January 25, 2023
Your pet may experience pain for many reasons. Injury, post-op recovery, disease, infection, allergies and arthritis, to name just a few of the possibilities. The pain can also be either short-term or chronic. With more and more research showing the benefits of a holistic approach to pain management, pet owners are now opting for gentle and natural treatments to complement veterinary care.
Here are some of the most effective ways to treat pain, the natural way.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient branch of TraditionalChinese Medicine (TCM), that has been used for thousands of years to help stimulate the body’s natural healing ability. Both humans and animals can benefit from acupuncture, and it is considered a great option for pain relief.
Acupuncture is particularly effective due to the multiple levels of healing it activates.
Endorphins are released that not only help alleviate pain, but also create a sense of wellbeing, encouraging healing at a deeper level.
Cortisol is released. Known as the ‘stress hormone’, cortisol is a natural anti-inflammatory and helps the body manage physical stress.
Acupuncture stimulates the immune system, resulting in an increased number of white blood cells circulating in the blood stream, fighting infection, and facilitating healing.
The circulatory system receives a boost during an acupuncture treatment, as blood is drawn to the affected area, speeding up the body’s natural healing ability.
Inflammation is reduced, bringing a welcome relief from swelling and pain in the affected area.
Supplements
Supplements are a really easy way to help support your animal. Here are some of the most popular you may like to consider when providing pain management:
Turmeric
Adding turmeric to your pet’s food is an effective and natural way to help relieve pain. Turmeric contains curcumin, which is a phytonutrient known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-viral, and antioxidant effects. Studies have shown that curcumin is particularly effective as a complementary treatment for arthritis.
Green Lipped Mussel
Green Lipped Mussel is a type of mussel found off the coast of New Zealand. The mussels contain glycosaminoglycans (you may have heard of glucosamine, which belongs to this group). These form part of the ‘building blocks’ of cartilage, which protects the bones and helps keep joints moving smoothly.
Green Lipped Mussel contains many vitamins, minerals(vitamin C & E, zinc, magnesium and copper), and antioxidants, which helps promote cell repair. There is evidence that this supplement has a positive effect on arthritis and is beneficial in tackling long-term inflammation, including skin conditions and digestive issues.
Massage
Massage treatments encourage healing by relaxing and relieving stress throughout the body, simply by targeting the soft tissue of the animal.
Soft tissue connects all muscles, bones, tendons and organs, and includes a connective network of fascia that runs throughout the whole body. Any tension or restriction in the soft tissue or fascia will not only cause pain and inflammation within the affected area; but can also create dysfunction within the surrounding muscles and organs. When soft tissue is restricted by tension, the ability of muscles and joints to move smoothly is impacted. Inhibiting natural movement in this way can create nerve dysfunction, swelling, and patterns of pain referral.
Regular massage treatments encourages ease of movement, and the relaxing affect calms the nervous system, which in turn creates healing within the body. Spending time massaging your animal can be such a rewarding experience for you both. It is an opportunity to bond, and you will quickly find that both of you will relax and your stress just melt away…
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy provides so many health benefits for dogs (you might want to leave your cat at home for this one!). The options normally include supported swimming in a pool, or walking on a submerged treadmill, depending on the treatment plan.
The heat of the water dilates blood vessels and improves circulation, whilst the hydrostatic pressure reduces swelling and inflammation around the joints.
Whether your dog is recovering from injury; post-op rehabilitation; or chronic pain management, the buoyancy of the water will reduce the impact on the joints, whilst improving the range of motion.
Added benefits are improved gait and balance, and cardio fitness.
As all of these pain management options are natural; they can be combined together to support your animal in the most effective way.
Claire Oats
Specialist Animal Kinesiologist B.Sc, Dip Kin
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About the author
Claire Oats is a Specialist Animal Kinesiologist and Canine Behaviourist from Perth. Claire has worked with dogs for the last 25 years and specialises in resolving behaviour problems using Kinesiology techniques to remove physiological, neurological and emotional stress.
Please note: Claire's blog is general advice only. For further information on this topic please consult your veterinarian.
