Here is a brief explanation of the therapies that can be integrated with current therapies to improve patient quality of life. Some alternative therapies can replace medication or surgery when the patient cannot tolerate those options. These treatments provide more options for patient care.

ACUPUNCTURE:
Acupuncture stimulates endorphines and other chemical mediators in the body to help with pain, inflammation, and balancing the immune system. There is research documenting these effects. It is useful for a variety of conditions including arthritis, disc disease and paralysis, GI disorders and kidney disease, and maintainging appetite and energy in cancer patients.

ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES:
These include homeopathics, Bach Flower remedies for emotional problems, and treatments for allergies.

HERBAL MEDICINE:
The majority of herbs are Chinese herbs from Jing Tang Herbal associated with the Chi Institute in Florida. These are modern modifications on classic formulas which are hundreds of years old. They are useful for most conditions including seizures, skin problems, and cancer.

PROLOTHERAPY:
Prolotherapy is an alternative to surgery for partial or complete torn cruciate (and other) ligaments. It involves injections to attract growth factors which aid healing and results in stronger ligaments. This can usually be done in a calm conscious or lightly sedated animal. NSAIDS and steroids will interfere with this treatment. Often acuounture and herbs are used in conjunction with prolotherapy.

ESSENTIAL OILS:
These are volatile, aromatic liquids distilled from plants. Each oil may contain 80-300 different chemical compounds. They can be inhaled, absorbed through the skin, or taken internally. Some uses are emotional problems, arthrtis pain, resistant bacterial infections, GI problems and as insect repellant.

VOM( Veterinary Orthpedic Manipulation):
This is a form of chiropractic involving an activator device to relieve subluxation of the spine causing impingement on nerves.