What is Acupuncture?
Neurofunctional Acupuncture is a modern approach to the traditional Chinese method of acupuncture. In this model, acupuncture needles are inserted at specific points along a nerve path and/or into tight/tender musculature and are then stimulated with the use of gentle electricity at low frequency. This stimulates the nervous system in a way that relieves pain, elevates mood and improves blood flow to help heal peripheral tissues. Traditional acupuncture without the use of stimulation/electricity is also available.
Human Acupuncture
Some conditions that may be helped with acupuncture include:
- Shoulder pain (rotator cuff sprain/strain)
- Sport performance issues/Muscular inhibitions
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Back Pain
- Hip Pain
- Knee Pain
- Tennis Elbow
- Carpal Tunnel
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Sciatica
- Sprains & Strains
- Whiplash
- Chronic Pain
- TMJ / Jaw Pain
- De Quervains Tenosynovitis
- Repetitive Strain injuries
Animal Acupuncture
Animal acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment aimed to alleviate pain, improve nerve function, strengthen weak or inhibited muscles and enhance balance and coordination.
Acupuncture treatments involve placing thin needles at specific anatomical points to stimulate the nervous system, boost blood flow, relieve muscle spasm, and promote pain relief through the release of endorphins and serotonin. This modality is particularly effective for treating senior dogs with neurological impairments, orthopaedic pain and mobility issues associated with aging and arthritis.
Acupuncture for your pet can help:
- Relieve pain (releases endorphins and serotonin)
- Improve nerve function
- Strengthen weak and/or inhibited muscles
- Improve balance and coordination
- Release chronic muscle tension
- Relax chronic trigger points in muscles
Acupuncture FAQs
My dog won’t sit or lay still, can they still get acupuncture?
The majority of dogs tolerate acupuncture very well. For more wiggly or restless dogs, simple strategies such as providing a lick mat or a food-stuffed Kong are often sufficient to encourage calm behaviour, distract them from the needles and allow them to remain comfortably settled throughout their session.
What if my dog will not tolerate the acupuncture needles despite best efforts?
Most often, dogs do not notice when the acupuncture needles are inserted. For patients with increased sensitivity, specially coated needles known as Seirins can be used to enhance comfort compared to traditional stainless steel needles. If needling is still not well tolerated, treatment can be modified to incorporate acupressure, which stimulates the same acupuncture points and can provide comparable therapeutic benefits. Acupressure may be combined with joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and/or laser therapy to support optimal outcomes.
Is Acupuncture safe?
Yes! Acupuncture is an extremely safe modality when done by a trained professional.
Does Acupuncture hurt?
Acupuncture is typically not painful because the needles used are extremely thin. Some points, particularly in the feet, can be more sensitive, but we always work within the dog’s comfort level. We begin with less sensitive areas and carefully gauge the dog’s response before gradually addressing more sensitive points. In cases where there are chronically tight muscles with trigger points, there may be mild tenderness, but we proceed gently and attentively to ensure the dog remains as comfortable as possible.
Are there any side effects of acupuncture for dogs?
The most commonly reported effect following an acupuncture session, in both humans and animals, is a state of relaxation accompanied by mild fatigue. This response is attributed to acupuncture’s modulation of the autonomic nervous system, specifically its stimulation of the parasympathetic branch, which governs rest, recovery, and restorative physiological processes.
Do you need to go to school to be able to perform acupuncture on dogs?
Dr. Taron is dually certified as a Chiropractor and Animal Chiropractor, and provides Acupuncture services for both people and small animals. She has completed over 300 hours of Neurofunctional Acupuncture training at McMaster University, along with an additional 50 hours of specialized Neurofunctional Acupuncture training focused on small animals through the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Centre.