Acupuncture is the act of placing a fine needle into the body at specific points. It is a tool we can use to interact with the central nervous system (via the muscles and peripheral nerves), which controls all functions of the body.

 

Acupuncture has been evolving over the last 3,000 years. Through research, we have learned much about how and why it works. Acupuncture points are located where nerve bundles exit fascia (connective tissue in the body), in close proximity to major blood vessels surrounded by small nerve bundles, at motor points (where nerves enter or exit the muscle), and in trigger points in muscles.

 

Acupuncture is used at Bella Vista Equine as a valuable complementary treatment tool and is not a replacement for a “Western” physical examination and conventional treatments. Acupuncture has minimal side effects and can be used simultaneously with most drugs and conventional therapies. Acupuncture also provides another treatment option we can offer when other diagnostics/therapies have been unsuccessful.

 

Why use acupuncture as part of a treatment plan for your horse?

• Better control of chronic diseases

• Speed healing time

• Pain control (muscle soreness from rigorous training; post-trauma or post-operative pain)

• Maintenance of performance level

• Reduce inflammation

• Normalize circulation

• Achieve general wellness through preventive medicine

 

Conditions for which to consider acupuncture:

• Arthritis

• Muscle soreness

• Nerve injuries/paralysis

• Back/neck pain

• Lameness

• Laminitis (“Founder”)

• Tendon injuries

• Allergies

• Wound healing

• Non-surgical colic

• Recurrent Airway Obstruction (“Heaves”)

• Corneal ulcers and other eye problems

• Reproductive difficulty

 

Acupuncture in horses should always be performed by a licensed veterinarian certified in acupuncture.