Acupuncture is a system of healing which has been practised by the Chinese and other Eastern cultures for thousands of years. It has evolved from the ancient art of placing needles into special locations on the body, to alleviate pain and increase the recovery rate. There is now a strong body of evidence and practice to support the role of acupuncture in the treatment of animals. There are two types of acupuncture therapists. The traditional Chinese therapists use a combination of herbal medicines and acupuncture needling along meridians or energy channels and acupuncture points. The Western Scientific approach uses fewer needles inserted directly into acupuncture and trigger points. Points selected for needling may be distant from the source of pain. This helps animals to accept the treatment. Both approaches consider the overall well-being of the pet. Western veterinary acupuncture is used particularly in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and chronic painful conditions as well as the promotion of skin healing. The Eastern approach is often applied to other disease states too. Needling works by inhibiting nerve pathways resulting in pain, and has been shown to improve circulation locally thus promoting healing. Acupuncture also stimulates the release of pain relieving chemicals in the brain and spinal cord such as beta-endorphins, which result in exceptional levels of pain relief. Pain thresholds are said to be ‘reset’. Emma Styles is a qualified veterinary surgeon with over 12 years of experience. Emma uses the Chinese approach to acupuncture and has an interest in the holistic health and well-being of small animal pets. She is a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society, and the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists and holds a Certificate in Veterinary Acupuncture. Danny Parry is a qualified veterinary surgeon with over 8 years of experience. Danny uses the Western Scientific approach to acupuncture alongside veterinary medicine and surgery. He is a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists and is currently studying for his Certificate in Veterinary Acupuncture. Acupuncture is not a replacement for conventional medicine. Emma and Danny use acupuncture in conjunction with conventional medicine offered by your usual vet to maintain your pet's health and well-being. Emma is currently seeing patients at Village Vet Highgate and Danny is the Head Vet working at our Garden Suburb surgery, and sees most of his patients there. To make an appointment, please call the Highgate surgery on: 020 7284 4344 or the Garden Suburb surgery on: 020 8444 2644. Clients may also be referred to Emma or Danny by their local Village Vet. To learn more visit: www.abva.co.uk