Acupuncture

What acupuncture is

Acupuncture is a part of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and has been used for more than 2000 years.

It is based on the idea of a life force flowing through the body, called Qi in Chinese. Meridians – so-called energy pathways – run through the body; the acupuncture points lie along them, and according to this model the flow of energy is influenced and regulated through these points.

How a treatment works

• At the first appointment we take time for a detailed conversation about your animal and its history.
• We then place thin acupuncture needles at selected points on the body.
• Placing the needles takes between 10 seconds and 30 minutes, depending on the animal and the question at hand.
• The needles remain in place for between 5 and 20 minutes, during which the animal can lie or stand quietly.

How often treatments take place

How often and over what period treatment is given depends on the patient's condition. For a simple acute problem, a single treatment is sometimes all that is needed; chronic conditions are treated more frequently. We will discuss together at the appointment what makes sense for your animal.

What acupuncture is used for

In veterinary medicine, acupuncture is used in these areas, among others:

• Acute and chronic pain: for example back and joint pain, pain of the chewing apparatus and teeth
• Disorders of the musculoskeletal system: for example pain of the cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine, slipped disc, tendon and joint disorders, arthrosis
• Neurological disorders: for example nerve pain, epilepsy, stroke, vestibular syndrome
• Respiratory disorders: for example asthma, bronchitis, COPD
• Autonomic disturbances: for example sleep disorders, inner restlessness, libido disorders
• Disorders of the digestive system: for example gastrointestinal upsets, constipation
• Skin conditions: for example eczema, hot spots, poorly healing wounds
• Allergies: for example food allergies, allergic asthma
• After operations: for example as support during the post-operative phase

Whether acupuncture treatment is an option for your animal is something we always clarify in a personal consultation and after an examination. Feel free to give us a call – we will arrange an appointment that leaves enough time for your horse, dog or cat.