What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture involves inserting fine needles at certain sites in the body
What can it be used for?
Acupuncture can be used for many things, but the most common use is for pain relief. It is also frequently used to improve wound healing and cause endorphin release.
Why should I consider Acupuncture for my pet?
- Acupuncture has been shown to have really profound effects if used for the right cases
- Risks are very rare and the main risk is minor swelling at the needle insertion site
- There are no adverse effects on other organs in the body like there can be with some drugs
What sort of conditions can Acupuncture help with?
- Neurological diseases such as IVDD and lumbosacral disease
- Orthopaedic diseases such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, luxating patella and angular limb deformities
- Myofascial trigger points – especially common in Working and Sporting dogs and often under diagnosed
- Soft tissue injuries such as strains and sprains
- Any surgery – it will help reduce recovery time by improving wound healing and decreasing pain
- Skin conditions such as acral lick granulomas and non-healing wounds
- Anxiety and low mood due to chronic disease
Is it only dogs that can have acupuncture?
No, Sarah can carry out acupuncture on cats, rabbits and guinea pigs as well.
Can Acupuncture be used instead of medication?
Acupuncture works best once a diagnosis is made and when used alongside conventional medication but it can sometimes mean medication doses can be reduced
How does it work?
- Close to the needle
- Increases blood supply
- Stimulates blood vessel/nerve growth
- Stimulates tissue repair
- Myofascial Trigger Points
- Temporarily prevents the nerves from sending pain signals
- Needling alongside the spine
- Turns off the pain signals coming from painful areas of the body attached to the same nerves
My pet is nervous, would it still be suitable for them?
There are very few patients that will not tolerate treatment, it can just take a couple of sessions for them to allow more than a small number of needles. I will always work with your pet, treating them however they are most comfortable and going at the pace that suits them best.
What can the animal feel?
- A short-lived sharpness as the needle is inserted
- Occasionally – Aching/pressure/swelling/numbness
- Soreness if they have too many needles – to prevent this we start with only a few needles
How often is treatment needed?
- Initially weekly or twice weekly treatments are recommended
- It can take 3-4 sessions to see the full benefit
- The treatments are then spaced out to the frequency needed by the pet (often monthly)
- Sometimes after a course of treatment you may be able to stop
How long are the appointments?
Initial appointments are between 45 and 60 minutes with follow up appointments lasting between 30 and 45 minutes.
How much does it cost?
Initial appointments are £100 – they include a full assessment of your pet’s clinical history, medication and home environment.
Follow up appointments are £80
Sarah Brown Veterinary Acupuncture 