ACUPUNCTURE AND YOUR HORSE

Dr. Tania Sundra

July 16, 2018

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This is Pep, a 32yo mare who I have been treating for almost 3 years for chronic hind end pain and weakness. She is now off all conventional medication and is living pain free.

Equine acupuncture has been practiced in China since 2000-3000 BC.

Acupuncture provides the body with an opportunity to achieve “homeostasis” and balance and ultimately heal itself through its own intrinsic healing mechanisms. Acupuncture has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulant and immunosuppressive effects. When administered by a trained veterinarian, it can be extremely beneficial to the overall health care program for your horse.

WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE ?

This is Charlie, a young Warmblood gelding who has responded really well for treatment of anxiety and “Shen” disturbance. With a combination of diet modification and acupuncture the owner noticed a difference after his first session.

The treatment consists of inserting solid, fine, sterile, stainless steel needles into specific points of the body to prevent and treat disease. The procedure must be administered by a licensed veterinarian in Australia as it requires a thorough knowledge of veterinary anatomy and physiology.

Specific acupoints are stimulated within the meridians in the body. The points are chosen after a thorough work-up (history, pulse, tongue assessment and palpation of the muscles).

There are a few ways to stimulate these points :

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1. Dry needling – most commonly used technique and described above.

2. Electro-acupuncture – a low frequency electrical impulse is transmitted to the needles for greater stimulation of an acupoint.

3. Moxibustion – slow burning herb is placed over the acupoint for “warming” effects.

4. Aqua-acupuncture – involves the injection of small amounts of very mild irritants into the region of the acupuncture point. The irritant solution then stimulates the nerves and brain in similar fashion to the needles.

HOW DOES IT WORK ?

Acupuncture needles stimulate tiny nerve endings that carry impulses to the spinal cord and brain. This results in responses within the nervous and endocrine systems, leading to the release of neurotransmitters and hormones. Because acupuncture balances the body’s own system of healing, complications rarely, if ever, develop. It is a means by which the body can heal itself.

WHAT CAN ACUPUNCTURE TREAT ?

• Musculoskeletal pain
• Chronic back problems
• Hock or stifle problems
• Laminitis and Navicular Disease
• Endocrine disorders (Cushings, Hypothyroidism, Insulin Resistance)
• Neurologic syndromes
• Hormonal and reproductive conditions
• Soft tissue injuries
• Inflammation
• Respiratory issues (Allergies, heaves, Herpes)
• Gastrointestinal disturbances (Colic, diarrhoea, anorexia)

HOW WILL YOUR HORSE REACT ?

Most horses, whilst apprehensive at first, usually relax during the acupuncture session. Licking, yawning and chewing are all signs commonly seen during a session and indicate pain relief and endorphin release.

The number and frequency of treatments will depend on what the disorder is and whether it is an acute or chronic issue.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified veterinarian for specific concerns about your horse’s health. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, we do not guarantee its completeness or timeliness. Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services assumes no responsibility for the information detailed below. Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services shall not be liable for any damages resulting from reliance on any information provided within these pages, or by reason of any misstatement or typographical errors. For emergencies or urgent medical issues, please contact your veterinarian directly.

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