Acupuncture is an alternative therapy that has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine. It has been used for thousands of years to treat various conditions, including pain and inflammation. Over the past few decades, it has grown in popularity in Western culture and has even been gaining acceptance in veterinary medicine. One of its most common uses is in treating the arthritic pain that often occurs as dogs age. It can be a good option for owners who don't want to use pharmacological treatments, which can have serious side effects.

Acupuncture basics

Acupuncture is a type of treatment that involves inserting tiny needles into specific points in the body to produce a response. These specific points, called acupoints, are found along energy pathways called meridians and correspond to specific organs and systems.

Stimulating an acupoint by inserting a needle creates a specific response in a particular organ or system. The condition you are treating will dictate which points you stimulate, how deep you insert the needle, and how long the needles are left in place. Acupuncture, whether practiced on humans or animals, requires specialized training and licensing.

Treating your dog's pain

Although there is little scientific evidence that acupuncture is effective for treating various conditions in dogs, there is a lot of anecdotal data that supports its use for relieving arthritis pain in dogs. It has been shown that needles placed at certain acupoints can reduce the inflammation that causes arthritic pain, block nerve pathways, and cause the body to release its own endo-opioids for pain relief.

Acupuncture is considered safe, with few side effects. The needles are so tiny most dogs feel little or no discomfort. In fact, some acupoints reduce anxiety and induce relaxation. Some dogs even fall asleep during an acupuncture session.

Enhancing the effectiveness of acupuncture

Some practitioners use electricity to increase the body's response to acupuncture. With electro-acupuncture (EAP), a mild electric current is passed through the needles. EAP is not painful for your dog. It creates a gentle vibration and tingling sensation that increases the stimulation of the acupoint. A typical session will last from 10 to 20 minutes.

If your dog is having trouble walking or exhibits signs of pain when rising from their bed, you might want to ask your veterinarian about acupuncture. With or without electricity, it can help treat arthritis by decreasing pain and helping with mobility. It may even help you reduce your dog's reliance on traditional drug therapy. If your veterinarian does not perform acupuncture, ask them for a referral to someone who does.

Contact a veterinary clinic like Pittsburgh Spay & Vaccination Clinic to learn more.