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Vet’s Corner

Acupuncture is a treatment method which involves inserting
fine, sterile, stainless needles on specific points
called, acupuncture points, to induce a healing affect.
This treatment was invented approximately 3000 years ago,
and recently has been increasingly recognised for its
benefits. Nowadays, acupuncture use is also seen to be
beneficial in veterinary referral centres and the popularity
has been gradually increasing, providing more integrative
care for more patients.

The main purpose of acupuncture is promoting self
healing and restoring homeostasis. Because it
involves multi-systems, it has effects on the endocrine, cardiovascular, immune
and nervous systems.
With each needle insertion, the nervous system is stimulated,
causing neurotransmitter and hormone release, which in turn benefits the
organ functions. For pain reduction, there are three mechanisms involved in the
process.
The first mechanisms, the insertion of the needle releases local endorphins
(natural painkillers) and neuropeptides (increases circulation locally) .

Second mechanism, is the gate control theory,
in which there is an inhibitory action over the
pain pathways.

The third mechanism, via the release of
endogenous opioid neurohormones such as
endorphins and enkephalins.
These processes provide an adequate amount of
pain relief.

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