Q: 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 that may be treated with acupuncture:
- Musculoskeletal problems, such as arthritis or vertebral disc pathology
- Skin problems, such as lick granuloma
- Respiratory problems, such as feline asthma
- Gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea
- Selected reproductive problems
For large animals, acupuncture is commonly used for functional problems. Some of the general conditions where it might be applied are the following:
- Musculoskeletal problems, such as sore backs, hips or
degenerative joint disease (DJD) of the hocks, stifle, fetlocks, coffin, carpus or pastern
- Nervous system problems, such as facial nerve paralysis or wobblers
- Skin problems, such as allergic dermatitis
- Respiratory problems, such as heaves and “Bleeders”
- Gastrointestinal problems, such as non surgical colic or diarrhea
- Selected reproductive disorders
In addition, regular acupuncture treatment can treat minor sports injuries as they occur and help to keep muscles and tendons resistant to injury. World-class professional and amateur athletes often use acupuncture as a routine part of their training. If your animals are involved in any athletic endeavor, such as racing, jumping, or showing, acupuncture can help keep them in top physical condition.
Q: Is acupuncture painful?
For small animals, the insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless. The larger needles necessary for large animals may cause some pain as the needle passes through the skin. In all animals, once the needles are in place, there should be no pain. Most animals become very relaxed and may even become sleepy. Nevertheless, acupuncture treatment may cause some sensation, such as tingles, cramps, or numbness which can occur in humans and which may be uncomfortable to some animals.
Q: 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. |
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Q: 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 veterinary acupuncturist. 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 require several or several 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 treatments. Once a maximum positive response is achieved (usually after 4-8 treatments), treatments are tapered off so that the greatest amount of symptom free time elapses between them. Many animals with chronic conditions can taper off to 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.
Q: How should I choose an acupuncturist for my animals?
There are two important criteria you should look for in a veterinary acupuncturist:
Your veterinary acupuncturist must be a licensed veterinarian.
Your veterinary acupuncturist should have formal training in the practice of acupuncture for animals.
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 acupuncture treatment, or whether its problem requires chemical, surgical, or no intervention. In the USA, the American Veterinary Medical Association considers veterinary acupuncture a valid modality within the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery, but extensive educational programs should be undertaken before a veterinarian is considered competent to practice acupuncture.
Q: Are there other holistic therapies you would recommend?
Tui Na
The physical manipulations applied to acupoints and meridians. This is similar to acupressure but involves percussion, stretching and thumb pressure techniques.
Herbal Therapy
Selection of herbal formulas to treat certain conditions defined by TCM theory. The use of specific herbs and plants for medical purposes has been practiced for thousands of years all over the world. Herbs aim at balancing the emotional, mental and physical dimensions of disease.
Food Therapy
“You are what you eat". Dietary recommendations are included in a balanced plan to support and promote the return to a balanced state within the body.
Exercise
Tai Qi, Qi Gong as well other breathing and meditation exercises. This only applies to humans but could be interpreted as incorporating regular walks or other forms of exercise into an animal’s daily routine. |
