Acupuncture is an extremely safe and effective means of treating or relieving pain associated with many musculoskeletal problems, including osteoarthritis, intervertebral disc disease, or muscle spasms. Acupuncture may be defined as the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to produce a healing response. The needles are very fine, and most pets experience little sensation when needles are gently inserted into the skin. Many will become very relaxed and even fall asleep during their acupuncture treatment.
When needles are inserted into acupuncture points, it causes a natural release of endorphins and cortisol into the bloodstream, ultimately affecting the blood flow to a certain area of the body, or the way the brain perceives pain. Acupuncture has been used in veterinary practice in China for thousands of years to treat not only musculoskeletal issues, but other metabolic problems such inflammatory bowel disease, renal failure, and respiratory or nervous system disorders.