Acupuncture Success Story - Corkie!

"Corkie and Alese"

An LAH Super Senior and an LAH Super Assistant

This is Corkie, a 9 year-old spayed female Chihuahua who came to see Dr. Preston for pain and difficulty walking.  During her exam, it was noted that Corkie had decreased neurologic function in her left front and both rear legs.  She was lacking conscious proprioception in these three limbs, the awareness of position and ability to move body segments correctly.  Corkie was diagnosed with Intervertebral Disc Disease.  In short, one or more of the discs that are found in between the vertebra were inflamed, causing pressure on the spinal cord and associated nerves.

Corkie did respond to anti-inflammatories.  She felt better and her conscious proprioception improved in the rear limbs, but she was not back to normal. Her left front limb was still markedly affected and she could not and would not go up and down stairs. Dr. Preston discussed acupuncture with Corkie's owners and she was referred to Dr. Nell for treatment.  Dr. Nell evaluated Corkie using both Western and Eastern exam techniques.  Specific acupuncture points were chosen to decrease inflammation, treat pain and restore appropriate circulation (Western). From a Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) standpoint, points were chosen to treat pain, resolve Phlegm, and restore the appropriate flow of Qi and Blood.

During the first treatment, conscious proprioception was restored to Corkie's left front limb.
After Corkie's second treatment, she went up and down the stairs of her own accord.
By the third treatment, Corkie's owner felt that she was 100% better.

Corkie will continue to be seen for acupuncture every 4 weeks or as needed for Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD).  It is important to have realistic goals when using acupuncture as treatment for disease, especially structural disease such as IVDD and arthritis.  Acupuncture can not alter structure, and therefore will not cure these medical issues. However, it can reduce inflammation, decrease pain and restore function.  In Corkie's case, it helped her to regain a normal quality of life!

"Corkie responded very well to acupuncture. It was really helpful and we will recommend it to others!"

-- Corkie's Family

If you would like to explore acupuncture as a treatment option for your pet, please call and schedule a consult with Dr. Nell.  We are here to help - 503.285.2337