Back Pain!

Post date: Jan 13, 2013 7:6:57 PM

Back and Neck Pain in our pets is very common and can be very debilitating.  Intervertebral Disc Disease is one of the most common causes.  Cases range from pain (Grade 1), to poor balance, the inability to walk or even move the legs, and finally the loss all sensation (Grade 5).  On top of all that, it is scary for a pet to experience this.

It is commonly treated with steroids, pain medications and surgery.  Long term use of these medications, especially steroids, can have significant side effects on the body.  Surgery, while effective, is costly and poses its own set of risks.

Electroacupuncture (EA) has been shown to significantly help patients:

• • • Have a quicker recovery.

    • Achieve greater results.

    • Experience fewer relapses.

A gentle electrical current is run through the acupuncture needles during treatment that stimulates the production of endorphins and other natural pain inhibitors, as well as treat the local Qi and Blood Stagnation.  Most patients find it very relaxing and fall asleep. Some studies have even shown EA to be more effective than surgery alone.  79% of the dogs treated with EA alone, and 72% treated with EA and surgery, made a significant recovery (improving from a Grade 4-5 to a Grade 1-2 within 6 months), compared to only 40% of the dogs treated with surgery alone.

Does your pet have neck or back pain?  Did they already have surgery and are still having trouble walking?  Acupuncture can help.

 2/15/2012