Beyond NSAIDs: Alternative Pain Relief Options for Pets

Watching a pet slow down, hesitate on the stairs, or struggle to get comfortable can be heartbreaking. Pain affects more than mobility. It can influence mood, appetite, and daily routines. While NSAIDs are often part of a pain management plan, they are not always the right choice for every pet. Some pets cannot tolerate them, and others need added support for long-term comfort. This is where integrative pain relief and rehabilitation can play an important role.

At Balanced Paws Veterinary Rehabilitation and Acupuncture in Duluth, MN, our expert veterinarian focuses on helping pets stay mobile, comfortable, and engaged in life through advanced rehabilitation and natural pain management options.

Why Some Pets Need Alternatives to NSAIDs

NSAIDs can be helpful for many pets, but they are not suitable for every situation. Pets with kidney or liver concerns, sensitive stomachs, or chronic health conditions may need other options. Senior pets often benefit from gentler, long-term approaches that support comfort without relying only on medication.

Alternative pain relief strategies focus on addressing the source of discomfort while supporting the body’s natural healing processes. These therapies are often used in coordination with your primary veterinarian to provide well-rounded, supportive care.

A Whole-Body Approach to Pet Pain Relief

Pain rarely affects just one part of the body. When a pet avoids using a painful area, muscle weakness, stiffness, and secondary strain can develop. Our experienced veterinarian takes a whole-body approach by evaluating how each pet moves and responds to daily activity.

Individualized care plans are designed to improve mobility, reduce discomfort, and support overall well-being. By combining rehabilitation therapies with natural pain relief options, pets often experience better comfort and a stronger quality of life.

Veterinary Acupuncture for Natural Pain Relief

Veterinary acupuncture is a gentle option that can be very effective for pets dealing with chronic or recurring pain. This therapy works by stimulating specific points on the body to improve circulation, decrease inflammation, and reduce discomfort.

Pets may benefit from acupuncture for:

• Arthritis and joint pain
• Back and neck discomfort
• Post-surgical recovery
• Neurologic conditions
• Mobility challenges in senior pets

Many pets relax deeply during sessions, and some even nap. Acupuncture is especially helpful for pets who cannot take NSAIDs or need additional pain support. For families looking for veterinary acupuncture in Duluth, MN, this therapy can be a valuable part of a balanced pain management plan.

Therapeutic Exercises and Rehabilitation Therapy

Rehabilitation therapy focuses on restoring strength, balance, and confidence in movement. Therapeutic exercises are carefully selected and adjusted based on each pet’s condition, comfort level, and goals.

These exercises can help:

• Build muscle strength and joint stability
• Improve balance and coordination
• Support recovery after injury or surgery
• Reduce the risk of future strain

Our compassionate veterinarian guides each session to ensure exercises are safe, effective, and comfortable. Rehabilitation therapy is commonly recommended for pets recovering from orthopedic injuries, managing arthritis, or living with neurologic conditions.

Laser Therapy and Ultrasound for Healing and Comfort

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses targeted light energy to help reduce pain and support tissue healing. Many pets enjoy the warmth and calming nature of these sessions, making laser therapy a stress-free addition to pain management.

Ultrasound therapy may also be used to support soft tissue healing by improving circulation and flexibility. Both therapies are commonly included in care plans for:

• Chronic joint pain
• Muscle and tendon injuries
• Post-surgical healing
• Ongoing inflammation

Senior Pet Care and Mobility Support

Senior pets deserve comfort, dignity, and the ability to enjoy everyday moments. Aging often brings stiffness, arthritis, and decreased endurance, which can impact mobility and confidence.

Senior-focused pain management aims to maintain comfort while supporting movement and slowing further decline. By combining acupuncture, therapeutic exercises, laser therapy, and supportive manual techniques, our dedicated veterinarian helps senior pets remain active and engaged for as long as possible.

When to Consider Rehabilitation and Pain Management

Pets are very good at hiding pain, so small changes can be meaningful. You may want to explore alternative pain relief if you notice:

• Difficulty standing up or lying down
• Hesitation on stairs or jumping
• Limping or stiffness after resting
• Less interest in walks or playtime
• Changes in behavior or temperament

Starting care earlier often leads to better comfort and long-term results.

Working With Your Primary Veterinarian

Rehabilitation and integrative therapies are designed to complement traditional veterinary care. Our collaborative team works closely with your primary veterinarian to ensure treatments align with your pet’s overall health plan. This approach helps provide safe, thoughtful, and individualized care.

Helping Your Pet Thrive Beyond Pain

Pain does not have to define your pet’s daily life. With the right combination of rehabilitation and natural pain relief options, many pets regain comfort, confidence, and joy in movement. If your pet is showing signs of discomfort or reduced mobility, a personalized pain management plan can make a lasting difference.To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact Balanced Paws Veterinary Rehabilitation and Acupuncture in Duluth, MN at (218) 481-7373. Our dedicated team is here to help your pet move more comfortably and enjoy life again.