Education: West Chester University (undergraduate), University of Pennsylvania (graduate), Chi Institute

Pets: Arwen, Chloe, Girl Tauriel, Legolas (cats), and several chickens

Dr. Amy Hinze attended West Chester University in Pennsylvania for her undergraduate studies, completing a degree in Cell and Molecular Biology. She earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. She attended post-graduate continuing education in dentistry offered at The Animal Dental Training Center in Maryland. Additionally, Dr. Hinze was certified in acupuncture through the Chi Institute of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine in Florida, and recently obtained canine chiropractic certification. She continues studies towards certification in Chinese Veterinary Herbal Therapy and Food Therapy. She is a member of the AAVA, IVAS, AATCVM, VBMA, AVMA, SJVMA, and AAHA. The integration of Eastern and Western medicine has been extremely beneficial to the quality of life for many of her patients.

Acupuncture is the ancient technique of placing very small gauge needles into special points on the body called acupoints. Research has shown that acupoints are located in areas of the body that contain a high density of free nerve endings, blood vessels, and lymphatic vessels (part of the immune system). Studies have shown that stimulation of these points will induce the release of endorphins, cause changes in blood and lymph flow, as well as improve conduction of nerve impulses traveling to the CNS. Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that the placement of the needles will affect the flow of Qi (pronounced “chee”) or life force energy in the body. If there is stagnation or blockage of free flow of Qi within the channels/meridians, the body will be out of balance and pain, as well as a disease state, will result.

Acupuncture is most commonly used to improve pain control in patients suffering from degenerative joint disease or arthritis. Acupuncture can also be used to improve neurological function, regulate the GI tract, stimulate appetite, treat skin conditions, treat inter-vertebral disc disease and aid in the management of behavior disorders.