ABSTRACT:
Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body to alleviate pain and stimulate homeostasis. This article describes acupuncture as a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), looking at the role of Qi and meridian systems. It also explains the Western approach to acupuncture and the complex neurophysiologic cascade that results from acupuncture needling. As well as the mechanism of action, the history of acupuncture is also explored. There are examples of how acupuncture can be used in small animal practice. Commonly treated conditions include arthritis and hip dysplasia. Acupuncture can be part of integrated medicine.
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Notes on contributors
Holly Mash
Holly Mash
BVSc VetMFHom IV AS MRCVS
Holly Mash is a veterinary surgeon specialising in complementary medicine – homeopathy and acupuncture, www.hollymashvet.com. She is based in Bristol, where she has her own referral practice, but also runs regular holistic medicine clinics in West London. Holly is the holistic vet adviser for Your Cat and Your Dog magazines. She is also part of the teaching team at the Bristol Homeopathic Hospital.