What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice used to help heal the body by inserting fine needles into acupuncture points, which are specified areas of the body where blood vessels and nerves meet. Acupuncture helps to enhance blood flow and relaxes the muscles where needles are inserted, resulting in your pet feeling more relaxed overall.
Acupuncture is regularly used to help pets struggling with inflammatory conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or degenerative joint disease. Acupuncture may help to decrease the pain and improve your pet’s ability to move. Traditional medicine is often still recommended to accompany acupuncture to treat the condition itself, while acupuncture is a way to alleviate negative side effects of the condition. Some pet insurance plans will cover acupuncture as an alternative therapy. Look for terms like holistic care or behavioral therapies to see what your pet insurance plan may offer in terms of coverage.
How Acupuncture Works
When needles are placed in acupuncture points, the needles can improve blood circulation and the body’s overall healing ability. Acupuncture may also stimulate the nervous system and increase the release of natural pain fighting, anti-inflammatory agents to decrease your pet’s pain and discomfort. As an alternative option, acupressure may be used for areas that cannot be reached with needles or for pets that are not tolerant of acupuncture.
As an alternative option, acupressure may be used for areas that cannot be reached with needles or for pets that are not tolerant of acupuncture.
Key Takeaways
- Acupuncture is a practice used to relieve inflammation and pain by inserting fine needles into acupuncture points.
- Acupuncture is a popular choice for helping animals suffering from inflammatory conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia.
- Some pet insurance plans offer coverage for holistic care options, like acupuncture.
