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The Use of Acupuncture and Acupressure in Canine Joint Pain Management


Canine joint pain is one of the most common problems in ageing pets and those with osteoarthritis. Signs include stiffness, reluctance to exercise, difficulty climbing stairs, or reduced mobility. Alongside conventional treatments, many owners are now turning to acupuncture and acupressure as complementary options for pain relief.


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What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves placing fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body (acupoints). These points are located where nerves, blood vessels and connective tissues meet, stimulating physiological responses such as:

  • Endorphin release – the body’s natural painkillers

  • Blocking pain pathways – reducing how pain signals are processed

  • Improved circulation – bringing oxygen and nutrients to tissues


Research Evidence

Several studies have investigated acupuncture for dogs with joint pain:

  • In dogs with osteoarthritis, owners reported that acupuncture improved pain and mobility (Guo et al., 2020).

  • A study review concluded that although acupuncture alone is unlikely to replace conventional pain control, it may be an effective addition in a multimodal plan (Forbes et al., 2014).

  • Other trials suggest benefits in quality of life and reduction of pain behaviours when acupuncture is added to veterinary physiotherapy (Habacher et al., 2006).


Overall, acupuncture is considered safe and beneficial when performed by trained professionals, especially as part of a holistic joint care strategy.


Acupressure: A Non-Invasive Alternative

Acupressure works on the same principles as acupuncture but uses fingertip pressure instead of needles. Applying a firm, steady pressure to specific acupoints results in:

  • Release of endorphins

  • Reduced perception of pain

  • Enhanced blood flow and relaxation


Unlike acupuncture, acupressure is non-invasive and can be performed safely at home, making it a practical natural pain relief method for dog owners. While peer-reviewed research in canines is limited, studies in animals and humans indicate it is a safe, low-risk technique (Xie & Preast, 2013).


Incorporate Acupressure at Home

To support owners, I have created an easy-to-follow eBook.

Inside, you’ll find the following:

  • Step-by-step techniques explained

  • Key acupressure points for all joints including neck, spine, hips, knees and more

  • A safe, non-invasive way to complement veterinary care

This guide is beginner-friendly and designed to empower you to help your dog from the comfort of home. (Note: Informational use only; not a professional qualification).

Download your copy of the guide here:



Final Thoughts

Scientific studies suggest that acupuncture can ease pain and improve quality of life for dogs with joint problems (Guo et al., 2020; Habacher et al., 2006). Acupressure, while less studied, provides a gentle, non-invasive option that owners can apply between medical and physiotherapy treatments.


Explore full range of veterinary physiotherapy services to discover how we can help your dog stay comfortable and active at www.vetphys.info.



References

  • Forbes, L., et al. (2014). The efficacy of acupuncture as an adjunct to analgesic treatment in canine osteoarthritis. Veterinary Evidence.

  • Guo, J., et al. (2020). Randomized, placebo-controlled trial of acupuncture for canine osteoarthritis. BMC Veterinary Research, 16: 357.

  • Habacher, G., et al. (2006). Clinical effectiveness of acupuncture in dogs with musculoskeletal pain. Journal of Veterinary Medicine, 53(9), 490–495.

  • Xie, H., & Preast, V. (2013). Xie’s Veterinary Acupuncture. Wiley Blackwell.

 
 
 

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