How Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) Can Help Pets with Epilepsy

Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in pets, affecting both dogs and cats. It’s characterized by recurrent seizures, which can be distressing for both the animal and their owner. While conventional treatments like anticonvulsants are often prescribed, more pet owners are turning to holistic approaches, including acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), to help manage epilepsy in their pets.

If your pet is suffering from epilepsy, you may wonder how acupuncture and TCVM can offer relief. Let’s dive into how these therapies work and the benefits they can bring to pets with seizures.

What is Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM)?

TCVM is an ancient system of medicine that has been used for thousands of years to treat a variety of health issues in both humans and animals. It includes techniques such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, dietary therapy, and Tui Na (Chinese therapeutic massage). In TCVM, health is seen as the balance of Qi (vital energy) and Yin and Yang (the opposing forces that complement each other). When this balance is disrupted, illness can occur. TCVM aims to restore that balance, encouraging the body to heal itself.

Acupuncture and Epilepsy

Acupuncture, a key component of TCVM, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and restore balance. This technique is believed to have several benefits for pets with epilepsy:

1. Regulating the Nervous System
   Epilepsy is often linked to abnormal brain activity that results in seizures. Acupuncture has been shown to help regulate the nervous system, modulating the brain’s electrical activity. By stimulating certain acupuncture points, acupuncture can help to normalize the frequency and severity of seizures, potentially reducing their occurrence over time.

2. Improving Blood Flow to the Brain
   Acupuncture can increase blood circulation to specific areas of the body, including the brain. Better circulation ensures that the brain receives adequate oxygen and nutrients, which may help stabilize neurological function and reduce the likelihood of seizures.

3. Reducing Inflammation
   Seizures can sometimes be triggered or exacerbated by inflammation in the brain. Acupuncture can promote the release of anti-inflammatory molecules and enhance the body’s natural ability to reduce inflammation, which may help prevent or decrease seizure activity.

4. Promoting Qi Flow
   In TCVM, epilepsy is often associated with a disruption in the flow of Qi, particularly in the liver or heart meridians. By targeting acupuncture points that balance these energy pathways, acupuncture can restore the natural flow of Qi and help mitigate seizure activity. Acupuncture may also help alleviate the stress and anxiety that can often accompany seizures, providing an additional layer of comfort for your pet.

5. Complementing Traditional Medications
   While acupuncture is not a substitute for conventional treatment, it can be used as a complementary therapy alongside anticonvulsant medications. Many pet owners report a reduction in the frequency and intensity of seizures when acupuncture is added to the treatment regimen, allowing for a lower dose of medications and fewer side effects.

How Can TCVM Help Pets with Epilepsy?

In addition to acupuncture, TCVM encompasses other therapies that may benefit pets with epilepsy:

1. Herbal Medicine
   TCVM practitioners often use Chinese herbs to help regulate the body’s Qi and balance the organs involved in seizures. Herbs such as Gastrodia are commonly used to support neurological health and may help reduce seizure frequency. Herbal medicine should only be administered under the guidance of a qualified practitioner to ensure safety and effectiveness.

2. Dietary Therapy
   TCVM emphasizes the importance of nutrition in maintaining health. For pets with epilepsy, a customized diet can help support overall well-being and prevent triggers. Certain foods are thought to have a calming effect on the nervous system and may help prevent seizures, while others may exacerbate the condition. A TCVM veterinarian can recommend the best diet for your pet based on their individual needs.

3. Tui Na (Therapeutic Massage)
   Tui Na, a form of Chinese therapeutic massage, can help relax the body, reduce stress, and improve circulation. For pets with epilepsy, Tui Na may help alleviate muscle tension and promote relaxation, which can be beneficial before or after a seizure.

Benefits of Acupuncture and TCVM for Pets with Epilepsy

• Non-invasive Treatment
  Acupuncture and TCVM are non-invasive therapies that can provide relief without the side effects often associated with pharmaceuticals. This makes them an appealing option for pet owners looking for gentle, holistic treatments.

• Customized Care
  TCVM is highly individualized. A TCVM veterinarian will take into account your pet’s unique symptoms, health history, and overall condition to create a treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. This personalized approach can be especially helpful in managing a complex condition like epilepsy.

• Reduced Seizure Frequency and Severity
  Many pet owners report significant improvements in the frequency and intensity of seizures after starting acupuncture and TCVM treatments. While results vary, many pets experience fewer or less severe seizures over time, improving their quality of life.

• Stress Relief
  Epilepsy can be stressful not only for pets but also for their owners. Acupuncture and TCVM techniques can help reduce anxiety, relax the body, and promote emotional well-being for both pets and their families.

What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session

If you’re considering acupuncture for your pet’s epilepsy, you’ll want to visit a veterinarian trained in TCVM. During an acupuncture session, the veterinarian will perform a thorough evaluation of your pet’s health, including their medical history, seizure patterns, and overall behavior. Acupuncture needles will be inserted into specific points on your pet’s body, and they are typically left in place for around 20-30 minutes.

Most pets tolerate acupuncture well, and it is a relaxing and low-stress procedure. In some cases, you may notice your pet becoming drowsy or calmer after a session, which is a sign that the body is responding to the treatment.

Conclusion

Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine offer a holistic approach to managing epilepsy in pets. These therapies can help regulate the nervous system, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate the frequency and severity of seizures. When used alongside conventional treatments, TCVM can support your pet’s overall well-being and provide relief from the distressing effects of epilepsy.

If you’re considering acupuncture or TCVM for your pet, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian who is trained in these techniques. They can guide you through the process and develop a personalized treatment plan that supports your pet’s health and comfort.

If you’d like to learn more about how acupuncture and TCVM can help your pet with epilepsy, feel free to contact Total Quality Mobile Veterinary Clinic. I specialize in acupuncture and integrative medicine serving Raleigh, NC and the surrounding areas. I am here to support you and your pet every step of the way.  

Dr. Tierra Kershaw Hawley