Acupuncture is a complementary modality that we may combine with traditional medicine to control pain and achieve the desired outcome from care.

What is acupuncture?

Many people have heard of this ancient form of Chinese medicine, in which health conditions are treated by unlocking the body’s natural flow of energy. The idea behind acupuncture is that the body knows how to heal; it just needs a little help sometimes.

Acupuncture addresses disease and pain by stimulating predetermined points throughout the body. We may stimulate just one, or several at a time. When these points are treated with tiny needles, about the size of a single strand of hair, a variety of changes may be created at those points, or along the pathway of energy stemming from them.

Points that are typically treated with acupuncture are mast cells, lymphatic vessels, blood vessels, and dense nerve endings. Because of the numerous energetic structures, these points are capable of communicating with various other areas of the body. This communication passes through specific meridians of energy. Chinese practitioners determined long ago that cells can communicate both electrically and chemically. Acupuncture works in concert with these methods of communication to release neurotransmitters such as serotonin and beta-endorphins. Using specific techniques, our highly-trained acupuncturist can focus on any part of the body to achieve a positive response.

Acupuncture at Petsadena is typically employed for pain management. However, this modality has also been successfully used in conditions such as:

  • Neurological disorders such as seizures
  • Disc disease
  • Degenerative joint disease
  • Arthritis
  • Skin diseases
  • Gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhea
  • Incontinence
  • Behavioral issues

Because the two share the same goal, western medicine and acupuncture are often combined to treat pain and disease, and promote a higher quality of life for our pets. We seek the best outcome for each of our patients, and approach each case with a clear understanding of how multiple therapies may affect the condition at hand.

Conventional medical therapies may quickly restore comfort, but might have undesirable side effects. Acupuncture may be an ideal adjunct treatment to restore optimal well-being during or after medical treatment or surgery.

Dr. Sagastume and her team want the best for each of our patients; and we know you want the best for your pet. To learn more about acupuncture services, contact us at (626) 441-1137.