Veterinary medical acupuncture is the insertion of hair-thin needles at specific points in the body to create a physiological response. For the majority of animals, acupuncture is virtually pain-free. By activating the central nervous system, acupuncture releases the body's natural painkillers (such as endorphins), hormones (such as cortisol) and neurotransmitters (such as serotonin), thereby affecting all systems of the body.

The Chinese refer to this as restoring the balance of the vital energy, or Chi. Numerous scientific papers have verified that acupuncture not only relieves pain, but stimulates circulation and the immune system, decreases inflammation, relieves muscle spasms, and induces a feeling of well-being, all with minimal side effects.

At the initial visit to a certified veterinary acupuncturist, the medical history is reviewed and an examination is done to determine the suitability of the pet for acupuncture therapy. The prognosis and likely number of follow-up visits is discussed.

Treatment in the clinic may involve dry needle acupuncture, moxibustion, electro-acupuncture, aqua-puncture, massage, range of motion and stretching. Instruction will be given on at-home therapies such as acupressure, hot or cold packs, massage and stretching. The goal of therapy is always to improve the patient's quality of life by providing the best available veterinary acupuncture and wellness services in a comfortable, caring atmosphere.

Questions? Call us at 303-762-SWIM (7946), contact us, or post a question to our "Ask Dr. Angie" section.