Did you know that acupuncture can benefit pets too? If your furry friend is in pain, experiencing arthritis or digestive problems, this traditional Chinese treatment could help. Our veterinary in Vancouver offers more process information.
Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM)
For centuries, acupuncture has been a trusted method in China to relieve pain and cure various illnesses in humans. With the help of trained veterinary professionals in traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM), this therapy is now available for our furry companions as well.
TCVM-trained vets use acupuncture to manage and treat symptoms of illnesses and disorders by carefully inserting ultra-thin needles in specific points of the body where nerves and blood vessels intersect. TCVM also includes other therapies aside from acupuncture, which can be combined with conventional veterinary care to provide a holistic approach to treating medical conditions in animals.
From puppies and kittens to adult and senior pets, animals of all ages can benefit from acupuncture treatments for various health conditions. As a safe and effective therapy, acupuncture may provide relief from pain and discomfort associated with injury and illness.
Acupuncture for Animals - The Process
To start any treatment, it's crucial to determine the root cause of your pet's symptoms. Once the cause is identified, the treatment can be tailored to address the specific issue.
Veterinary acupuncture's goal is to restore balance and promote natural healing in your pet's body by targeting "chi," or the body's energy flow. This is achieved by inserting fine needles at specific points where blood vessels and nerves intersect, which releases endorphins and alleviates chronic or acute pain.
Additionally, acupuncture is believed to enhance serotonin levels, reducing anxiety and promoting positive emotions. Other forms of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) include acupressure, aquapuncture, laser energy, electrostimulation, and other alternative therapies.
Benefits of Veterinary Acupuncture
Veterinary acupuncture and other traditional Chinese treatments are believed to produce a number of health benefits while avoiding the negative side effects that some conventional medications and treatments can bring on. Benefits of veterinary acupuncture for pets include:
- Stimulating the release of endorphins, which are the body's natural pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory substances.
- No negative side effects on internal organs, as can occur with some prescription medications.
- There are no adverse interactions with other medications or supplements, making acupuncture a safe treatment for animals undergoing conventional treatments.
- Acupuncture treatments are believed to create elevated blood flow and increased oxygenation as well as improved metabolic and toxic waste removal.
- Localized pain relief may be achieved at the site of needle insertion due to the relaxation of the muscles in that area.
Animal Conditions That Can be Treated with Acupuncture
Similar to acupuncture for humans, veterinary acupuncture can effectively treat and manage various illnesses and conditions in pets. Inflammation or chronic pain-related health issues are particularly responsive to this treatment. A range of conditions that can be treated with acupuncture includes:
Metabolic Diseases
Many people believe that acupuncture can aid in the management of metabolic disorders in pets by regulating their endocrine system, improving digestion, and reducing oxidative stress. Moreover, acupuncture treatment also strives to enhance blood flow to the tissues, which heightens oxygenation and facilitates the elimination of toxins and metabolic waste.
Arthritis
Pets suffering from arthritis can also find relief from pain and discomfort through acupuncture, which triggers the release of endorphins. In certain instances, acupuncture treatment can even decrease the necessity for traditional pain medications. Additionally, acupuncture serves as an alternative for pets who cannot tolerate conventional pain medications.
Degenerative Joint Disease
Joint disease is common in pets and can seriously impact your pet's quality of life. Acupuncture aims to decrease the pain and tension associated with joint issues, making movement easier for your cat or dog.
Cancer
Acupuncture can be beneficial for pets undergoing cancer treatment as it aids in enhancing blood circulation and boosting the immune system, thereby aiding the body's natural healing process. Additionally, veterinary acupuncture can help alleviate conventional cancer treatments' adverse effects and address the cancer itself.
Trauma
If your pet has experienced an injury or trauma, such as an accident, fall, or fight, inflammation and pain may result. Acupuncture and other traditional Chinese veterinary medicines can be used to treat these symptoms and help your pet recover and return to good health.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.