All about acupuncture

​

Acupuncture is the stimulation of specific points on the body via the insertion and 

manipulation of very fine, sterile, taper point needles in the superficial tissues of the body. I may stimulate the needles manually from time to time, and for some situations I use a precise technique known as "estim" which uses a gentle non-painful electrical current to evoke certain responses from the nervous system.

Each treatment is tailored to your animal’s unique situation based on a thorough medical history review, careful physical  examination and assessment of the body’s neurological and musculoskeletal systems.

​

My practice builds on the tradition of the ancient Chinese Acupuncturists by incorporating the cutting edge of today’s neuroscience to yield a system of treatment that is as powerful as it is complementary to other therapeutic modalities.   

​

How does it work? 

​

Acupuncture is one of several methods of neuromodulation -  a process where the body is encouraged to “tune up” or “calm down” various elements of the nervous system, thereby influencing the natural balance between “stressors” and “relaxers” that are supposed to exist within in the body.   

​

Acupuncture brings holistic balance to the body via several well documented routes.

1)  Enhanced blood and lymph flow at the local level

2) Relief of myofascial trigger points leading to better mobility and flexibility. 
3) Relief of pain and inflammation and resolution of imbalance between the sympathetic (stress response) and parasympathetic (rest response) nervous systems. 

​

Imbalance creates disease. 

​

Real Life Effects: 

Improved function of nerves 

Relaxation of muscle & fascia   

Better circulation and healing 

Control of pain and inflammation 

Improved mood and quality of life 

​

What things can you treat? 

Here are some common conditions that are frequently benefited by acupuncture: 

Arthritis (including hip dysplasia & cruciate ligament disease) 

Allergies (itchy dogs, ear infections, impacted anal glands, foot/leg licking) 

Behavioral problems (general anxiety, separation anxiety, storm phobias, obsessive/compulsive disorders, etc) 

Voiding dysfunction (constipation, incontinence, diarrhea, night time leaking) 

Post operative/trauma recovery (as part of rehab/physical therapy) 

Chronic pain (from injury, surgery, or other disease process). 

​

How often does my pet need treatment? 

Every case is different! Normally two or three treatments lasting 20-30 minutes are given within the first two-three weeks, then the frequency is tapered to what is appropriate for each case. Depending on the severity of symptoms, length of disease and  health of animal, this may be once per week, once per month, or as needed. 

​

Does acupuncture always help? 

Like any treatment, we expect a few cases to appear miraculous and a few to not respond at all. The majority (about 80%) will get some benefit. 

​

Does acupuncture hurt? 

We strive to maintain a relaxed and enjoyable environment for our patients and clients. We never force treatment on anyone. Because of this, most patients find their treatment enjoyable, or at least tolerable. Some pets even fall asleep during treatment. Except in extreme cases, I do not sedate my patients and encourage clients to stay with their pets during my treatments.    

​

Are there any side effects? 

Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years as a safe and gentle treatment for many diverse health problems. In the hands of a qualified and appropriately trained medical professional, acupuncture is incredibly safe. On occasion, some patient’s symptoms may seem a little worse the day after treatment. Usually within a day or two this effect passes. There are no long term risks to trying acupuncture. 

​

​

​