Acupuncture
Peak is now offering acupuncture appointments with internal medicine specialist and certified veterinary acupuncturist, Dr. Ellen Miller! Dr. Miller has been certified in acupuncture after completing the Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians Program. This program provides scientifically based instruction in acupuncture theory and techniques. Through comprehensive study of neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and neuromodulation, Dr. Miller learned how acupuncture may complement more traditional approaches to medical problems.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture is a safe and effective therapy that is used to decrease pain and improve neurologic function. Small needles are inserted into specific points in the body where they stimulate nerve impulses and modulate the pain response.
How does acupuncture work?
Scientific studies looking into the mechanisms by which acupuncture brings about physiological change have shown that acupuncture influences the nerves that arise from the brain and the spinal cord. Further evidence indicates that acupuncture stimulates the release of brain chemicals such as endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain relievers. Research also suggests that acupuncture increases immune system function, improves circulation, decreases muscle tightness, and increases joint flexibility.
What can acupuncture be used to treat?
In the U.S., acupuncture has become an accepted treatment modality for people. It has been reported that an estimated 15 million Americans, or about 6 percent of the population, have tried acupuncture for various ailments that include chronic pain, fatigue, nausea, arthritis, and digestive problems. Veterinarians also perform acupuncture on a variety of animals and see similar benefits.
Conditions that may benefit from acupuncture include:
- spinal cord injury and disk disease
- gastrointestinal motility disorders
- neuropathies
- lameness of musculoskeletal or neurological origin
- immune dysfunction
- arthritis
- pain associated with cancer
- urinary incontinence or voiding abnormalities
Acupuncture also plays a role in rehabilitation following orthopedic or neurologic injuries or surgery. Acupuncture can be performed on dogs and cats. It is recommended that at least three treatments at weekly intervals be done initially and if there is improvement in the condition, then a monthly maintenance schedule can be instituted.