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ACUPUNCTURE
Dr. Michelle Robinson is certified to do feline acupuncture
What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is the insertion of small, sterile needles into specific points on the body in order to stimulate the central nervous system and cause a desired healing effect. Acupuncture has been used in humans and animals for over 4,000 years and is a good adjunctive therapy to western treatment plans.
How does it work? Nerves integrate every organ and acupuncture stimulates nerves. Acupuncture may decrease the dosage of a patient’s medication that may have unwanted side effects (liver damage, nausea, decreased appetite, iatrogenic Cushing’s, etc.) and helps the body heal itself. Acupuncture increases circulation, causes a release of many neurochemicals (some of which are endorphins, the body’s “natural pain-killers”), relieves muscle spasms, stimulates the body’s defense systems, as well as numerous other beneficial effects.
What conditions respond well to acupuncture?
- Musculoskeletal disorders- arthritis, DJD, hip dysplasia, intervertebral disc disease, post-op orthopedic surgery
- Gastrointestinal disorders- megacolon, IBD (inflammatory bowel disease), chronic/acute diarrhea, chronic constipation, nausea/vomiting, decreased appetite
- Skin disorders- lick granulomas, chronic allergies, decrease wound healing time
- Neurological disorders- seizures, nerve injury/paralysis
- Respiratory disorders- chronic asthma, chronic sinusitis
- Ocular disorders- KCS/dry eye
- Any condition that is decreasing the quality of life for your animal and not responding to traditional western medicine should consider acupuncture.
How often will my animal need acupuncture?
Acupuncture is performed once to twice a week for 4-8 treatments until desirable effects are seen or demonstrated. Treatments are then tapered according to the patient’s response, typically about every two to six months for maintenance. Acupuncture may also be used as needed or once a month for maintenance, relaxation and/or immune stimulating qualities.
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