Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese practice that has gained recognition since the 1970s. In simple terms, it not only alleviates pain but also enhances your pet's overall well-being. While it's effective for acute pain, its primary role is in managing chronic conditions.
It's crucial to combine acupuncture with other treatments for optimal results. Directly needling painful muscles can exacerbate chronic pain. Dan is dedicated to managing chronic pain in pets and is here to discuss how our services can help.
About Chronic Pain
Chronic pain serves no useful purpose; it's often a byproduct of the acute pain system. For instance, if you stub your toe, you immediately react and the pain subsides quickly. In contrast, chronic pain keeps the signal active, leading to constant discomfort and stress. This phenomenon, known as "Wind Up," requires a different approach than acute pain.
Acupuncture and Chronic Pain
Pain signals engage various parts of the brain, particularly the limbic system, which influences how we learn from and cope with pain. Unlike humans, pets cannot reflect on their pain, making chronic pain particularly challenging. This constant suffering can hinder their quality of life.
Acupuncture helps interrupt the chronic pain cycle by reducing signals sent to the brain and releasing endorphins, thus alleviating suffering and promoting a better quality of life.
Chronic Pain in Our Pets
If your pet suffers from arthritis, they experience pain without understanding its cause. Unlike optimistic pets, many perceive this pain as a threat, especially in vital areas such as the back or abdomen. Chronic pain exhausts the nervous system's ability to manage pain signals, making them more sensitive over time. While anti-inflammatory medications can help manage arthritis, addressing the "Wind Up" process takes time and a different approach.
Signs Your Pet Needs More Help
Living with significant pain can drastically reduce your pet's quality of life. Often, signs of pain are mistaken for aging or maturity. Watch for these indicators:
Involuntary reactions to touch or petting.
Changes in behavior, such as reluctance to exercise or interact.
Aggression where there was none before.
If you notice these signs, please contact your vet to discuss potential solutions.
Dan Farmer BVM&S MRCVS
Hi there! I'm Dan Farmer, a qualified veterinarian with a passion for pain management and holistic healing. With 29 years of experience in small animal veterinary care, I have dedicated my career to helping animals in Cheltenham live healthier and happier lives.
I believe in a comprehensive approach to veterinary care, which includes integrating complementary therapies like acupuncture. My interest in pain management led me to explore acupuncture as a natural and effective treatment option for animals in pain. I have witnessed firsthand the positive impact it can have on their well-being.
When I'm not caring for animals, I enjoy spending time with my own furry companions. I share my home in Cheltenham with three delightful cats who bring immense joy to my life. Additionally, I am a passionate musician and love playing the tenor saxophone in my spare time.
I am excited to introduce my new gentle and healing acupuncture service tailored for our beloved dogs. Now, your furry companions can enjoy the benefits of acupuncture right in their own cosy homes, with appointments available on Tuesdays.
