Integrative Medicine in Erie, PA

Modern medicine is advancing constantly for humans and animals. However, some feel that we can’t leave behind our ancient forms of medicine. With an integrative approach, Dr. Jewell can use our western diagnostics and centuries-old techniques of acupuncture to further benefit our canine and feline companions. Ancient Chinese medicine is based on the philosophy that illness is caused by an imbalance of vital energies in the body.

Acupuncture is one aspect of Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) that aids in restoring the energy balance in the body and promoting healing. With balance, the body can heal itself. The technique requires the insertion of tiny fine needles into the animal’s body at specified points called acupuncture points where nerves and blood vessels converge. These points are located in energy channels called meridians.

The inserted needles guide “chi” or vital energy along the meridians. This will enhance blood circulation which improves healing ability and increases the oxygenation to the tissues. The acupuncture points will also stimulate the nervous system and increases the release of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving substances to reduce discomfort for the animal. Acupuncture relaxes muscles both where the needle is inserted and muscles located elsewhere in the body. By releasing naturally occurring pain relief and anti-inflammatory substances in the body, acupuncture can reduce the number of pain medications that are needed for the animal. Most pain medications and anti-inflammatory drugs are quite safe but may affect organ function, so the veterinarians at Glenwood Pet Hospital will monitor organ function through bloodwork.

Acupuncture has no systemic side effects so it is particularly helpful for animals in poor health. Dr. Jewell uses a combination of treatments to provide the best results. Acupuncture and medical therapy can be safely used together which is beneficial when neither method can provide the desired response. Acupuncture can be used to treat a large number of problems. Dr. Jewell will use medical therapy and acupuncture to treat arthritis, pain, endocrine disease, nausea from pancreatitis, inappetence from cancer, and many other disease processes. What happens during the first acupuncture session with Dr. Jewell? She will go through the problem list for that animal and everything that has been done thus far (bloodwork, X-rays, medication, and the response).

Dr. Jewell will perform her own physical exam and discuss treatment options. Most patients are a little nervous for the first session but settle quickly upon insertion of the needle. The entire session can last between 25-45 minutes pending on what is done. Most issues that are being treated require weekly sessions for 3-6 weeks pending the chronicity of the problem. After improvement is seen, the sessions begin to space out or as needed.