Frequently Asked Questions

There are two ways to understand acupuncture, these being the Western or Eastern explanations. There has been an extraordinary amount of scientific research conducted to understand its physiological effects while Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has its own remarkable way of explaining its effects on the body.

It has been found acupuncture points have a close connection to nerves and the vast amount of research shows acupuncture works by stimulating the central nervous system. This stimulation leads to the release of many chemicals and hormones which affect a vast number of biochemical and physiological changes in the body. As a result there is a synergistic spectrum of effects on the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, hormonal and immune systems as well as psychological effects.

See above, some of the effects of acupuncture.

Eastern tradition states that the body is energy as well as matter (organs, muscles, bones, fascia, skin) and illness occurs when blockages to the flow of energy or depletion of energy occur. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) acknowledges a system of pathways called meridians that run throughout the body linking the external areas of the body, such as muscles and skin, with the internal organs. These meridians are said to carry “vital energy” called Qi. Where Western medicine looks for a specific cause and treats that cause by medication or surgery, TCM looks for a pattern of disharmony or imbalance in the body caused by blockages that disrupt the flow of Qi or lead to deficiencies of Qi. TCM then utilises specific acupuncture points to “re-balance” the patient. The conventional approach and TCM both work very well together and both have a role to play in the treatment of an animal. Acupuncture can be particularly helpful in providing relief from conditions where conventional medicine is no longer providing results. It is fantastic for geriatric patients. In many older animals that have acupuncture for arthritis many owners report an increased energy level and wellness to the point some dogs start playing like puppies again and become much more engaged with life!

Once a treatment plan is established there can be anywhere from one to two treatments weekly for three to six weeks for acute conditions. Chronic conditions can respond more slowly and are generally done weekly for six to eight treatments. It may take at least four sessions before there is a real difference for chronic conditions. Treatments generally end once no further improvements are seen and then maintenance sessions are used every one to three months to keep symptoms at bay.

Sessions will usually take 60 to 75 minutes. It is important that a calm and positive environment is created for your companion so that they can relax during treatment and allow needles to be maintained for the correct time period.

Fine gauge needles are inserted but other modalities such as moxa cigars (burnt to release warmth) and laser therapy for more needle-phobic patients may be used.

Acupuncture is relatively painless. There may be a brief moment of sensitivity as the needles penetrate the skin but most animals relax during treatment to the point of falling asleep. The very fine gauge needles are non-cutting and simply part tissues when placed. Acupuncture points are also known to be less reactive to pain. Most animals start to love the “feel good” effect of acupuncture but it usually takes a couple of sessions for animals to feel very relaxed with needle insertion. But, as with some people, some animals may just not take to it at all. In this case laser therapy may be trialled and in time the dog or cat may be more accepting of needles. Also during therapy, moxa may be used. Moxa is a warming herb used to stimultate acupuncture points and animals find this very soothing.

A few things may occur after treatment:

• There may be no obvious changes but your animal seems brighter with possibly more energy.
• The symptoms may worsen over 24-48 hours before improving.
• The symptoms improve directly after treatment.

The more chronic the condition generally the more treatments will be needed to see relief from symptoms.

It is always good to keep a record of changes in your animal at home. It can be interesting to see how far they come and to see changes you never expected i.e. increased energy levels, a more lustrous coat and brighter eyes are common effects. Also when new symptoms develop knowing when and under what conditions they appeared is helpful for adjusting treatment where needed.