Chronic Pain Management & Veterinary Acupuncture

Gentle, evidence-based support for long-term comfort

Chronic pain can quietly change a pet’s whole world, how they move, rest, play, and interact. We take a calm, whole-being, multimodal approach to improving comfort and supporting the whole patient, not just “masking” pain.

Understanding chronic pain in pets

Chronic pain is pain that persists beyond normal healing time. Often this pain continues for months or years. It may arise from arthritis, spinal or nerve injury, soft-tissue strain, or degenerative conditions.

Because animals can’t tell us they’re in pain, it’s often recognised through subtle changes in movement, activity, or behaviour, such as:

• Slower or stiffer movements, especially after rest
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play
• Muscle loss or uneven posture
• Changes in temperament or reduced interaction

Left untreated, chronic pain can cause ongoing discomfort, muscle wasting, and compensatory strain in other areas of the body.

Our multimodal approach to pain

We often combine therapies to reduce discomfort and help pets move better, such as:

• Physiotherapy and hands-on techniques
• Hydrotherapy
• Laser or shockwave
• Regenerative options where appropriate
• Medication optimisation (with your vet)
• Western veterinary acupuncture

What is western veterinary acupuncture?

Acupuncture uses very fine, sterile needles to stimulate specific points linked to nerves, muscles, and connective tissues. When a needle is placed, it activates sensory nerves that trigger the release of natural pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory substances, such as endorphins and serotonin.

Many pets relax deeply during sessions. It can help ease pain, reduce muscle tension, and support recovery.  Acupuncture can be safely combined with all other rehabilitation therapies.

What can you expect at your first pet acupuncture visit?

Your first visit includes a full pain and mobility assessment. Treatment sessions usually last 30 minutes, and most pets tolerate them beautifully (many snooze!). At the end of your first visit, we’ll recommend a course of treatment and adjust as your pet responds.