Acupuncture
What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is the use of needles to stimulate specific points on the body to achieve a desired effect. It has been used for several thousand years in both humans and animals particularly in China but also within other ancient civilisations. When is acupuncture used? Acupuncture can be used to complement Western […] The post Acupuncture appeared first on Dundas Veterinary Group.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the use of needles to stimulate specific points on the body to achieve a desired effect.
It has been used for several thousand years in both humans and animals particularly in China but also within other ancient civilisations.
When is acupuncture used?
Acupuncture can be used to complement Western medicine. The most frequent area in Veterinary Medicine where acupuncture is used is for musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain. This can include osteoarthritis, disc disease, hip dysplasia or traumatic injuries with chronic pain.
It is also used in Traditional Chinese Medicine practice to treat other body systems for example chronic gastrointestinal disease and urinary tract disorders.
How does it work?
Research is still ongoing as to the mechanism of acupuncture. It is widely acknowledged that the needle stimulates the central nervous system through feedback mechanisms which suppress the pain response. In part this is through the release of endorphins but many other neurotransmitters are known to be involved. Involvement of lymphatic channels, blood vessels and the fascial system are also implicated and it is almost certain that a combination of all of these systems are involved.
Will my animal allow acupuncture to be performed?
Most animals cope very well with needle placement and many will visibly relax and even become sleepy during the procedure. For more wary animals only a few points would be used to start with and in some instances digital pressure is applied instead of a needle until the animal becomes less fearful.
Kai relaxed during his acupuncture session
Are there risks involved?
Because acupuncture is a natural therapy and no chemicals are used side effects are rare but can include a brief deterioration of symptoms before an improvement is noted.
Other serious complications such as penetration of a body cavity are incredibly rare. Here at Dundas Veterinary Group we only use a superficial technique and would never place a needle in an area where this is likely to occur.
If you would like further information regarding the above please contact the practice by phone or email: nurses@dundasvetgroup.co.uk FAO Dr. Emma Sharp.
The post Acupuncture appeared first on Dundas Veterinary Group.
