Acupuncture has been shown to be beneficial for neck and back pain, disk disease, heart disease, gastrointestinal and kidney disease, joint disease and more. It involves the insertion of tiny, sterile needles into specific locations on the body and is usually well tolerated by my patients. The needles can trigger a biochemical/physiological response that causes the release of many neurochemicals, cytokines, and endorphins. These chemicals can help improve blood flow, tissue repair activation, nervous system stimulation, and trigger the release of anti-inflammatory/pain killing hormones. It has minimal to no side effects which can be beneficial in patients with liver and kidney compromise. Acupuncture is recognized as a valid modality within the practice of veterinary medicine.

This article explains the science behind how acupuncture works: https://www.veterinarypracticenews.com/the-scientific-basis-of-acupuncture-pathways/?fbclid=IwAR1WLoBgj6eTGDqRwm3_1Ey5772lHPaUfqc14ejRUH8ddNxzcHToayKIlkk

Photomedicine/Laser therapy is used as an adjunctive therapy to help accentuate the acupuncture, especially in sensitive areas where needling is impractical. The laser emits light at specific wavelengths shown to trigger a photochemical reaction within the cells.  The photomodulation can improve circulation, reduce inflammation and swelling.  It is also useful in treating superficial wounds like pressure sores or chronic wounds in the debilitated patient.

This research article shows the beneficial effects of cold laser therapy.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5021839/