Veterinary Acupuncture
Veterinary Acupuncture
Veterinary acupuncture is a safe, gentle, and evidence-informed treatment that works with your pet's nervous system to reduce pain, improve mobility, support healing, and restore normal function. Whether your companion is recovering from an injury, living with arthritis, or simply slowing down with age, acupuncture can help improve comfort and quality of life.
At East Coast Veterinary Acupuncture, every treatment plan is individualized to your pet's specific diagnosis, lifestyle, and goals.
What conditions can acupuncture help treat?
Acupuncture is commonly used to manage both acute and chronic conditions, including:
Arthritis and joint pain
Hip dysplasia
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
Cruciate ligament injuries
Neurologic disorders
Muscle strains and soft tissue injuries
Chronic pain
Mobility issues in senior pets
Recovery after orthopedic surgery
Gastrointestinal disorders
Urinary and fecal incontinence
Supportive care for cancer patients
Many animals receive acupuncture not only to treat disease but also to maintain mobility, improve comfort, and support healthy aging.
Acupuncture works exceptionally well alongside conventional veterinary medicine.
As a licensed veterinarian and Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Dr. Michaella combines modern diagnostics with Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine to provide comprehensive, individualized care. Acupuncture is never intended to replace necessary medical treatment, but it is another powerful tool that can help pets heal, feel better, and enjoy a higher quality of life.
Acupuncture involves placing very fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body that communicate with the nervous system, muscles, connective tissues, and internal organs. Modern research shows that acupoints are located in the areas where there is a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles, and lymphatic vessels.
Modern research has shown that acupuncture stimulates the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals (endogenous opioids like beta-endorphins, serotonin), improves circulation, reduces inflammation, relaxes muscle tension, and encourages the body's own healing processes. It also helps regulate communication between different body systems, allowing the body to function more efficiently.
While acupuncture has its roots in Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine, it is also supported by a growing body of scientific research and is commonly integrated with conventional veterinary care.
Please ask me to provide evidence-based studies on acupuncture to treat your animal's specific issues.
Most pets tolerate acupuncture remarkably well. The needles are extremely thin and are much smaller than those used for vaccinations or blood draws. Many animals barely notice them being placed. Some become so relaxed during treatment that they fall asleep, while others enjoy treats, gentle petting, or simply rest comfortably.
Because treatments are always adjusted to your pet's comfort level, nervous or sensitive animals can still have an excellent experience.
Every patient is different. Some pets with recent injuries improve after just a few treatments, while chronic conditions such as arthritis or neurologic disease typically require a series of treatments before transitioning to maintenance care.
After your pet's initial evaluation, you'll receive a personalized treatment plan with realistic expectations for improvement and recommendations for follow-up visits.