Phoenix Burkey

Patient Overview
Phoenix Burkey, a 4-year-old male castrated Siberian Husky, presented with severe neurological impairment. His condition had progressed to the point of full paralysis from the neck down, significantly impacting his mobility and overall quality of life.

Diagnosis and Initial Condition
Phoenix was diagnosed with polyradiculoneuritis at Fourways Veterinary Hospital, a condition that affects the peripheral nerves and can lead to rapid-onset paralysis.

At initial presentation:

• Paralysed from the neck down
• Required hospitalisation
• After one week of supportive care, showed slight improvement, being able to lift his neck and lie on his sternum

Despite this early progress, significant neurological deficits remained.

Treatment Approach
A structured electro acupuncture treatment plan was introduced to support nerve regeneration, improve muscle activation, and accelerate recovery.

Treatment protocol:

• Total of 5 electro acupuncture sessions
• 2 sessions per week for the first 2 weeks
• Thereafter reduced to 1 session per week

Treatment took place from 21 December 2025 to 10 January 2026, with a total treatment duration of approximately 3 weeks.

Progress and Response to Treatment
Phoenix showed encouraging improvement over a relatively short period:

• Continued progression from initial neck movement to improved overall neurological function
• Increased strength and responsiveness
• Gradual return of mobility beyond the early hospitalisation stage

The structured and intensive early treatment phase played a key role in stimulating neurological recovery.

Outcome
Within 3 weeks and 5 treatment sessions, Phoenix demonstrated significant improvement from his initial paralysed state. While recovery in such cases can vary, his progress over a short timeframe highlights the benefit of combining supportive care with electro acupuncture.

Conclusion
Phoenix Burkey’s case illustrates the potential of electro acupuncture in managing acute neurological conditions such as polyradiculoneuritis. Early intervention, combined with an intensive treatment schedule, can support nerve recovery and improve functional outcomes, even in severe presentations.