Medical Acupuncture

  • When it comes to caring for our beloved pets, we always seek the safest and most effective treatments to ensure their well-being. One such therapy that has gained increasing recognition in veterinary medicine is medical acupuncture. This science-backed approach offers a natural and non-invasive way to alleviate pain, support healing, and enhance overall health. For some pets, the addition of electroacupuncture can further enhance these benefits.

    Veterinary medical acupuncture is a therapeutic technique that involves the strategic placement of thin, sterile needles into specific points on an animal’s body. Unlike Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acupuncture, which is based on energy meridians, medical acupuncture is rooted in modern neuroscience and physiology. It works by stimulating the nervous system, improving circulation, and promoting the release of the body’s natural pain-relieving chemicals.

  • When an acupuncture needle is inserted, it triggers various physiological responses:

    • Nerve Stimulation: Activates sensory nerves, which send signals to the brain and spinal cord to modulate pain perception.

    • Increased Blood Flow: Enhances circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues for faster healing.

    • Muscle Relaxation: Helps reduce muscle tension and improve mobility, especially in pets with arthritis or injuries.

    • Endorphin Release: Stimulates the production of natural pain-relieving chemicals, providing relief without pharmaceuticals.

  • Electroacupuncture is an advanced form of acupuncture that incorporates gentle electrical stimulation to enhance the effects of the needles. After the needles are placed, small electrodes are attached, delivering a mild, pulsating current. This amplifies the therapeutic benefits, providing deeper pain relief and better muscle relaxation.

  • Medical acupuncture is a versatile treatment that can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions in cats and dogs, including:

    • Chronic pain (arthritis, hip dysplasia, back pain)

    • Nerve injuries (intervertebral disc disease, nerve paralysis)

    • Post-surgical recovery (reducing pain and inflammation, improving mobility)

    • Gastrointestinal disorders (nausea, diarrhea, constipation)

    • Urinary and reproductive issues (incontinence, bladder dysfunction)

    • Anxiety and stress-related conditions

    1. Initial Assessment: The veterinarian evaluates your pet’s health, medical history, and condition to determine the best treatment plan.

    2. Needle Placement: Fine needles are gently inserted into targeted points based on your pet’s needs.

    3. Treatment Duration: Sessions usually last between 15-45 minutes, with most pets showing relaxation or improved mobility afterward.

    4. Follow-up Sessions: The number of treatments depends on the condition being addressed; chronic issues may require multiple sessions for optimal results.

  • Yes! When performed by a trained veterinarian, acupuncture is a safe, minimally invasive, and well-tolerated therapy for cats and dogs. Most pets relax during the treatment, and some even fall asleep! Side effects are rare and typically mild, such as temporary soreness or slight fatigue after a session.