve signals, and releases internal opioids in the brain to help relieve pain.
At Frontier Veterinary Hospital, acupuncture is often used as a supplement to medical therapy to help restore your pet's health and vitality.
The Acupuncture Technique
Acupuncture involves inserting tiny needles into an animal's body at precise points called meridians. This is where the blood vessels converge with the nerves. The needles help guide vital energy along these meridians, supporting the nervous system and promoting circulation.
Types of Acupuncture for Pets
There are several different methods of acupuncture available, each providing its own benefits.
Dry Needling
Dry needling is the use of only acupuncture needles. When dry needling is applied to your cat or dog's affected muscle or trigger point, it can decrease muscle tightness, increase blood flow, and reduce pain.
Electroacupuncture
Electroacupuncture is a form of acupuncture where a small electric current is passed between a pair of acupuncture needles to alleviate severe or chronic pain.
Hemo-acupuncture
This method of acupuncture involves inserting a large needle into a blood vessel to draw or release a few drops of blood in order to help clear localized inflammation in a specific area.
Aquapuncture
Aquapuncture is the injection of water, Vitamin B solution, or some other liquid substance used to stimulate an acupuncture point for a longer period, while also getting the benefit of the effects of the liquid
The Benefits
Acupuncture for pets provides a number of benefits, including:
- Pets in poor health will benefit from the lack of systemic side effects
- Lowers the amount of waste products produced
- Helps relax muscles and relieve pain
- Improves metabolic waste removal from the body
- Promotes an increased blood flow which boosts oxygen in tissues
Common Uses for Acupuncture
Our vets often recommend the use of acupuncture or other types of Chinese medicine for a number of issues, including:
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Dermatology & Skin Issues
Acupuncture treatment can help encourage increased circulation, which can help hot spots, granulomas and allergic dermatitis. It can also improve healing and reduce pain, leading to less itching and subsequent over-grooming.
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Gastrointestinal Issues
Acupuncture may stimulate digestive secretions, which helps to promote healthy digestive activity. Conditions such as diarrhea or nausea may benefit from increased blood flow.
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Musculoskeletal Issues
Acupuncture can often be used for injury rehabilitation. Conditions such as arthritis, nerve injuries and hip dysplasia also tend to respond well to acupuncture.
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Pain Management
Medical treatments such as chemotherapy can feel very uncomfortable for your pet. They will often be combined with acupuncture in an effort to relieve some discomfort, helping your cat or dog to fight their illness.
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Respiratory Issues
The immune-calming and anti-inflammatory capabilities of acupuncture treatment can improve asthma, allergies and other conditions.