Electroacupuncture for pain relief in a dog with osteoarthritis

Abstract

Electroacupuncture is a specific branch of acupuncture that uses electrical stimulation through the selected acupoints. Osteoarthritis is considered a complex condition associated with painful joints and locomotor dysfunction. The aim of this case report was to bring scientific support regarding the effect of electroacupuncture in a dog with chronic joint degeneration. An 11-year-old male German shepherd referred to the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj with severe pain in his hind limbs and around his back. Diagnosis based on a western examination, neurological assessment and radiographs indicated chronic osteoarthritis with hip dysplasia. From Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine based diagnosis was Kidney Qi Deficiency leading to Bony Bi Syndrome. For the last two years, the treated dog with Mavacoxib (single dose every month) did not show any significant improvement. A combination of a fine needle with dry acupuncture, electroacupuncture (30-40Hz alternated with 80-100 Hz) and aqua-acupuncture using Zeel (AP) was performed. During the winter, weekly treatment was planned, after that, every two weeks treatment with electroacupuncture and dry needle, for five months until the present. Since we started the acupuncture treatment, the dog is more active and enjoys playing again. We have managed to stop the administration of NSAID’s and improve his life quality. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of complementary medicine on a dog with chronic pain and joint degeneration. Electroacupuncture is a complex technique that requires special training; if used wisely, it can be an excellent complementary therapy for veterinary patients’ pain control.