Acupuncture
Acupuncture can be used to help manage pain as well as part of therapy for many other conditions. The procedure involves the insertion of very thin needles through the animal's skin at strategic points on the body. Most animals tolerate acupuncture well, and all species of animal can be treated.
Typical conditions that may respond to acupuncture:
- Spinal pain such as intervertebral disc disease
- Chronic pain syndromes
- Lumbosacral disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Stress and behavioural conditions
- Gastrointestinal disease
- Respiratory disease
- Epilepsy
- Trigger points
- Rehabilitation from surgery
- Pain relief for animals who do not tolerate pain medication
Electroacupuncture
Electroacupuncture used the same principles and acupuncture points, but a small microcurrent is added to the needle. This provides an increased stimulation and can be particularly effective for weakness or nerve paralysis, for example, nerve injuries after a road traffic accident or after spinal disc disease or surgery.
The current is adjusted to be comfortable for the patient, and generally, a profound endorphin release can be observed, with many animals relaxing and falling asleep for the treatment, they may be sleepy for the rest of the day.
How can I expect my animal to respond to treatment?
Acupuncture is generally well tolerated with few side effects. A course of treatment is usually needed for maximum benefit. Pets respond in different ways; some are much better after treatment for a few days, and then gradually, the effects will diminish, as treatments are repeated, the impact will then be sustained. Some may not show improvement initially and improve with subsequent treatments. A few pets may have increased discomfort or stiffness initially after the first treatment but will then start to improve.
For more information about our acupuncture and electroacupuncture treatments, please call the practice on 01531 632276.
