WHAT IS ACUPUNCTURE?
Acupuncture is a medical technique developed in China thousands of years ago. It is defined as the insertion of needles into specific points in the body to illicit a healing response. It is used all over the world alone or in conjunction with other modalities, such as herbal medicine or conventional Western medicine. It is an exciting field which is increasingly more accepted and clinical research is repeatedly showing positive results in the treatment of both animals and humans.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Acupuncture was developed during ancient times, but current scientific knowledge is giving us a better idea of how it works! Functional MRI has shown that via stimulation of a precise point in the body with a small needle a specific change result and affects the central nervous system. In conventional medical terms we see that acupuncture stimulates nerves, releases hormones such as endorphins, increases blood circulation and alleviates muscle spasms. From a Chinese medicine perspective we use acupuncture to help the body achieve balance and optimal health based on interconnecting channels called meridians.
WHAT CAN ACUPUNCTURE BE USED FOR?
Acupuncture can be used for a variety of conditions, including functional disease, inflammatory disease and pain. Some examples include:
- Musculoskeletal conditions such intervertebral disc disease, osteoarthritis, soft tissue injuries and neurodegenerative disease.
- Respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and asthma
- Abdominal diseases such as liver disease, inflammatory bowel disease, colitis and vomiting/diarrhea
- Skin disease such as dermatitis
- Cancer and hospice care
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FOR MY PET?
For most animals acupuncture is virtually painless! We strive to make this as enjoyable of a process for your pet as possible. Dr. Jacoby provides a calm, relaxing environment for you and your pet. Each session starts with a brief massage using essential oils and then a point prescription is completed. The session lasts approximately 30 minutes total. Acupuncture has a cumulative effect and we typically start with once weekly sessions for 4 weeks, followed by increasing intervals to the best effective plan for your pet’s condition. We know that 80% of pets have a positive response to acupuncture and this will be evident within 4-6 sessions.
Please call with any questions or to schedule your initial integrative examination with Dr. Jacoby to determine if acupuncture is right for your pet!