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Canine Physical Therapy and Wellness
What is Dry Needling?
Dry needling for dogs is a treatment where very fine needles (acupuncture needles) are inserted into tissues, in order to stimulate a healing effect. Depending on the specific points chosen and the technique used, its proposed effects are: relax muscle spasms and myofascial trigger points (knots in the muscle) to improve function; assist with pain relief; reduce inflammation; improve local immune/healing responses. This must be done by a vet or under direct vet supervision.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that focuses on restoring the energy balance in the body to promote healing. The technique requires the insertion of fine needles into the dog’s body at specified points, called acupuncture points, where nerves and blood vessels converge. TCVM calls the pattern of these sites “meridians”, which are believed to be energy channels that transmit energy throughout the dog’s body.The inserted needles are thought to guide “chi” or vital energy along the meridians. Placed in these identified points, the needles enhance blood circulation, which improves healing ability. Acupuncture also stimulates the nervous system and increases the release of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substances, to reduce a dog’s discomfort.
How are they different?
Dry needling is not the same as acupuncture, although there are similarities between the two techniques. The main difference is the theory behind why the techniques work. Dry needling is primarily focused on the reduction of pain and restoration of function through the release of myofascial trigger points in muscle tissues. Whereas acupuncture is defined as the stimulation of specific acupuncture points along the skin of the body corresponding with 12 energy channels (meridians) on the body. Acupuncture focuses primarily on the treatment of medical conditions by restoring the flow of energy through these key points in the body to restore balance.
Why use dry needling?
Dry needling reduces pain and restores regular length and function of the involved muscle. Dry needling is an effective treatment for acute and chronic pain, rehabilitation from injury, and even pain and injury prevention, with very few side effects. Dry needling also benefits the immune, inflammatory, biochemical, vascular, and neurological systems. Dry needling is extremely effective at eliminating canine neuromuscular dysfunction that leads to pain and functional deficits. It must be done by someone trained in dry needling (We are trained in dry needling).