Introduction to Acupuncture
Veterinary Acupuncture Services believes in the use of modern Western medicine supplemented with Chinese Acupuncture for utmost health and success for patients. Dr. Allie Turner graduated from the Chi Institute in Florida and is Certified in Veterinary Acupuncture. We have provided the following article to explain and introduce acupuncture, explain the science behind it, and some common issues in horses where acupuncture treatments can be utilized.
How do acupuncture needles relieve pain?
Acupuncture is an ancient “evidence based medicine,” therefore the benefits of acupuncture have been seen and recorded for thousands of years. It is not until recently that research using the rigorous scientific method has been done to demonstrate how it works and validate its benefits. The US National Library of Medicine Institute of Health (www.pubmed.gov) has a total of 21,696 articles regarding acupuncture and 341 animal-specific articles as of December 2014.
Anatomically each acupuncture point contains a high density of lymphatic vessels, free nerve endings, and blood vessels. Stimulating these specific points with acupuncture needles creates a natural release of endogenous opioids, endorphins, serotonins and norepinephrine. Research has proven acupuncture can be beneficial and effective for pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
What does the acupuncture treatment entail?
Prior to treatment, a thorough “scan” will be performed to evaluate the entire horse. Combined with your traditional western medicine physical and lameness exams, the scan provides an even more comprehensive assessment to determine the most beneficial treatment plan.
There are several ways to stimulate the specific acupuncture points for your horse:
- Dry needling is the insertion of sterile, disposable needles ranging from ½ inch to 3 inches in length.
- Aqua-acupuncture is the administration of Vitamin B12 or other fluids, into a specific acupuncture point to allow a longer effect at the chosen point (s)
- Electro-acupuncture stimulation applies a mild electrical current to the dry needles to help stimulate deeper tissues
- Low light laser stimulation can be used at the acupuncture points to provide similar effects to dry needling. This modality is ideal for “needle shy” or extremely muscle sore patients.
Is acupuncture safe?
Yes! It is safe with very few side effects. Side effects include bleeding, bruising at the site of the needle placement, and local infection in the area where the needle is inserted.
Acupuncture is not recommended for horses that are pregnant and those with open wounds.
How does it feel?
Typically it is felt as a small pin prick, some equine patients don’t seem to be bothered by the needles at all; others may react to the sensation.
Some horses will fall asleep during their treatment!
What can acupuncture be used for?
Acupuncture is an excellent complement to Western medicine providing relief of musculoskeletal pain, obscure lamenesses, back pain, and decreased performance. It is also effective in managing chronic diseases, behavioral issues, and heaves.
How soon can we expect results?
Some effects can be seen immediately, although other conditions will need several treatments.
We recommend 3-5 treatments, often 2 weeks apart for more chronic conditions.