Alternative & Complementary Therapy

Acupuncture

 

Acupuncture is the insertion of small, sterile, stainless steel needles into a patient at precise locations and depths on the body. The insertion of the needles at these points alters the body’s biochemical and physiological properties primarily through the stimulation of the central nervous system. Acupuncture has been utilized in veterinary practice for over 3000 years to treat a variety of animal conditions, and may also be utilized as an adjunct to standard medical/surgical treatments of disease, or as a preventative measure. The American Veterinary Medical Association considers veterinary acupuncture a valid modality within the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery. All animals may benefit from acupuncture.

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Acupuncture is indicated for functional problems that involve pain, non-infectious inflammation (such as arthritis and allergies) and neurological dysfunctions (such as paralysis). These include:

• Musculoskeletal disorders – arthritis, hip dysplasia, ligament and tendon injuries

• Gastrointestinal disorders – diarrhea, constipation, nausea, decreased appetite, inflammatory bowel disease

• Skin disorders – allergies, wound healing, granulomas

• Neurological disorders – seizures, nerve dysfunction/damage, paralysis, back pain, intervertebral disc disease,

• Respiratory disorders – inflammatory airway disease, asthma

• Ocular disorders – keratoconjunctivitis sicca (dry eye)

• Reproductive disorders

• Urinary/renal disorders – feline lower urinary tract disease, kidney disease/failure

• Numerous other disorders have also responded well to treatment with acupuncture including some endocrine (glandular) diseases and behavioral changes like anxiety.

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The length of each treatment and the frequency are often dependent on the individual animal, the disease being treated, and the response to each treatment. Most treatments take a minimum of 20 minutes and may also include electrical stimulation of the points (electroacupuncture), acupuncture (injection of a therapeutic drug at the site of an acupuncture point) or heat treatment (moxibustion). A typical patient is treated weekly for 3-4 weeks and then placed on a less frequent maintenance program (every month to 3 months). Animals with more acute and severe disease (such as intervertebral disc disease) may be seen more frequently at the beginning of treatment.

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K-Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is the use of red and near-infrared light to create therapeutic effects.These effects include improved healing time, pain reduction, increased circulation and decreased swelling. Laser therapy has been widely used in Europe by physical therapists, nurses and doctors as far back as the 1970’s. Now, after FDA clearance in 2002, Laser Therapy is being used extensively in the U.S. This new form of therapy is quick, pain free, drug free and requires no sedation or restraint. It is often very relaxing for your pet and only takes an average of 30 minutes of your time.

Laser therapy has helped many people, including many Major League baseball teams, who utilize the KLaser routinely for pain and inflammation.

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During each painless treatment, laser energy increases circulation, which draws oxygen, water and nutrients into the damaged area. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, function is restored and pain level improved.

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The following conditions may benefit from KLaser:

• Osteoarthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease

• Muscular Strains/Sprains

• Puncture Wounds

• Post-Surgical Discomfort and Wound Healing (we use KLaser routinely for this!)

• Hip Dysplasia

• Chronic Wounds, including Lick Granulomas and Recurrent Ear Infections

• Traumatic Injuries

• “Hot Spots”

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What to expect? There is no sedation used for this procedure. It is generally pleasant and relaxing. You can even stay with your pet if you choose! Improvement is often seen after the very first treatment but most patients require several treatments for the greatest benefit. For most conditions, multiple treatments are indicated. Treatments vary in length, depending on location, but most individual sites require 2 to 8 minutes. Most pets show greater comfort and mobility within 24 hours after treatment. Your doctor will advise a treatment plan that is tailored to your pet’s condition.