Acupuncture

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is traditional Chinese medicine based on the philosophy that illness is caused by an imbalance of vital energies in the body. The technique requires the insertion of fine needles into the dog’s body at specified points, called acupuncture points, where nerves and blood vessels converge. The pattern of these sites are “meridians”, which are believed to be energy channels that transmit energy throughout the dog’s body.

Why Needles?

The inserted needles are thought to guide “chi” or vital energy along the meridians. Placed in these identified points, the needles enhance blood circulation, which improves healing ability. Acupuncture also stimulates the nervous system and increases the release of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substances, to reduce a dog’s discomfort.

Select research has demonstrated that the physical interaction between the needle and the nerve fibers in the skin and underlying tissues may exhibit a modulating effect on the nervous system (neuromodulation). This neuromodulation can result in the release of beneficial chemicals from the brain and spinal cord, as well as the tissues surrounding the needle, that encourage blood flow to the area, interrupt pain signaling, and relax trigger points that cause painful spasms.