What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is defined as the stimulation of a point (acupoint) on the body that has a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles, and lymphatic vessels. The stimulation of these points can release B-endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters which is valuable for pain relief.
History of Acupuncture
Acupuncture in humans and animals has been practiced for thousands of years in China. The earliest book written on acupuncture was written by Dr. Bo Le during the Qin-mu-gong period (659-621BCE). During the last thirty years, acupuncture acceptance and understanding has greatly increased in the United States.
When should I choose acupuncture as a treatment?
Musculoskeletal: Lameness, muscle pain, back pain, arthritis, laminitis, navicular syndrome, tendon and ligament injuries,
Neurologic: Laryngeal hemiplegia, facial and radial nerve paralysis
Gastrointestinal: Diarrhea, gastric ulcers, colic, constipation and impaction
Respiratory: Recurrent airway obstruction (heaves), asthma
Endocrine: Cushing’s disease
Techniques
A variety of techniques can be provided including:
Dry-needle – An acupuncture needle is inserted in an acupoint for stimulation. The needles are very thin, sterile, and various widths and lengths.
Aqua-acupuncture – A liquid is injected into the acupoint, such as vitamin B12, to provide an extended stimulation of the acupoint.
Hemo-acupuncture – A hypodermic needle is inserted into a blood vessel that contains an acupoint to dreaw a few drops of blood.
Electro-acupuncture – Electrical leads are attached to dry needles in order to increase stimulation by controlling the electrical frequency and amplitude.
Moxibustion – An acupoint is warmed by burning the dried leaves of Artemisia argyi over the acupoint and causing the activation of the acupoint.
How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments depends on the condition, the longevity of the condition, and if additional therapies are available to solve the problem. We often provide equine chiropractic (adjustments) to our initial sessions for improved results. Additional diagnostics and treatments may also be provided in order to aid recovery.