NHAH Introduces Integrative Medicine

Dr. Abby Regner and Dr. Alex Mora, both new associate veterinarians at New Hartford Animal Hospital, attend the Chi Institute in Florida. They are pursuing certification to practice companion animal and equine veterinary acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine. Dr. Regner will complete her course work at the end of July. Dr. Mora will complete his course work later this year. Both have a special interest in integrative medicine. They will work with our clients, combining western and eastern veterinary medicine, to offer a holistic approach to health management. Dr. Regner graduated from Cornell University and will join NHAH in June 2012. Dr. Mora graduated from Ross School of Veterinary Medicine and joined NHAH in May of 2012.

Q: What is acupuncture?
Acupunture may be defined as the stimulation of a specific point on the body with with a specific method, resulting in a therapeutic homeostatic effect.  The specific point on the body is called “Shu-xu” or  accupuncture point (acupoint). 

 Q: How does acupuncture work?
According to ancient Chinese medical philosophy, disease is the result of an imbalance of energy in the body. Acupuncture is believed to balance this energy and, thereby, assist the body to heal disease. In Western terms, acupuncture can assist the body to heal itself by affecting certain physiological changes. For example, acupuncture can stimulate nerves, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle spasm, and cause the release of hormones like endorphins and cortisol.

Q: When is acupuncture indicated?
Acupuncture is indicated mainly for functional problems such as those that involve pain, non-infectious inflammation (such as allergies), and paralysis. For small animals, the following are some of the general conditions which may be treated with acupuncture:

·    Musculoskeletal problems, such as arthritis or vertebral disc pathology
·    Skin problems, such as lick granuloma
·    Respiratory problems, such as feline asthma
·    Gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea
·    Selected reproductive problems

Q: How should I choose an acupuncturist for my animals?
There are two important criteria you should look for in a veterinary acupuncturist:

·    Your veterinary acupuncturist must be a licensed veterinarian.

·    Your veterinary acupuncturist should have formal training in the practice of acupuncture for animals.
Q: How safe is acupuncture therapy?
Acupuncture is a very safe medical procedure when administered by a qualified practitioner. 
Very few side effects have been found in clinical cases.

Q: How many treatments are needed?

It depends upon the nature, severity and duration of diseases.  A single treatment may be enough for acute conditions.  A series of 3 to 10 treatments can resolve many chronic problems.  Some degenerative conditions may need monthly treatments over time.

Q: Does acupuncture hurt?

For small animals, the insertion of acupuncture needles is virtually painless. Once the needles are in place, there should be no pain. Most animals become very relaxed and may even become sleepy. Nevertheless, acupuncture treatment may cause some sensation, presumed to be those such as tingles, cramps, or numbness which can occur in humans and which may be uncomfortable to some animals.

Q: What physiological effects are induced by Acupuncture?

Numerous studies show that acupuncture stimulation induces these physiological effects:
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• Pain relief
• Regulation of gastrointestinal motility
• Anti-inflammatory effect
• Immuno-regulation
• Hormone and reproductive regulation
• Anti-febrile, effect; microcirculation promotion

Q: Why is Acupuncture frequently combines with herbs?
Sometimes the application of Chinese Herbal Medicine is chosen by the knowledgeable veterinarian as a support for the acupuncture, or on occasion, in lieu of it.  Herbs are frequently used in situations that have not responded to traditional western veterinary medical practices.