Acupuncture involves stimulating the nervous system by penetrating areas of the body where there are a high density of nerve endings, small blood vessels, and lymph vessels -- or acupuncture points.
Stimulating these points causes the body to release endorphins, serotonin and other substances that promote pain relief, healing and balance. Acupuncture has been studied extensively and researched in double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. Research has shown that acupuncture has physiologic effects on the body that help with pain relief, reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, regulate hormones, and promote circulation.
Different methods can be used to stimulate acupuncture points including inserting tiny needles, injectable liquids like vitamins, and electrical stimulation. Many people are surprised by how relaxing acupuncture can be for their animals. Treatments tend to be cumulative, so the first treatment may last 2-4 days, the next treatment may last 7 days, and so on, until we may only need to see a patient monthly or even less.