I am not accepting new acupuncture and laser appointments at this time.  

“Pain…Love it.” – Hiccup, How to Train Your Dragon

Of course, Hiccup did not really love pain. Most of us would prefer not to experience it, but pain does have a purpose and that is to prompt awareness of injury or illness. However chronic pain, such as pain associated with arthritis is pain that has lost its purpose. Furthermore, ongoing pain can perpetuate itself by causing even more inflammation and increasing pain perception through a process known as “wind up.”

Aging pets often experience chronic pain symptoms due to osteoarthitis and degenerative joint disease. This is often noted in the hips and back, but can affect other joints as well. Chronic pain may also be present in younger animals that have disc disease or other injuries.

There are many means by which pain symptoms can be alleviated in companion animals. Among these are conventional medications such as anti-inflammatories, opioids and gabapentin. Nutritional supplements such as glucosamine, chondroitin and fish oils have also been shown to help control joint pain and inflammation. Physical therapy involving the use of water treadmills and exercises aimed at strengthening muscles and facilitating weight loss also benefits pets. Finally, pain control can be achieved through the use of acupuncture and low level laser therapy (LLLT). Pain management is often best achieved through a “multi-modal” approach in which these different methods are used in combination. Dr. Cross takes this approach and will discuss these options to help you make the best decisions for your pet.

Please visit acupuncture and laser therapy for more information on these modalities.

Contact us at Companion Home Vet Care in Longmont, CO for Pain management services for your pet.