| Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine is an ancient to modern medical form that comprises the use of the bodies innate ability to heal itself by using systems like Acupuncture and Chinese herbal formulas. Dr. Carlson has been performing certified acupuncture on pets since 2005. He receives many referals from Medvet and The Ohio State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital.
Acupuncture has been performed for thousands of years. It began in China and later spread to Japan, India, Europe, and the United States. It has been proven to work by thousands of scientific studies, including some by the NIH. There are several studies as to how acupuncture works. Release of chemicals like beta-endorphin, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters most likely play a large role.
In this medical art, acupoints are stimulated by dry needling, injecting solutions (aquapuncture), injecting air (pneumopuncture), applying herbal heat (moxibustion), or electrical stimulation (electroacupuncture). The points can also be massaged (acupressure) or injected with homotoxicological medications (homeosyniatry). In humans there are 361 points, while in animals there are about 173.
Qi (pronounced CHEE) is type of energy that flows through the body, the acupoints, and 12 paired and 2 unpaired channels, called Meridians. If the flow of Qi is disrupted, then pain or disease can result. The goal of acupuncture is to open any blockages of Qi, remove excesses, improve deficiencies and restore health.
Uses of acupuncture are many, but include: musculoskeletal issues, neurological disorders like nerve paralysis or seizures, gastrointestinal issues, liver or kidney disorders, cancer, and to improve performance.
An acupuncture session usually takes about 40 minutes at a minimum. We take a history, perform a physical or re-evaluation, then place the needles. The needles usually stay in place 15 to 30 minutes. Placement of the needles are not pain free, however it usually feels like a slight pressure once the needles are in place. The pet will often relax and nap. If electroacupuncture is used, the stimulation is usually done for about 20 minutes. Sessions are usually performed every 3 to 10 days initially, for 3 to 10 treatments depending upon the severity of the case. Not every pet will allow acupuncture to be performed upon them. Additionally, it should be performed only by a Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist. Dr. Carlson is certified by the Chi Institute in Reddick, Florida for acupuncture on animals in the United States and China.
Chinese Herbal Medications are complex formulas of substances created to rid the body of excesses or deficiencies. They are gentle, but very potent at the same time. Used incorrectly, they might not work well or could cause conditions to worsen. Each herb is based upon taste, temperature, and the meridians it enters. Some are for short term only, while others are designed for long term use. Re-evaluation during their use is very important. They work very well in combination with acupuncture and other alternative modalities.
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