What is Acupuncture?

Definition of health

Health can be defined as the balance in an individual's body as well as the balance between body and mind and between the individual and their environment.

History and scientific evidence

Acupuncture has been practiced in both animals and humans for thousands of years in China. The earliest veterinary acupuncture book is believed to have been written between 659 and 621 B.C.E.

Modern research shows that acupoints are located in the areas where there is a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles, and lymphatic vessels. Most acupoints are motor points. A great number of studies indicate that the stimulation of acupoints induces the release of beta-endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters.

The US National Institutes of Health's National Library of Medicine (www.pubmed.gov) has over 25 thousand research papers regarding acupuncture.

Is acupuncture safe and how soon can we expect results?

Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner.

Some results can be seen immediately but others will require several treatments. Generally a minimum of 3-5 treatments 1-2 weeks apart for chronic conditions are needed before one can expect notable improvement. Treatment can be done daily, weekly or monthly depending on the severity and chronicity of the condition.

Each session may take 20 to 45 minutes for the acupuncture itself but the entire house call visit typically takes 1-2 hours.

Does acupuncture hurt?

Rarely does it hurt. Needles are very thin and most patients are comfortable with acupuncture therapy. Due to the relaxation effect, some animals will fall asleep during acupuncture treatments. However, some patients are not suitable for needling due to their temperament and constitution. In these cases we can use herbal and food therapy only or try laser acupuncture and cold laser therapy for certain conditions.