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Alternative Offerings at Del Ray
Animal Hospital
Del Ray Animal Hospital and one of our staff
veterinarians, Dr. Anne Mixson, offer two types
of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): acupuncture and Chinese herbal
medicine. A conventional western diagnosis work up is recommended
but not required prior to diagnosis and treatment with either modality.
History of Acupuncture
Acupuncture has been performed on animals
since around 2000 BCE. Veterinary acupuncture was discovers when
lameness resolved in battle horses after they were struck by arrows at
certain places. These places were later determined to be acupuncture
points.
Certain acupuncture points become active
during disease states. These active points along with the history and
examination of the tongue and pulse allow a veterinary acupuncturist to
make a Chinese diagnosis. TCM diagnosis is usually made on the
basis of various classifications methods including Five Element Theory
and Eight Principle. Treatment involves maintaining the balance of the
body's energy and QI (pronounces "CHEE").
The treatment of pain is the most common use
for acupuncture. Acupuncture results in blocking pain both at the spinal
cord and the brain. Arthritis, disc disease, lameness and
paralysis are the most common conditions presented for acupuncture
treatment. TCM has the potential to help most diseases, but
acupuncture should be used with caution in cancer patients.
The Scientific Look at Acupuncture
We do have a scientific explanation for the
pain relief obtained from acupuncture treatment. There are a
number of receptors found in the body that convey various sensations
such as pain, temperature, pressure and touch. These sensations from the
external body are then directed via the central nervous system to the
brain which then releases neurotransmitters and natural pain relieving
hormones. These substances (endorphones and enkephalins) are similar to
morphine. Other effects are seen such as increasing circulation,
relieving muscle spasms, and stimulating nerves.
Appointments
Acupuncture is initially performed
weekly for six weeks. The interval is then gradually increased to a
maintenance program of once every three months. The needles generally
stay in place 15 to 20 minutes. Occasionally, there is a mild reaction
as the needle is inserted. Sometimes electroacupuncture is used to
stimulate the points with electrical activity. Rare side effects include
a temporary worsening of the symptoms or sleeping for 48 hours after the
initial treatment. Most patients will be tired the day of their
treatment.
Please make sure your regular veterinarian
is aware that you are pursuing alternative veterinary care in case there
is any additional testing that is needed prior to your acupuncture
appointment. Chinese Herbs do have a bitter taste so some animals,
especially cats, are not very receptive to receiving herbs. Remember, it
takes time for the body to heal itself. It will probably be at least a
month before you notice the true benefits of TCM.
Traditional Chinese Medicine is a very safe
and effective treatment for many disease states. Most patients learn to
enjoy their acupuncture sessions. Remember to ask your veterinarian
about acupuncture and Chinese herbology as treatment options.
Fees
Initial acupuncture consults are $95.00 and
last 60 minutes. All other acupuncture visits are $75.00 and last 30
minutes. One of the patient's owners needs to be present for the initial
consult. After the initial treatment feel free to drop your pet off for
the day or send a friend with an update to the appointment. You
will need to give a 24 hour cancellation notice to avoid being charged
for an appointment.
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