|
|
Veterinary Acupuncture
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture may be defined as the insertion of needles into specific
points on the body to cause a desired healing effect. This technique
has been used in veterinary practice in China for at least 3000 years
to treat many ailments. The Chinese also use acupuncture as preventive
medicine against such problems as founder and colic in horses. Acupuncture
is used all over the world, either by itself or in conjunction with
Western medicine, to treat a wide variety of maladies in every species
of domestic animal and in exotic animals. Modern veterinary acupuncturists
use solid needles, hypodermic needles, bleeding needles, electricity,
heat, massage, and low power lasers to stimulate acupuncture points.
Acupuncture is not a cure-all, but can work very well when it is indicated.
For which conditions is Acupuncture indicated?
Acupuncture is indicated mainly for functional problems such as those
that involve paralysis, noninfectious inflammation (such as allergies),
and pain. For small animals, the following are some of the general conditions
which may be treated with acupuncture:
* Musculoskeletal problems, such as arthritis or spinal disc pathology
* Skin problems, such as lick granuloma
* Respiratory problems, such as feline asthma
* Gastrointestinal problems
* Selected reproductive problems
How does Acupuncture work?
According to ancient Chinese medical philosophy, disease is the result
of an imbalance of energy in the body. Acupuncture is believed to balance
this energy and, thereby, assist the body to heal disease.
In Western terms, acupuncture can assist the body to heal itself by
affecting certain physiological changes. For example, acupuncture can
stimulate nerves, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle spasm,
and cause the release of hormones, such as endorphins (one of the body's
pain control chemicals) and cortisol (a natural steroid).
Is Acupuncture painful?
For small animals, the insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually
painless. Most animals become very relaxed and may even become sleepy.
Nevertheless, acupuncture treatment may cause some sensation, presumed
to be those such as tingles, cramps, or numbness which can occur in
humans and which may be uncomfortable to some animals.
Is Acupuncture safe for animals?
Acupuncture is one of the safest forms of medical treatment for animals
when it is administered by a properly trained veterinarian. Side effects
of acupuncture are rare, but they do exist. An animal's condition may
seem worse for up to 48 hours after a treatment. Other animals may become
sleepy or lethargic for 24 hours after acupuncture. These effects are
an indication that some physiological changes are developing, and they
are most often followed by an improvement in the animal's condition.
How long do Acupuncture treatments last and how often are they
given?
The length and frequency of acupuncture treatments depends on the condition
of the patient and the method of stimulation that is used by the veterinarian.
Stimulation of an individual acupuncture point may take as little as
10 seconds or as much as 30 minutes. A simple acute problem, such as
a sprain, may require only one treatment, whereas more severe or chronic
ailments may need a dozen treatments.
When multiple treatments are necessary, they usually begin intensively
and are tapered to maximum efficiency. Patients often start with 1-3
treatments per week for 4-6 weeks. A positive response is usually seen
after the first to third treatment. Once a maximum positive response
is achieved treatments are usually tapered off. Many animals with chronic
conditions can be maintained with 2-4 treatments per year.
Animals undergoing athletic training can benefit from acupuncture as
often as twice a week to once a month. The frequency depends on the
intensity of the training and the condition of the athlete.
What does Acupuncture treatment cost?
The cost of acupuncture treatment will vary depending on your animal's
specific problem and its response to treatment. Simple cases may be
treated for less than $100, while more complex problems may cost up
to $500.
How should I choose an Acupuncturist for my animals?
There are two important criteria you should look for in a veterinary
acupuncturist:
1 - Your veterinary acupuncturist must be a licensed veterinarian.
2 - Your veterinary acupuncturist should have formal training in the
practice of acupuncture for animals. (For example, the International
Veterinary Acupuncture Society is the only accredited certification
program for veterinary acupuncturists.)
In most countries, states, and provinces, veterinary acupuncture is
considered a surgical procedure that only licensed veterinarians may
legally administer to animals. A veterinarian is in the best position
to diagnose an animal's health problem and then to determine whether
an animal is likely to benefit from an acupuncture treatment, or whether
its problem requires chemical, surgical, or no intervention.
For More Information, please visit: The
International Veterinary Acupuncture Society
Return
to Health Info
|
