Acupuncture is the insertion of thin, flexible needles into predetermined points on the body to produce specific physiological responses by stimulating the nervous, endocrine and immune systems of the body. The points fall along fourteen pathways called meridians that traverse the body and are located in areas that have a rich supply of nerve endings and blood vessels. In response to the needles the body releases hormones and chemicals causing a myriad of effects.
Ailments that respond Well to Acupuncture
Any Condition Causing Pain
Back Pain
Arthritis
Soft Tissue Injuries (muscle/ligament/tendon)
Fractures
Wounds & Scars
Autoimmune Disease & Allergies
Infertility
Skin Diseases
Why Acupuncture
Holistic Healing
Acupuncture can be used with the appropriate western medical therapy to treat medical conditions. It can provide pain control and help the body heal itself by activating the immune system. It is a very safe and effective treatment for enhancing the performance of animal athletes who maybe falling short of their abilities. It is an excellent therapy to combine with chiropractic care to treat pain or it may be the only treatment needed in some cases.
A Safe Alternative
Most animals are very tolerant of acupuncture. For instance, many horses will only require the restraint of a halter and lead and some may appear sedated during treatment. Pets tolerate acupuncture surprisingly well too. Most require minimal restraint initially and eventually require no restraint at all. We usually place the needles while the pet is comfortably resting on a table, couch, lap or the floor. Sensitive pets may need a slow introduction or fewer needles placed at one time.
Benefits of Acupuncture Across Species
For Equine Patients
Acupuncture is useful in treating medical conditions ranging from variety of pain and lameness issues to chronic and autoimmune diseases. Some conditions that respond well to acupuncture are:
- Chronic Laminitis
- Navicular Syndrome
- Chronic Eye Conditions for example Uveitis (Moon Blindness)
- Immune System Conditions such as Heaves, Hives and Bug Sensitivity
For Small Animals
Acupuncture treatment on small animals, such as dogs and cats, the may stimulate the release of endorphins that block pain sensation. Small animals may benefit from acupuncture treatments when the following medical conditions are present:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Allergic Dermatitis and Hot Spots
- Slipped Disk, Disk Protrusion, Intervertebral Disk Disease
- Seizures
- Some Conditions causing Paralysis
- Geriatric Conditions of weakness
- Kidney Disease
- Urinary Incontinence and Retention
- Chronic Bronchitis and Upper Respiratory Infections
- Lack of or excessive appetite
- Diarrhea or Constipation
- Vomiting
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease
- Behavioral Issues such as Anxiety
Dr. Weidenkopf uses her diverse skills to apply this ancient medical form to her patients as a curative or to compliment other medical therapies. Please contact her with questions or to request an appointment.