What is Medical Acupuncture

What is Medical Acupuncture?

Veterinary acupuncture is a holistic therapeutic practice aimed at promoting healing and addressing various health conditions in animals. This technique involves the precise insertion of thin needles into specific points on an animal's body by skilled practitioners. Through this process, nerve endings are stimulated, blood flow is improved, and the body's natural healing processes are enhanced. It serves as a non-invasive and complementary approach to veterinary care, seamlessly integrating with conventional veterinary medicine.

By targeting specific acupuncture points, veterinarians can effectively tackle a spectrum of issues in animals, spanning from musculoskeletal problems to neurological disorders and even behavioral issues. Veterinary acupuncture offers pet owners an additional option for managing their animals' health and well-being.

Similarly, medical acupuncture is a therapeutic method that involves the insertion of very thin, sterile needles into strategic locations on the patient’s body. These points are selected for their ability to activate nearby nerves, prompting the release of various chemicals that influence the nervous system, blood vessels, and muscles.

One of the primary benefits of this stimulation is the release of hormones like endorphins, which act as natural painkillers and aid in reducing pain, inflammation, and promoting overall healing. Additionally, acupuncture targets the fascia, the connective tissue enveloping muscles, relieving tightness and enhancing flexibility.

Electroacupuncture, an advanced variant, amplifies nerve stimulation by introducing a mild electric current between needles via tiny clips. This technique can be particularly effective for specific conditions, providing a more robust stimulus to the affected area.

Medical acupuncture is widely employed across clinical settings to address various conditions, including chronic pain, arthritis, and digestive disorders. By blending traditional practices with modern medical knowledge, practitioners offer a holistic approach to health and wellness that complements conventional treatments.

What to expect?

Your initial appointment with Dr. Rachelson begins with a comprehensive medical assessment and physical examination. Collaborating closely with your primary care veterinarian, Dr. Rachelson meticulously reviews medical records, lab results, radiographs, and current medical therapies to formulate a tailored treatment plan.

Despite the initial apprehension about needle insertion, most patients surprisingly find acupuncture sessions relaxing and even enjoyable. Depending on the specific conditions being addressed and any additional modalities incorporated, each session typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes, with needles left in place for durations ranging from 10 to 30 minutes as tolerated.

The therapeutic effects of acupuncture are cumulative, underscoring the importance of repeated sessions. However, the ultimate goal is to achieve optimal improvement and sustain it with the fewest treatments necessary. While some patients may exhibit noticeable improvement within the first 24 to 48 hours following treatment, others may require more time to respond fully.

Although acupuncture generally boasts few side effects, some dogs may experience mild soreness or stiffness following a session. Dr. Rachelson thoroughly discusses potential side effects during your initial visit and addresses any questions or concerns you may have.

Conditions commonly treated by medical acupuncture include but are not limited to: 

Musculoskeletal/skeletal

• Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL/ACL) tear

• Patellar luxation

• Muscle strain (e.g. iliopsoas)

• Tendinopathy/tendinitis (e.g. biceps or supraspinatus

• Hip and elbow dysplasia

• Congenital birth defects 

Post-Operative Recovery

• TPLO/TTA or extracapsular (excap) surgery for CCL injury

• FHO or total hip replacement

• Fracture repair/stabilization

• Spinal surgery such as hemilaminectomy or ventral slot

• Limb amputation

• Post-operative pain control 

Neurologic Disease

• Paresis or paralysis

• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)

• Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE) or “stroke”

• Degenerative myelopathy (DM)

• Wobblers syndrome

• Seizures

• Viral disease ( e.g Distemper) 

Geriatric Care and Pain Management

• Osteoarthritis (OA) / Degenerative joint disease (DJD)

• Back or neck pain from chronic disk disease or tight muscles

• Weakness or lack of energy brought on by old age

• Lameness and pain associated with arthritis

Immune-mediated diseases

Ailments associated with cancer, or side effects of medications

Digestive issues

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Constipation

Skin issues

• Infections

• Itching/Allergies

• Lick granulomas 

Urinary tract and Renal (kidney) disease

• Inappropriate urination

Respiratory problems

• Asthma

• Bronchitis