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This is a treatment that was developed in southern China more
than 2,500 years ago. The Chinese discovered that they could stimulate
healing within the body by stimulating certain special points called 'Acupoints',
by using needles.
These points are distributed along lines of energy called
channels or meridians and are associated with specific organs.
Acupoints used by a vet are generally transposed from human
acupuncture and can be found all over your dog or cat's body; they are
rich in nerve and blood vessel supply. It has been shown scientifically that
needling carefully chosen acupoints causes the release of endorphins - which are
morphine-like substances.
Acupuncture treatment aims to restore the balance by
stimulating or depressing particular organs using the appropriate acupuncture
points. For example, infection is a heat pathogen i.e. an excess of heat,
therefore it needs cooling by stimulation of the water elements. This is why the
acupuncture needle is not always inserted in the area where the problem is
located.
The acupuncture points are found at different depths. The
ones near the surface are about the size of a pea and the deeper ones about the
size of a penny. If an acupuncture point is in need of stimulation it is tender
to the touch and an acupuncture needle placed in the correct position penetrates
the tissues easily and without pain. The needles remain in place for about 10
minutes. A point that does not need stimulating, or because of treatment no
longer needs stimulating, often resists the entry of an acupuncture needle.
Finding the tender points can often help the Vet in diagnosis.
When acupuncture needles are used they are much thinner than normal hypodermic
needles, very flexible and are usually made of stainless steel - although gold,
silver or copper can be used depending on whether a stimulating or suppressing
effect is required
This cat is fully conscious - a sensation is
likely to be felt when the needles are inserted but once they are in place, they
are painless.
Stimulation of acupoint sites is being done by inserting very
thin sterile acupuncture needles through the skin to prompt a response.
Needles need to be left in place for 15 - 20 minutes
Gently twisting the needles stimulates them
The frequency of treatment will depend on the diagnosis /
condition of the patient
Acupuncture is not used solely for lameness or joint / back
pain but can be beneficial in respiratory, digestive and urogential
conditions in the cat or dog too.
If you would like more information please make
an appointment to see our vet.
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