Why Acupuncture and Herbal Therapy?
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese technique that uses needles to stimulate acupuncture points. There are about 173 acupoints in animals and 361 in humans. The acupoints are located in areas where there is a high density of nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles and lymphatic vessels. Acupuncture helps the body heal itself due to the release of beta-endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters. It was initially used for treating boils. Acupuncture is one of the four branches of Chinese medicine which include: acupuncture, herbal therapy, food therapy, and Tui Na.
Chinese medicine is based on treating imbalances in the body and the diagnostic procedures are very different than western medicine. The diagnosis is achieved based on clinical signs, color of the tongue, pulse, age, and other methods.
Acupuncture is used for treating different conditions like: musculoskeletal problems, neurological disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, and other chronic condition like renal faiure, liver disease, behavioral problems, endocrine disorders, and geriatric weakness. Usually a series of treatments are necessary.
Additionally herbal therapy can be initiated in cases in which the animals are reluctant to the acupuncture or as an additional help. There are several formulas used that contain different herbs and the formals are selected based on the Chinese diagnostic. The herbal therapy take s longer to give a response but usually last longer than the effect of acupuncture. Most animals tolerate receiving the herbs but some might not like the taste of the herbs or can develop diarrhea.
I am a certified in acupuncture and herbal therapy and will soon also be a food therapist. I love combining my knowledge of Western and Eastern medicine to diagnose and treat my patients because it opens up so many different treatment options for the wellness of all of my clients.
Dr. Beloiu, DVM, CVA, CVCH
