Our animal hospital offers Veterinary Acupuncture Services for your pet with Dr. Doug Gilison. According to Chinese medical theory, life force (ch'i) flows through the body via 14 invisible channels known as meridians, regulating all physical and mental processes. Opposing forces within the body (yin and yang), must be balanced to keep ch'i flowing properly. The meridians run deep within the body's tissues and organs, surfacing at some 360 places identified as acupuncture points. Stimulating these points is said to balance and restore the flow of ch'i.
Stimulation of the points is performed by inserting thin, smooth, solid needles. The depth of insertion, type of stimulation, and duration of treatment vary according to the disease or the condition being treated. Veterinary acupuncturists may use needles alone, needles with electrical stimulation, or stimulation using a specific type of laser. Gold beads, surgical staples, or magnets are sometimes put into acupuncture points to provide permanent stimulation for your pet.
Research studies on veterinary acupuncture are limited, but anecdotal information suggests it may be helpful in the treatment of pain, hip dysplasia, chronic digestive disturbances, lick granuloma, epilepsy, and other miscellaneous conditions in pets. Ask Dr. Gilison if acupuncture would be good for your pet.
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