Acupuncture

Acupuncture may be defined as the insertion of needles into specific points on the body to produce a healing response. Each acupuncture point has specific actions when stimulated. This technique has been used in veterinary practice in China for thousands of years to treat many ailments. The Chinese also use acupuncture as preventative medicine. 

Acupuncture is used all around the world, either along or in conjunction with Western medicine, to treat a wide variety of conditions in every species of animal.

Clinical research has been conducted showing positive results in the treatment of both animals and humans, and the use of acupuncture is increasing. Acupuncture will not cure every condition, but it can work very well when it is indicated.

 

Physical Rehabilitation Therapy

Canine and feline rehabilitation employs the same techniques used in human physical therapy to achieve one or more of the following goals:

  • Speed recovery from injury or surgery
  • Increase mobility and flexibility
  • Improve endurance and agility
  • Decrease pain
  • Promote weight loss
  • Maintain function and prevent further problems
  • Enhance quality of life

What does Pet Rehabilitation entail?
Harley having laser therapyA variety of modalities may be used in your pet’s treatment plan including: massage, stretching, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, therapeutic laser or ultrasound, and home exercise programs.

Not all therapies are best for each pet and a personalized rehabilitation plan will be made for your companion. Pet Rehabilitation may also be combined with acupuncture, nutritional counseling, and pain management protocols to help ensure the best quality of life for your pet.

How do I determine if my pet needs Rehabilitation?
Most pets can benefit from some form of rehabilitation. Some common indications include:

  • Orthopedic
  • Joint surgeries
  • Arthritis
  • Sports injuries
  • Fracture repairs
  • Tendon and ligament repairs (i.e. torn cruciate ligaments)
  • Hip and elbow dysplasia
  • KC and Dr. Erwin doing rehabNeurologic
  • Post-operative spinal or disc surgeries
  • Non-surgical intervertebral disc disease
  • Wobbler’s syndrome
  • Uncoordinated movement (ataxia)
  • Peripheral nerve injuries
  • Degenerative nerve disease
  • General chronic pain
  • Aging (weakness, stiffness, arthritis)
  • Obesity/weight reduction and maintenance
  • Strength and fitness training for canine athletes and working dogs

Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy

Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy (VSMT), also referred to as “animal chiropractic care” in some state practice acts, is an integrative health care therapy option that may help with symptoms associated with dysfunction of the musculoskeletal and neurologic systems.

VSMT is not limited to injured or unhealthy animals; any animal involved in sport may benefit as VSMT aids in supporting musculoskeletal and neurologic function. Gentle range of motion, traction and joint mobilization techniques and specific adjustments of areas of restriction or hypomobility may aid patients in restoring some joint motion, subsequent musculoskeletal movement, and neurologic stimulation.

Let's talk about your pet!