Acupuncture & Laser Therapy
Acupuncture is the insertion of small needles into strategic locations in the skin which results in a stimulation of specific points in the body. Techniques we use include dry needles, electroacupuncture, and aquapuncture.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment to reduce pain and inflammation, and can also aid with wound healing. It can be used in conjunction with or replace medications.
Some conditions that benefit from acupuncture and laser therapy
Pain associated with joints, back, neck, etc.
Acute and chronic pain
Acute injuries
Wound healing
Osteoarthritis
Intervertebral disc disease
CCL and ligaments injuries
With acupuncture, we are tapping into the body’s own natural ability to heal itself. Through the specific placement of very thin needles, acupuncture stimulates the body’s central nervous system to release chemicals that can promote balance in the body, as well as improve physical and emotional well-being.
We can use a variety of different techniques of acupuncture on our veterinary patients. The first technique, and one that people traditionally think of, is the “dry needle” which is simply the insertion of the needle into the desired treatment point. The needle may be occasionally and gently rotated in place which is not painful. The second technique is called “electroacupuncture”. Electroacupuncture utilizes a device to generate a low electrical current between paired needles. This treatment can enhance the therapeutic results of acupuncture by either increasing the point response or prolonging the effect of the treatment. Lastly, “aquapuncture” or “water acupuncture” is the injection of saline or vitamin B12 into an acupuncture point. The liquid stimulates the point for a prolonged time providing a longer-lasting treatment.
Laser therapy is utilized with a lot of our acupuncture patients to enhance the treatment of pain or skin conditions. Like acupuncture, laser therapy also taps into the body’s own ability to heal. Laser therapy causes dilation of blood vessels which increases blood flow to the area, bringing in oxygen and cells needed for the healing process. The treatment also decreases muscle inflammation and causes an endorphin release which results in feeling better and faster healing of damaged tissues.
In our veterinary patients, we most commonly use acupuncture and laser therapy as adjunct treatments for pain, wounds, and neurological conditions but these modalities have a wide range of applications. Acupuncture treatments are very safe when done properly. Many initial treatment plans recommend 2 sessions per week for a few weeks or until improvement is seen and then the frequency of sessions can start to decrease. Appointments are scheduled for an hour with the treatment itself taking 15-30 minutes, depending on the patient.
Why choose acupuncture and laser therapy?
Muscle weakness
Allergies
Gastritis or inflammation of the stomach
Nausea
Decreased appetite
Incontinence