What's Acupuncture?

Acupuncture may be defined as the stimulation of a specific point on the body with a specific method, resulting in a therapeutic homeostatic effect.  The specific point on the body is called "Shu-xu" or acupuncture point (acupoint). The ancient Chinese people discovered 361acupoints in human beings and 173 acupoints in animals.

Modern research shows that acupoints are located in the areas where there is a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles and lymphatic vessels.  Most acupoints are motor points.  A great number of studies indicate that stimulation of acupoints induce release of beta-endorphin, serotonin and other neurotransmitters.  Therefore, acupuncture for pain relief is well supported by these scientific studies.  As more studies are conducted, the mechanism of this ancient therapy will be better understood.

What's the History of Acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been practiced in both animals and human beings for thousands of years in China.  The earliest veterinary acupuncture book  "Bo  Le  Zhen  Jing"  (Bole's Canon of Veterinary Acupuncture)  is believed to have been written by Dr. Bo  Le in  Qin-mugong period (659 B.C. to 621 B.C.).  Veterinary treatment protocols using acupuncture were well documented in this textbook.  Since then, acupuncture was and is still a part of the mainstream veterinary medical system in China.

How safe is acupuncture therapy?

Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner.  Very few side effects have been found in clinical cases.

How long does each treatment last?

Each session may take 20 to 60 minutes.

How many treatments are needed?

It depends upon the nature, severity and duration of diseases.  A series of 3 to 10 treatments can resolve many chronic problems. Some degenerative conditions may need monthly treatments over time.

Who is qualified to perform veterinary acupuncture?

Only licensed veterinarians are eligible to practice acupuncture in most states in the USA. A western exam and x-rays must be performed before any acupuncture procedure is started.  A certified acupuncture training course is highly recommended before performing veterinary acupuncture.

What physiological effects are induced by Acupuncture?

Numerous studies show that acupuncture stimulation induces these physiological effects:

• Pain
• Regulation of gastrointestinal motility
• Anti-inflammatory effect
• Immuno-regulation
• Hormone and reproductive regulation
• Anti-febrile effect; microcirculation promotion

When is Acupuncture Indicated?

Clinical trials indicate that the acupuncture therapy can be effective in the following conditions:

• Musculoskeletal problems:  muscle   soreness,  back pain,  disc problems,  osteoarthritis,  degenerative joint disease.
• Neurological disorders: diarrhea,  gastric ulcers,  colic,  vomiting,  constipation and impaction.
• Other chronic conditions:  anhidrosis,  heaves, asthma, cough, uveitis, behavioral  problems, cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, infertility, hyperthyroidism, renal failure, geriatric weakness, skin problems.
• Performance enhancement and prevention of disease

Cautions and Contraindications

When Acupuncture is performed, the following conditions are cautioned or contraindicated:

• Fracture
• Pregnancy
• Open Wound
• Infectious Diseases

Why is Acupuncture frequently combined with herbs?

Sometimes the application of Chinese Herbal Medicine is chosen by the knowledgeable veterinarian as a support for the acupuncture, or on occasion, in lieu of it.  Herbs are frequently used in situations that have not responded to traditional western veterinary medical practices.