MORE INFORMATION ON ACUPUNCTURE

Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine solid needles at specific points on the body to elicit a theraputic effect. 

In the UK only Veterinary surgeons (or veterinary nurses under direct supervision of a veterinary surgeon) are allowed to perform acupuncture on animals. This differs from human acupuncture whereby the practitioner does not need to be a medically trained doctor.  

The insertion of the acupuncture needle at defined acupoints stimulates release of neurotransmitters and hormones, which have an effect on the horse via the nervous system. Acupuncture has been found to have a comprehensive effect at every stage of the pain pathway, including: transduction, transmission, modulation and perception of pain. It provides a 'multi modal' form of pain relief, and has an effect on the brain (proven by MRI studies). It causes activation of the Limbic system, which is why horses often appear 'sleepy' during their treatment. Acupuncture causes release of endogenous opiods, which reduce pain and relieve anxiety. 

A diverse range of conditions can be treated with acupuncture, usually in combination with conventional veterinary medicine. Some of these conditions include:

• Musculoskeletal conditions- such as back or neck pain, muscle stiffness, myofascial pain, osteoarthritis, laminitis, splint formation and other obscure lameness 
• Gastrointestinal disorders- excessive faecal water, diarrhoea, chronic low grade colic, gastric ulceration, impaction.
• Neurological disorders- laryngeal paralysis, seizures, nerve paresis, neurogenic muscle atrophy, head shaking.
• Chronic conditions such as COPD, equine asthma, uveitis, infertility (uterine fluid accumulation), skin problems.
• Overall mood enhancing. can be used with some behavioural abnormalities. 

Treatment can be performed at home on your yard, so long as an area of clear standing (free from bedding) is available. First we will discuss your horse and any problems you have encountered. Sometimes the horse will be seen moving, in a straight line or on the lunge or both. A thorough examination shall then be performed whereby the areas of discomfort are identified using palpation. The first needle usually placed is Bhi Whi and is near the lumbosacral region. This point has many positive effects and is usually well-tolerated by horses; giving me an idea of how they are likely to react for further needle placement. I do not simply identify the area of most discomfort and treat there, but I work my way up to this area according to how the horse behaves and how painful the area is. Usually the first treatment will involve the use of 8-12needles; with more needles being placed in subsequent treatments. Interestingly the 'dose' of acupuncture is not related to needle numbers, instead it is related to 'tissue grab' which is the resistance felt through the needle when placed in an appropiate activated acupoint. The needles usually stay in for 20 minute, during which time horses will often appear sleepy, almost like they have been sedated. 

There is no prescriptive number or frequency of treatment when it comes to acupuncture. It depends entirely on the condition being treated, how the horse responds during and after treatment; as well as time and financial constraints of the owner. This will be discussed at the end of your treatment and a plan will be made specifically for your horse. 

Absolutely not, acupuncture is in my opinion an excellent adjunct to conventional veterinary medicine but should not be used to replace it. I will often discuss your horse with your primary veterinary surgeon, and by treating your horse this by no mean means that I am taking over care of your horse. I provide only acupuncture as a single service; your own veterinary surgeon will continue to be responsible for routine care, as well as emergency care and any conventional veterinary treatment required. I believe a team approach is best and i often liase with vets, farriers and phyisiotherapists to ensure between us we optimise your horses health and performance. 

 Electroacupuncture is whereby a small electrical current is passed through the needles; enchancing its effect and having a specific effect on the nerve in particular cases. It is particularly useful for cases of chronic pain where a stronger stimulation is required to elicit a response. It has proven excellent in cases of muscle atrophy such as after healing of pelvic fractures, and there have been promising results in cases of trigeminal nerve associated head shaking. 

Although I do travel to yards for clinic days, if I am not based near you it will be better to find a vet who can perform acupuncture in your area. Speak to your primary vet in the first instance, as they may be able to perform acupuncture or direct you to someone in the practice who can. If not you can use the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists (AVBA)  'find a vet service' to find a veterinary surgeon trained in acupuncture in your area.