Pet Acupuncture: Old World Wisdom, Modern Pain Relief
In traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture was believed to promote the healing process for people and pets by renewing the balance of energy throughout their bodies.
While medicinal knowledge is passed ascribing illness to an imbalance of vital energies in the body, acupuncture remains an effective method of pain relief and rehabilitation. Acupuncture improves blood flow which in turn boosts oxygenation in tissues. This can provide real relief from pain and freedom from soreness with targeted precision.
At Horizon Veterinary Clinic, we feel that we can obtain the best results by using veterinary acupuncture as a supplement to medical therapy to help restore your pet's health and vitality.
The Acupuncture Technique
Acupuncture is practiced by inserting tiny needles into the meridians, precise points in the body where blood vessels and nerves converge. Acupuncture supports the nervous system by promoting circulation while potentially enhancing the body's natural healing abilities.
Common Uses in Dogs and Cats for Acupuncture Treatment
Our vets often recommend the use of traditional Chinese medicine like acupuncture for a number of issues, including:
- Pain Management
Medical treatments such as chemotherapy can cause immense discomfort in your pet. Chemo will often be combined with acupuncture in an effort to relieve some of this discomfort, helping your cat or dog to fight their illness to the best of their ability.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Respiratory Issues
The immune-calming and anti-inflammatory capabilities of acupuncture treatment can improve asthma, allergies, and other conditions.
The Benefits of Pet Acupuncture
Acupuncture for pets has a respectable number of benefits over other treatment options, these include:
- Pets in poor health often benefit from the lack of systemic side effects from acupuncture
- Acupuncture is less wasteful than other modern medical techniques
- Acupuncture helps relax muscles and relieve pain
- Acupuncture improves metabolic waste removal from the body
- Acupuncture promotes an increased blood flow which boosts oxygen in tissues