What it is
Acupuncture in veterinary patients is practiced only by a licensed veterinarian specially trained and certified to perform acupuncture. Veterinarians learn over 120 different specific points on the body that can create complex physiologic changes with appropriate use. Thin, sterile needles are placed in these points to influence the body’s inherent system of balance.
What it does:
For patients suffering from chronic pain, acupuncture can block the perception and transmission of chronic pain signals by utilizing inherent pain blocking pathways associated with fight or flight mechanisms. Acupuncture can do this without pain or anxiety for our patients. Human acupuncture patients generally report at most a twinge as a needle is placed, then a subtle tingling sensation.
Acupuncture can dramatically improve nerve conductance and circulation in patients suffering paresis or paralysis associated with nerve injury or intervertebral disk disease. While there are no guarantees for a return to function after these kinds of injuries, recovery rates with electro-acupuncture are found to be near 90% in patients that retain deep pain sensation.
In cancer patients, acupuncture can alleviate symptoms associated with chemotherapy while giving pain relief in patients who have to be taken off of their pain medications while on chemotherapy.
Acupuncture also decreases inflammatory cytokines within the body while increasing beta endorphins, dopamine and serotonin. This creates a more balanced healthy physiologic state for patients. Studies are ongoing that will hopefully illuminate the mechanisms behind the expansive effects of acupuncture on biochemistry.
What it isn’t:
Acupuncture is not a cure all. While it can be applied in the above examples and many other conditions, acupuncture is not often a stand alone therapy. It is most effective when combined with traditional western medications, surgical intervention where appropriate, herbals, and in home environmental adjustments. Acupuncture will not cure chronic, progressive diseases such as osteoarthritis or cancer, but it can help patients to be more comfortable and functional.
What to expect:
An acupuncture visit will generally take 30 minutes to complete and owners are encouraged to remain present for the entire session. Tasty snacks and pets help distract during needle placement which is generally painless. After placement needles are left in place for 10-20 minutes depending on the condition. Some needles may also be connected to an electroacupuncture unit which operates similarly to a TENs unit to amplify the effect at certain points.
If you have a pet experiencing chronic pain or illness, consider utilizing acupuncture. Combined with other modalities, it can help improve and lengthen the lives of our furry companions.