Acupuncture

Each point has a specific action and can work synergistically in groups of points to correct imbalances in the mind and body. Acupuncture can help in the treatment of many disorders of the musculoskeletal, neurological, gastrointestinal, reproductive, or dermatological systems. It can also be used to stimulate faster healing and provide pain relief following surgery.

Acupuncture is a type of ancient medicine that has retained its popularity over the centuries. Although once considered purely suitable for humans, an increasing number of vets have discovered the healing properties of this treatment and now recommend it for pets with a wide range of different health concerns. 

HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?

Acupuncture in pets is the same as it is in humans, working in exactly the same way. The process involves ultra-fine needles being placed at pre-determined points of the body with the aim of altering the flow of energy around it. It does this by stimulating the sensory nerves found in the muscles beneath the skin so that they produce natural substances – endorphins, serotonin, and more. These substances all have therapeutic effects, such as relieving pain, reducing inflammation, or calming anxiety. Needles are typically left in place for approximately 20 minutes before being carefully removed. However, exactly where the needles will be placed, how many will be needed, and how many sessions you can expect will depend on the individual needs of your pet.  

In addition, electroacupuncture or aquaacupuncture may be employed to increase the stimulation of the points or provide more profound effects, depending on patient needs. 

BENEFITS OF PET ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture is a popular choice thanks to the many benefits that it can offer patients/pets. 

RELIEVE PAIN WITHOUT MEDICATION

Acupuncture can stimulate your pet’s body to create and release its own pain-relieving chemicals such as endorphins, as well as natural anti-inflammatory substances. These help to reduce swelling, which in turn helps to relieve discomfort. Unsurprisingly, this makes acupuncture particularly beneficial for pets with chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. Pets that are undergoing treatment that would normally be painful may be recommended to have acupuncture sessions to help them to manage this discomfort. 

ACCELERATE HEALING

If your pet has suffered an injury, or if they have a chronic condition, acupuncture can actually help to accelerate the healing process. This is because the placement of the needles can encourage blood flow, which sends oxygen and nutrients around the body to the areas that need them the most. 

OPTIMAL FUNCTIONING OF BODY SYSTEMS

For our pet’s body systems to function optimally, they need to receive an adequate supply of healthy, oxygenated blood. As we know, acupuncture can improve blood flow, which in turn means that all other body systems can also function more effectively. This means that pets can expect to see an improvement in many areas of health, including gastrointestinal problems, respiratory conditions, cardiovascular problems, and more. 

IMPROVED MOBILITY 

Acupuncture has been proven to be very effective at breaking up areas of tension that may be held in your pets’ muscles and joints. Working as a muscle relaxant and combined with its ability to reduce inflammation, acupuncture can reduce stiffness and soreness and improve the mobility of your pet, enabling them to enjoy a better quality of life.  

A SAFE, PAINLESS TREATMENT 

Acupuncture is considered extremely safe, and the needles that are used are so fine that animals rarely notice them being placed. This makes it an ideal treatment for owners that want to ensure that their pet is kept as calm and comfortable as possible when they undergo treatments for their medical issues. 

If you would like more information about acupuncture and, or its benefits, please feel free to call to inquire about a consultation at our office in St. Petersburg, FL at (727) 521-3518.