Acupuncture is a key element of traditional Chinese medicine and has been used for thousands of years to treat various conditions in humans as well as animals. Needles are inserted into specific points on the surface of the body to treat illnesses or produce an analgesic effect. It can be used on its own or in combination with Western medicine.
Conditions that can benefit from acupuncture include osteoarthritis, paralysis or other neurologic symptoms, incontinence or skin problems. It can be used as an alternative or adjunctive treatment for pain management in patients who may not tolerate normal doses of conventional medicines (e.g. patients with kidney insufficiency).
For small animals, the insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless. Once the needles are in place, there should be no pain. Most animals become very relaxed and some may even become sleepy. Humans have described feelings such as tingles, cramps, or numbness during acupuncture, which may be uncomfortable for some animals.
Acupuncture will not cure every condition, but can be effective when indicated. If you would like to know if your pet might benefit from acupuncture, please contact us and we can arrange an appointment to discuss in further detail.
