How Acupuncture Works
Acupuncture has been used to successfully treat animals as well as humans for at least 2000 years. It is still the treatment of choice for a quarter of the world’s population for many problems.
Acupuncture is performed using fine sterile needles. These stimulate specific points on the body which affect certain biochemical processes in a beneficial way.
Acting primarily through the central nervous system, acupuncture affects the musculoskeletal system, hormonal and cardiovascular systems, regulating inflammation and releasing natural endorphins.
One of its main indications is for the relief of pain and muscular spasm, such as associated with joint and bone disease or muscle and ligament problems.
Acupuncture is not a cure -all but where indicated, it can produce excellent results and significantly improve quality of life.
It is a safe, gentle ,effective therapy and works well with conventional and complementary therapies.
It is very useful if drugs are having unwanted side effects.
The stimulation of acupuncture points causes release of neuro-transmitters and neuro-hormones inducing release of the body’s ‘natural painkillers’ such as endorphins.
Acupuncture also relieves muscle spasms, causes an increase in circulation, stimulates nerves and stimulates the body’s own defence system.
It also has many other wide-ranging effects depending on the condition and the points being treated.
Is it safe ?
Very safe drug free therapy. It is rare to get side effects. Occasionally an animal’s condition may get temporarily worse [24 to 48 hours] before it improves.
Does it hurt ?
The acupuncture needles are very fine, the patient often doesn’t feel them going in, they may feel a slight sensation. If an area is very sensitive initially other points may be used instead. Once in place often get a feeling of warmth and relaxation and the patient may lie down and even go to sleep.
How long ?
The needles stay in for approximately 20 minutes depending on condition and the patient.
How many treatments?
Depends on the condition.
Initially usually 3 treatments 1 week apart and then depending on response to treatment and whether the condition needs maintenance treatments.
For a chronic condition such as arthritis the time between treatments is gradually increased and often only require a treatment then every 4 to 6 weeks.
For Veterinary Colleagues and Pet Care Professionals
I encourage an integrated approach that complements and supports any treatment plan form the patients own Veterinary Surgeon, and provide them with a written report of any treatment given.
I always only work with consent of the patients own veterinary surgeon so that I can see any relevant history and any contraindications are discovered.
I also coordinate with other health care professionals such as physiotherapists and hydro-therapists.
This collaboration helps to reach the shared goal of a happy, long lived patient.
Home Visits
I understand that some dogs feel more relaxed in their own home so can offer a home visit depending on location. It is quite useful to see a patient in their own home and interacting with their playmates. A small mileage charge may be made if it is outside a 7 mile radius.
Experienced Veterinary Surgeon
I am an experienced Veterinary Surgeon, I qualified from Edinburgh University in 1994.
I am a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, a member of ABVA [Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists], and a member of the Canine Massage Guild.
Vet Consent
Your vet needs to fill in a short form giving consent, relevant history and any contraindications. This is a legal requirement in the UK. [Veterinary surgeons act 1966 and exemptions order 2015].
