Estimates suggest that 1 in 5 dogs, or 20%, develop a mobility problem in their lifetime. In the UK, as many as 200,000 dogs have mobility issues. If the global pet mobility aids market is any indication, it shows that growth is projected to increase by nearly 9% in the next few years.
The ability and freedom to move without pain is a significant problem for animals because it directly affects their quality of life, comfort, and the opportunities to engage in normal behaviors.
Fortunately, there is an array of treatments available for furry companions to help with mobility issues, combining different therapies to best manage their condition.
One of these treatment methods is acupuncture (AP) therapy, offering significant pain relief and reduced reliance on medication. In addition, it decreases inflammation, improves blood flow, and enhances mobility for canines.
Joint Health and Dogs
Good joint health is the fundamental basis of how a dog moves. Their joints are the hinges that enable the bones to move smoothly against each other. Without healthy joints, their movement becomes stiff, painful, or difficult. Hence, it is vital that canines have healthy joints for ease of movement.
To improve joint health, pet owners can adopt a multifaceted approach focusing on prevention, diet, exercise, and supplements. For example, supplements are beneficial to support inadequacies in diets and address specific health conditions.
To illustrate, PupFlex+ is a supplement that benefits dogs because it supports healthy joint function and flexibility. It also reduces pain and inflammation, decreasing stiffness and discomfort in animals. However, several factors also play a role in joint health in dogs.
As they age, the cartilage that shields their joints naturally wears down, leading to degenerative joint diseases such as osteoarthritis. Genetics, neurologic conditions, excess weight, and inflammatory diseases may make them predisposed to joint problems as well.
Multi-modal Therapies
The good news is that there are several treatments and therapies that work to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with mobility issues. Acupuncture for dogs involves the insertion of needles at points where there are high concentrations of nerves and blood vessels, as well as critical motor points.
Hence, when a needle is inserted, the nerve fibers are stimulated, sending signals to the spinal cord and then the brain. The stimulation activates the release of neurochemicals, including endorphins, which are the body’s natural pain-relieving substances, significantly reducing pain perception.
Acupuncture also reduces inflammation by releasing natural anti-inflammatory hormones like cortisol. Improved circulation is achieved by helping in healing and delivering more oxygen to the tissues. For musculoskeletal pain and stiffness, acupuncture can relax muscles and relieve spasms.
According to a study by Silva and others, acupuncture used by itself or combined with analgesics can relieve pain and improve the quality of life in dogs affected by neurological and musculoskeletal diseases.
Another research conducted by Jaeger et al indicated that 83% of canine subjects showed improved mobility after gold bead implantation, which is a permanent form of AP. Lyle, in her study, cited research by Koh stating the immediate improvement in comfort and mobility of a dog after AP was used.
In conclusion, dogs with mobility challenges can benefit from AP therapy because it offers pain relief and reduces inflammation. It is most effective when used as an adjunct therapy or integrated into a multi-modal therapy, which may include traditional medications, physical therapy, weight management, and joint supplements.
