Integrative Therapy: Restoring Physical Function
At West Hills Animal Hospital, we are committed to providing compassionate, high quality and progressive care. Integrative medicine offers the ability to give our patients complementary therapy options when needed or desired. We are continually seeking ways to grow to meet individual needs and nurture the bond between you and your companion.
Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM)
TCVM seeks to restore health by improving balance within the body, following ancient Chinese medicine principles and assessments. Acupuncture is the most commonly applied therapy but three other modalities may be used depending upon the needs of patients and their families. Herbal medicine can be formulated to treat a specific disease pattern and are typically given orally. Food therapy uses diet changes to address imbalances within the body. Tui-na is a form of Chinese massage that includes manipulating acupoints and Meridians to promote the circulation of Qi.
Veterinary Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the insertion of needles into specific points to produce a healing response. It is virtually painless; many pets feel very relaxed or even sleepy once the needles are in place. Successful therapy is based upon the points selected, the method of stimulation and the duration of stimulation. Acupuncture as been shown to cause changes within the central nervous system, increase blood circulation, relieve muscle spasms and cause the release of certain hormones. This complementary therapy has been shown to help with many conditions like arthritis, traumatic nerve injury, intervertebral disc disease, feline asthma, allergic dermatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, incontinence and sports injuries.
