Acupuncture
Many illnesses and conditions in animals (as in people) can respond well to acupuncture. The insertion of these very fine needles in appropriate positions on the body has effects in several ways:
- Stimulation of the nervous system can result in release of endorphins and other pain - relieving agents
- Blocks pain pathways
- Stimulates nerve and blood vessel growth to speed healing.
Affects internal organ function by stimulating the autonomic nervous system
We are now running acupuncture clinics at most of the surgeries. These consultations will involve a detailed examination of your animal’s requirements at the first treatment, and follow up treatments (usually 30 minute sessions weekly) as and when required.
Please do enquire about how acupuncture could benefit your pet (of any species!) and we will arrange your first appointment.
WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture is the use of fine needles inserted in the skin and briefly left in position, to stimulate nerves in skin and muscle. Acupuncture treatment can relieve symptoms of pain and accelerate healing, both of wounds and pathological conditions. Typically, treatment is once weekly for 3 or 4 sessions, lasting about 15 -20 minutes.
HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
The stimulation of the acupuncture needles produces a variety of effects. It increases the body’s release of natural Painkillers - endorphins and serotonin - In the pain pathways of both the brain and spinal cord, which modifies the way pain signals are received. But acupuncture does much more than reduce pain; research shows that acupuncture can affect most of the body systems-the nervous system, muscle tone, circulation, hormone outputs, antibody production and allergic responses, as well as respiratory, digestive, urinary and reproductive systems. Patients also can respond with a noticeably improved sense of well-being after treatment-they are brighter, more playful and alert.
WHAT CAN ACUPUNCTURE BE USED FOR?
Here are some of the ways in which acupuncture can be effective; Pain relief - for a range of painful conditions, both acute and chronic, eg. arthritis, musculoskeletal pain, joint problems, laminitis and gut pain. Functional bowel or bladder problems - urinary or faecal incontinence, chronic constipation. Skin conditions - itchiness, lick granulomas, rashes, ulcers.
HOW WILL MY ANIMAL REACT TO ACUPUNCTURE?
Any species of animal can be suitable for acupuncture, and most react well to needling, feeling nothing or only a slight sensation on insertion of the needles. Some experience a slight sedative effect; your dog, cat or horse can move about during treatment and while the needles are in place. Improvement in the condition may be noticed after the first session (very occasionally, it can be worse but will then go on to improve), but the effects of needling are cumulative and lasting, so 3 or 4 sessions are generally advisable.
THE HISTORY OF ACUPUNCTURE.
Insertion of needles or sharp Implements into the body has been used for at least 5 millennia. Originally used in India, it was developed in the Far East and introduced to Europe in the 17th century. Western Veterinary Medical Acupuncture involves the use of the therapy following orthodox clinical diagnosis, with points selected on neurophysiologic principles, and much research and development has taken place in the last 20 years. The distinction between complementary medicine and conventional medicine is becoming blurred as acupuncture is accepted in both human and veterinary medicine, as a valuable addition to the clinician’s choice of treatment.
ACUPUNCTURE AT ALNORTHUMBRIA VETERINARY GROUP;
Your animal will be examined and diagnosed, and acupuncture will be either advised or started at the same consultation or visit, often with simultaneous medical treatment. Alternatively, if you think your animal might benefit from the addition of acupuncture to its treatment regime, or would like to try acupuncture on its own, please make an appointment with: Deborah Bearder, BA, Vet MB,MRCVS, A member of the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists. Alnwick Surgery 01665 602516 (Belvedere) Amble Surgery 01665 713111 Wooler Surgery 01668 281323
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