Acupuncture FAQs

Acupuncture may also be used to assist with relaxation and/or stimulation of the immune system. Any condition that is not responding to traditional Western medicine or decreases your pet’s quality of life may prompt you to consider acupuncture.

What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the medical technique of inserting thin, sterile, stainless steel needles into a patient at precise locations and depths to alter the body’s biochemical and physiological properties through stimulation of the central nervous system.

Used in humans and animals for over 3,000 years, acupuncture is a tremendous adjunctive therapy to Western medical treatment and considered by the American Veterinary Medical Association as a valid modality within the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery.

How does it work?
A healthy body is said to be in “homeostasis” or “in balance.” When illness or injury cause the body to become unbalanced, acupuncture is a viable therapy used to bring the body back into its proper homeostatic state.

Through acupuncture, which stimulates all of the major physiological systems, Doctors are able to treat numerous physical conditions and diseases. This stimulus:

• Increases circulation and enhances musculoskeletal, hormonal, and cardiovascular functions.
• Promotes a release of endorphins – the body’s “natural pain-killing” hormones.
• Stimulates nerves and the body’s defense systems.
• May assist in decreasing the dosage of medications that can cause unwanted side effects (liver damage, nausea, de-creased appetite, etc.) and help the body heal itself.

How often will my animal need acupuncture?
Acupuncture is performed once to twice a week for 4-8 treatments until desirable effects are obtained. Treatments are then tapered according to the patient’s response (maintenance treatments are usually performed every 1-6 months depending on the pet’s condition.)

Is acupuncture painful?
The insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless. Most animals become relaxed and some may even become sleepy.

Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is an extremely safe, “drug-free” therapy yielding no side effects except feelings of well being and relaxation.

Should acupuncture be used instead of traditional Western Medicine?
Acupuncture should be used in conjunction with traditional diagnostics, work-ups, and treatments.