Acupuncture: The comprehensive healing method for chronic pain

The millennia-old practice of acupuncture has continually developed and is now widely used in both human and veterinary medicine. Acupuncture for animals is a branch of naturopathy . This article highlights how acupuncture is effective in treating chronic pain and why it should be used in combination with modern therapies.

The historical significance of acupuncture

For over 2000 years, acupuncture has been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCVM) to restore the balance of Qi, the life energy. When Qi is blocked, it often manifests as pain. Through the targeted insertion of needles, these blockages can be released, allowing Qi to flow freely again.

Scientific view of acupuncture

Acupuncture affects the body's homeostasis on several levels:

Central effects

• Activation of the body's own pain modulation system.
• Release of serotonin, endogenous opioids and other neurotransmitters that alter the perception of pain.
• Influencing neuroplasticity, especially in chronic pain.

Local effects

Acupuncture points are highly innervated regions that are rich with a variety of body structures. Stimulation of these points leads to:

• Neuromodulation.
• Activation of the coagulation cascade.
• Movement of collagen and elastin fibers, which have far-reaching effects on the body.

Fascia and acupuncture in animals

Direct stimulation of the cutaneous fascia leads to a chain of cellular and mechanical reactions in the connective tissue. The fascia plays a crucial role in transmitting the effects of acupuncture to distant areas of the body.

Acupuncture for animals

The TCVM looks at the body as a whole and aims to correct imbalances in various organs. While acupuncture alone is effective in many cases, modern diagnostic and therapeutic methods should not be ignored. A combined approach makes it possible to achieve the best possible results.

When is acupuncture the right choice?

It is important to emphasize that acupuncture should not be used as a replacement, but rather as a complement to conventional medicine. Patients with chronic pain may benefit from regular acupuncture sessions, although the number of sessions required varies by individual.

Diagram: Acupuncture at a glance

The deep effect of acupuncture in pain therapy

Beginnings and origins of acupuncture

Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese treatment method, has its roots in a medical culture that is thousands of years old. As a holistic approach to healing, it has been practiced for over 2,000 years. Although this method has long been viewed with skepticism in the Western world, more and more professionals are recognizing its potential benefits.

Basics of acupuncture therapy

The role of Qi

At the heart of acupuncture is the concept of Qi – a type of life energy that flows through the body. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), pain and discomfort are often the result of blocked or unbalanced Qi flow. Acupuncture aims to dissolve these blockages and restore balance.

Scientific perspective

Although the concept of Qi is considered metaphysical by some, there are scientific explanations for how acupuncture works. Studies have shown that inserting needles into specific points on the body can trigger various physiological processes. This may include modulating the central nervous system, stimulating endorphins, or improving blood flow.

Acupuncture in animals and chronic pain

Chronic pain is often complex and can significantly impact daily life. This is where acupuncture comes into play:

Central and local impact

Acupuncture points are often regions with high nerve density and blood circulation. Needle stimulation can cause not only a local reaction, but also profound changes in the central nervous system. This dual effect makes acupuncture a powerful tool in pain therapy.

Combination with conventional medicine

Although acupuncture alone can deliver impressive results, practice shows that a combination with conventional medical approaches often brings the greatest benefit. This allows for holistic treatment that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying causes.

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Practical application and case studies of acupuncture in animals

Acupuncture is used successfully not only on people, but also on animals. It can help with a variety of ailments and improve the well-being of animals.

Case Study 1: Arthritis in a Dog

Bello, a 10-year-old Labrador, is showing signs of arthritis in his hind legs. He has difficulty getting up and shows less interest in his daily walks. His veterinarian recommends acupuncture treatment as a complementary therapy to his medications.

After several sessions stimulating specific points on the hind legs and back, Bello shows significant improvements. He moves more easily and seems to be in less pain overall.

Case study 2: Digestive problems in a cat

Mimi, a 7-year-old domestic cat, suffers from recurring digestive problems. Her owner decides to try acupuncture as part of the treatment plan.

The animal acupuncturist places needles at points related to digestive function. After a few treatments, Mimi's digestion normalizes and she shows a general improvement in well-being.

Case study 3: Back problems in a horse

Luna, a 12-year-old dressage horse, is showing signs of stiffness and discomfort while riding. The vet diagnoses mild back problems and recommends acupuncture in addition to physiotherapy.

An acupuncturist who specializes in horses treats Luna, focusing on acupuncture points along the spine. After several treatments, Luna visibly moves more freely and shows more relaxation and flexibility while riding.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about acupuncture for animals

What does acupuncture do for dogs?

Acupuncture for dogs is an alternative or complementary form of therapy that is derived from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is based on the concept of energy channels or meridians that flow through the body. By inserting fine needles into specific points, an attempt is made to regulate the flow of energy (Qi) and thus improve the dog's health and well-being. Here are some of the main effects and uses of acupuncture in dogs:

1. Pain relief : Acupuncture can stimulate the release of endorphins and other pain-relieving substances. This can be helpful in treating arthritis, back pain, or other painful conditions.
2. Anti-inflammatory : For certain conditions, particularly inflammation, acupuncture can help relieve symptoms and speed healing.
3. Neurological disorders : Acupuncture can help treat certain neurological disorders, including paralysis and certain nerve disorders.
4. Hormonal balance : Therapy can help restore hormonal balance in the body, which can be particularly useful for thyroid or adrenal gland disorders.
5. Boosting the immune system : There is evidence that acupuncture can modulate and strengthen the function of the immune system, which helps the dog defend itself against disease.
6. Promoting Blood Circulation : Stimulating specific acupuncture points can improve blood flow to specific areas of the body, promoting healing.
7. Treating Digestive Disorders : Acupuncture can help with a variety of digestive problems, including diarrhea, constipation, or vomiting.
8. Stress and Anxiety : For some dogs, acupuncture can have a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety.
9. Side effects of medications : In some cases, acupuncture can help minimize or control the side effects of medications.
10. Allergies and skin problems : For some dogs, acupuncture can be effective in treating allergies, eczema, and other skin problems.

It is important to emphasize that although many dogs benefit from acupuncture, this therapy should not always be seen as a replacement for traditional veterinary treatment. It is often most effective when used in combination with other treatment methods. Before starting acupuncture therapy, an accurate diagnosis should always be made by a veterinarian.

Summary of acupuncture for animals:

Animal acupuncture is an ancient practice that has its roots in traditional Chinese medicine. In recent decades, the use of acupuncture in animals gained popularity worldwide, with more and more veterinarians using this method as a supplement to conventional veterinary medicine.

The main principles of acupuncture in animals are similar to those in humans. They are based on the belief that the body is connected through energy channels called meridians. If these energy flows are disrupted, acupuncture can help restore balance to the animal by inserting needles into specific points.

Acupuncture in animals has been shown to be particularly useful in treating pain, inflammation and various neurological diseases. Although the exact mechanisms are not yet fully understood, many studies show positive results when using acupuncture in animals .

However, there are some challenges with acupuncture in animals . A primary concern is the correct positioning of the needles, as anatomical features can vary depending on the animal species. acupuncture on animals is generally safe as long as it is performed by a trained professional.

Another notable point is that acupuncture in animals is often used as a complementary therapy to traditional treatment approaches. This allows for a holistic view of the animal and can lead to better results.

Despite its ancient roots, acupuncture for animals found a permanent place in modern veterinary medicine. While further research is needed to realize acupuncture in animals

Recommended literature on acupuncture for animals:

• Müller, H. & Schäfer, T. (2017). Acupuncture in modern medicine . Medical publishing house GmbH.
• Wei, L. & Chang, D. (2018). The Bridge Between Tradition and Science: Acupuncture in the 21st Century . Healing Knowledge Publishing House.