Integrative Medicine and Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats in Pasadena: Increasing Movement and Well-Being
Integrative pet medicine is a combination of health care techniques that focus on the musculoskeletal and neurological systems. The skeleton is the framework for muscles and nerves and also protects the internal organs. Neurological communication is essential for proper movement and orientation in space. The nerves that exit the spinal cord innervate or communicate/govern all of the organs and organ systems of the body. The internal organs and glands cannot function properly without proper communication from the brain, spine, and nerves.
When communication between these systems is compromised, it leads to stiffness, pain, tension, organ dysfunction, and reduced ability to compete. Causes of decreased motion include trauma, overuse, disuse, and degenerative disease processes. Integrative medicine, including pet chiropractic, cat and dog acupuncture, and herbal medicine all help to address these issues and restore mobility to your pet.
How Chiropractic Helps
The goal of animal chiropractic is to restore mobility and normal range of motion to the joints that are not functioning properly, thereby addressing pain, function, and the overall health and well-being of our animal companions. Adjustment is performed after careful examination and a specific thrust is placed on the structures that are not moving properly or are ‘stuck’ with the goal of returning normal motion to the joint(s). This treatment restores normal neurological communication, which coordinates the body’s ability to heal and eventually return to optimal health.
The Role of Acupuncture for Dogs and Cats
Acupuncture is an ancient form of therapy originating from China. It involves the placement of fine needles along “meridians” or energy channels along your pet’s body. These energy channels correspond with blood vessels and the musculoskeletal system. The flow of energy can be interrupted due to injury, disease, or chronic conditions. Acupuncture for dogs and cats restores the flow of energy along these meridians and facilitates healing and relief by relaxing muscles and drawing in more blood flow to the targeted area.
The Benefits of Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine involves the use of herbs and plants to treat a range of ailments. Dr. Stiehl is invested in employing more Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine in the treatment of patients. She will be undergoing more coursework in TCVM to further her knowledge of herbal therapies.
The benefit of herbal remedies is their power to affect many different bodily processes with a single herb, with little to no risk of side effects. When you combine herbs, a more complete, whole-body treatment plan takes effect.
Creating a Care Plan for Your Pet
Animal chiropractic care is often coupled with cat or dog acupuncture to optimize treatment goals. Herbal therapies such as nutritional supplements, herbal formulas, and a balanced nutrition plan are the foundation of overall health and should also be considered as well for all patients.
All of our animal friends – from the young and active to our animals in their twilight years – should reap the benefits of integrative pet medicine. It is part of a holistic approach to animal wellness and should be used as a complementary modality in conjunction with high-quality traditional veterinary care for every companion animal.
I truly can't say enough wonderful things about Dr. Ashley and his amazing staff.
-Ericka C.