LAKEWOOD, Colo., July 29, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Wadsworth Animal Hospital in Lakewood, CO announced that the practice has had great success using pet acupuncture for natural pain management. The veterinary care team of Dr. Eric L. Eisen, Dr. Carla A. Anema, and Dr. Erika Olson strongly recommend acupuncture as an alternative to traditional painkillers or as an option when medication proves ineffective. Acupuncture treatments may help pets suffering from hip dysplasia, nerve injuries, arthritis, and other chronic health conditions.
According to the veterinary care team at Wadsworth Animal Hospital, acupuncture treatments are effective for managing pain in companion animals. "Pet acupuncture is an important healing tool," said veterinarian Dr. Eric Eisen. "At our animal hospital, we have incorporated acupuncture into treatment plans for hip dysplasia, traumatic nerve injuries, degenerative joint disease, arthritis, and systemic inflammatory conditions. I strongly recommend pet owners consider this important therapy."
Pet acupuncture uses long, thin needles to stimulate pressure points. According to Ancient Chinese healing tradition, these pressure points correspond with the body's life force. Stimulation at pressure points may improve nervous system communication, which reduces pain.
According to veterinary medical research, acupuncture may also have other physiological benefits, including improved circulation, reduced blood pressure and an increased level of endorphins in a pet's body.
"While we are still learning more about how acupuncture treatments work, we do know that they have made a tremendous difference for many of our pet patients," said veterinarian Dr. Carla Anema. "These treatments are an effective way to relieve pain without invasive surgical procedures or reliance on painkillers."
Veterinarian Dr. Erika Olson did caution that acupuncture is not always an appropriate treatment choice for every pet. Additionally, not all animals respond to the treatment.
According to Dr. Olson, an estimated 75 percent of pet patients experience a significant or major improvement, although some symptoms may remain. While some pets respond immediately to treatment, others may need multiple sessions before they show improvement.
"We consider pet acupuncture to be one part of our pet wellness care program," said Dr. Olson. "As a non-surgical, non-drug therapy, acupuncture promotes internal healing. However, it is not right for every pet, nor is it a viable replacement for all pet wellness care treatments. Our veterinary team will assess the pet's wellness needs and determine the best course of care."
The animal hospital frequently integrates acupuncture treatments with other pain management protocols. The veterinarians may also recommend acupuncture as an alternative treatment option for immune problems, asthma, and urinary tract problems.
In addition to acupuncture treatments, the Lakewood veterinary hospital provides comprehensive pet wellness care, puppy and kitten care, surgical procedures, vaccinations and emergency care.
Pet owners may learn more about these services by visiting http://wadsworthanimalhospital.com. The practice serves Denver, Bel Mar and Lakewood.