"It matters not whether medicine is modern or ancient, it only matters that it produces a result."

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to stimulate  a healing response. In focal areas under the skin, each point is a concentration of nerve endings, blood vessels, lymph ducts, connective tissues, and mast cells that when stimulated, create a specific action in the body by releasing endogenous opioids, serotonin, and endorphins. There are hundreds of points that largely fall along one of the 14 acupuncture meridians. The meridians relate to the musculoskeletal system as well as the internal organs of the body and when "scanned" or palpated by a veterinarian, can provide information on what the body is experiencing both locally and holistically. 

History of ACupuncture?

Is Acupuncture Safe?

Generally speaking, acupuncture is quite safe when performed by a qualified veterinary acupuncturist. Unlike many medications, Acupuncture is non-toxic and adverse reactions are minimal. There are rare and minor side effects such as local infection and bruising where the needle is inserted.  It is important to have a Licensed Veterinarian with additional formal acupuncture training when performing these techniques.

How many treatments are required?

It depends on the condition, how long the condition has been present and the age of the animal. Generally, acute conditions resolve quickly while chronic conditions require multiple treatments. For example, an acute lameness is generally resolved within 3-5 treatments.

Is acupuncture scientific? 

In 1997, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) released a consensus statement on the benefits of acupuncture.

NIH Acupuncture Article

In 2003, the World Health Organization (WHO) conducted an extensive review of clinical trials involving acupuncture. Based on the report, acupuncture impacts the body in many ways including:

• Stimulating the conduction of electromagnetic signals, which may release immune system cells or pain-killing chemicals
• Activation of your body’s natural opioid system, which may help reduce pain or induce sleep
• Stimulation of your hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which modulates numerous body systems
• Change in the secretion of neurotransmitters and neurohormones, which may positively influence brain chemistry

WHO Acupuncture Article

What diseases does acupuncture treat?

Veterinary Acupuncture can treat a variety of diseases including but not limited to pain and lameness, neurological disorders (seizures, disc disease, wobbler’s disease), dermatological disorders, behavioral disorders (anxiety, fear and aggression), reproductive disorders (infertility or impotence), and gastrointestinal disorders (colic, vomiting, diarrhea, inflammatory bowel disease). It can also improve the overall quality of life in geriatric and/or cancer patients.

Acupuncture Techniques

Electroacupuncture is the use of a small electric current between a pair of acupuncture needles for added stimulation.

Moxibustion is the burning of Moxa which heats the needle or acupoint for increased stimulation.

Aquapuncture is the injection of a substance (B12, Blood, herbal solutions) into an acupoint for longer lasting stimulation.

Dry Needling is the insertion of an acupuncture needle into the skin to stimulate an acupoint.