Acupuncture is the practise of inserting fine, solid needles into the body for pain relief. Or, in some cases, to help the body deal with other diseases.
How does acupuncture work?
It works via the central nervous system.
The needles block the pain messages and encourage the brain and central nervous system to produce more of the body’s natural painkillers. In the case of non-painful conditions, acupuncture may help to reset the body’s normal functioning.
Would my pet need to be sedated for this treatment?
It is uncommon for animals to need to be sedated. This would only usually happen if their condition was so painful that even the slightest touch causes them pain.
Perhaps surprisingly, cats and rabbits often accept acupuncture treatment very well.
How often would my pet be treated?
The usual course is once a week for four to six weeks. After four weeks we will know whether acupuncture is working for your pet and then, depending on the condition and how they have responded, we will work out a plan that usually involves tailing off the treatment so that the effect is maintained for as long as possible.
Is acupuncture safe?
Acupuncture is very safe, in the right hands. Legally it must be performed by a veterinary surgeon. There have been no official reports of problems in animals, but there have been some reports in humans. Problems can usually be avoided with care and a good knowledge of anatomy. There are a very few cases where we would have to be very cautious about using acupuncture, but your veterinary acupuncturist can advise you of these.
What kinds of conditions are treated with acupuncture?
Pain is the most common indication for acupuncture. Usually this means pain associated with arthritis, but also muscle strains, pain secondary to disc disease and bony changes of the spine. Other kinds of pain may also respond.
Functional conditions such as constipation in cats and irritable bowel type problems in dogs may also respond.
What can I expect during treatment?
After examination, needles will be put into various parts of the body and moved or stimulated a few times. There is not a set “dose” of acupuncture as there is for medication, so your vet will judge how much to do based on your pet’s response both at the time and after the treatment. Your pet may become sleepy and relaxed during the treatment.
And after the treatment?
It is not uncommon for pets to go home and sleep very soundly for a long time. This is a good sign and shows that your pet will probably respond well to acupuncture. But do not worry if they are not sleepy – this does not mean that they will not respond.
Sometimes your pet may seem a little more euphoric than usual; this is also a good sign, but keep them quiet for the rest of the day or they may overdo things.
Otherwise treat your pet normally after acupuncture. Do not change exercise, diet or medication unless it has been advised by your vet.
What about response?
Your pet may show one of three responses to treatment:
- They may seem a little stiffer or more uncomfortable
This just means that the dose was a bit too much, but also shows that they should respond to treatment. After a day or two they will improve again and should be better than before.
It’s important to let the vet know if your pet was stiffer or more uncomfortable after treatment so that they can adjust the treatment next time.
- You may see no response
This is always disappointing but does not mean your pet will not respond; it may just be that they will take a little longer or that their improvement after the first treatment was too brief or small for you to see. It can take up to four treatments for a pet to show a response. Not all animals or humans are acupuncture “responders”, but about 80% will be.
- You may see an improvement
This may occur anytime within three days of the treatment. The symptoms may return before the next treatment, but this is normal. After each subsequent treatment the effects should last for longer, enabling us to increase the time between treatments.
Pricing
Free Taster Session:
For pets with conditions that respond to acupuncture we offer a Free taster session.
For pricing of further sessions see our Price List
How to Book
To book a Free Taster Session or for more information call 01620 822262