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What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a technique for relieving pain and improving the function of organ systems by stimulating points on the surface of the body.   It strengthens the body’s immune system and stimulates the body’s adaptive-homeostatic mechanisms.   Acupuncture has been used for 3,500 years in China, and it is the main treatment for ¼ of the world’s population.

What conditions are helped by acupuncture?

In the United States, acupuncture’s reputation rests primarily on its effectiveness in pain relief for arthritis and other musculo-skeletal conditions, its ability to relieve stress and to help regulate the human female’s reproductive cycle.   In many parts of China, acupuncture and herbs are the only treatment for any and all conditions.   In veterinary medicine acupuncture has been successfully used to help many musculo-skeletal conditions, reproductive problems, gastro-intestinal malfunctions, epilepsy, self- traumatizing behaviors and chronic debilitating conditions.

Can acupuncture be combined with “regular” veterinary medicine?

Yes, in many cases acupuncture can provide good support to other forms of veterinary medicine.   For example, a study was published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association Research that showed acupuncture treatments can decrease the amount of medication needed to control seizures in epileptic dogs.   Acupuncture should not be used as a substitute for a good veterinary medical work-up.   For example, we prefer to have x-rays taken of a painful area to be treated by acupuncture in order to first make certain that the pain is not caused by a tumor which would be better treated by other methods.   If a pet is already are prescribed medication, acupuncture can still be done.   However, cortisone- related drugs and narcotics can interfere with some of the actions of acupuncture.   If it is safely possible to switch from steroids to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications before coming for acupuncture, more benefit can be derived from treatment.

What happens during a treatment?

The doctor will usually spend some time inquiring about your pet’s functioning and progress.   Then various parts of your pet’s body are palpated as the doctor evaluates points along the acupuncture meridians and looks for areas of stiffness, weakness and tenderness.   Points will then be selected for stimulation according to your pet’s condition.   Most often the stimulation will happen by the insertion of very fine sterile needles into the skin.   Other methods of stimulation that might be used are pressure, heat, injections of very small amounts of sterile saline or vitamin solutions, or monochromatic red light.   Electrical stimulation through acupuncture needles may be used.

Will my pet feel the needles?

We use very fine needles to minimize any sensation to your pet. Many animals do not seem to notice the needles, and in many cases you may see your pet relax after the needles are inserted.   Some areas may be sensitive on needling, but the discomfort is brief.   If your pet is extremely sensitive or anxious, we may use other means to stimulate the points.   Our goal is to maximize the effectiveness and minimize discomfort.

What can I expect after acupuncture treatment?

You may notice that your pet seems sleepy, lethargic or relaxed after a treatment.   This is usually related to endorphins, the body’s natural opiates, which are released during the treatment.   In a few cases there can be a temporary aggravation of the condition before you see an improvement.   Other times you may notice nothing different about your pet until a few days later.

When will I see an improvement in my pet’s condition?

Rate of improvement generally depends on the pet’s age and the length of time the condition has been present.   The young athletic animal with an acute injury might respond after one or two treatments whereas the elder, debilitated pet with a long term problem may take six or more treatments before we notice a response. Six weekly acupuncture treatments are recommended in order to fairly evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture.

Nutrition

Good nutrition is important for your pet’s overall health.   Please do your best to provide a quality diet with as many natural ingredients as possible.   We can suggest some commercial brands, or if you have the time and interest, direct you to home-cooked recipes in Dr. Pitcairn’s book, Natural Health for Dogs and Cats.

Vitamins and supplements can be helpful in many situations.   Glucosamine sulfate complexes such as Cosequin or Glycoflex are highly recommended in cases of degenerative joint disease.   Vitamin C is also helpful in most arthritic conditions, and the dose depends on the size of the pet.