We now know that acupuncture affects all major body systems. It works primarily through the central nervous system. Over 100 different neurotransmitters and neurohormones have been identified as factors that are released as a result of acupuncture treatment. As these factors are released, they enter the circulatory system and can exert their effects in areas very distant from the actual acupuncture point treated. Acupuncture also increases blood flow, pain relief, and immune response in the area treated, thus exerting a local effect as well.
Acupuncture is one of the safest therapies available, if performed by a competent acupuncturist.
Because acupuncture balances the body's own system of healing and no chemicals are administered, it is rare for complications or side effects to develop. Dr. Mitchell is an IVAS-certified veterinary acupuncturist practicing in Illinois. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the publisher. All the articles in Holistic Hound have been researched and reviewed for accuracy.