What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves inserting small, thin needles into the skin on strategic points (also known as ‘acupuncture points’) over the body. When a needle is inserted, it releases the flow of the body’s vital energy (‘qi’), balancing the flow of ‘qi’ throughout the body systems.
From a western medicine point of view, the needle insertion into these acupuncture points stimulates the nerve pathways releasing neurotransmitters involved in inflammation, pain modulation and blood flow i.e., increasing blood flow to chronic conditions to supply nutrients thus promote healing, or dampening blood flow to acute conditions to reduce swelling.
Because of this restoration of balanced ‘qi’ flowing through the body, or rather, biochemical changes stimulated by acupuncture, it stimulates the body’s natural ability to “heal itself” as a whole being, rather than just targeting a medical symptom – as most pharmaceuticals do.
Why acupuncture?
Acupuncture can be described as a bridge between conservative (medical) treatment and surgical treatment – especially in muscular and skeletal problems. Not all patients are suitable for, or have access to certain drugs long term, and not all patients are suitable candidates for, or have access to surgery. Moreover, not all owners are able to commit to the months of post-op care required with surgery.
At least with acupuncture it provides another option with minimal to no negative reported side effects, while at the same time stimulating the body to achieve better blood flow to areas where it’s needed most – awakening the body’s natural healing ability in a less invasive and holistic approach.
What kind of situations can acupuncture be used for?
It is mainly used for the management of long-term pain and/or inflammation. In small animal general practice, the most common uses for acupuncture include:
- Osteoarthritis management
- Hip dysplasia
- Intervertebral (spinal) disc disease
- Long term management of a previous injury
- Chronic kidney disease.
Other possible but less common uses:
- Chronic dermatitis
- Unresolved unknown causes of gastrointestinal signs (vomiting/diarrhoea)
Dr Nat completed her Certificate in Small Animal Veterinary Acupuncture with the College of Integrative Veterinary Therapies (CIVT CSAVA) in May 2024. She has a particular interest in managing musculoskeletal cases (especially relating to the spine and hips) with acupuncture and remedial massage.
Please contact us if you would like further information about our acupuncture service.
