Equine Acupuncture Therapy
A powerful treatment method for muscular issuesAcupuncture therapy involves inserting very small diameter needles into specific points within the body to simulate a local and systemic response from the nervous, circulatory, muscular and immune systems. Acupuncture points are regions that are rich in accessible free nerve fibers. Needling these points creates a painless microtrauma on a cellular level which causes the body to produce a mild inflammatory response which increases blood flow, stimulates local immune tissue and can reduce muscle tension. Acupuncture needles can also be used to treat muscular “trigger points” which are focal regions of painful muscle spasm.
Our Approach
Dr. Waring-Scott does not practice traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM). Her acupuncture training is from the Curacore Institute in Colorado, which teaches evidence based acupuncture with a neuroanatomical approach.
Diagnoses aren’t based on tongue color, pulse quality, constitution or evaluation of “chi” flow. Treatments are based on a western diagnosis and physical exam.
Commonly Treated Aliments
Acupuncture has been shown in many studies to be a great treatment modality for many issues. It is especially effective in pain control as it will activate the body’s natural pain management properties. Common applications are as follows:
- Arthritis management
- Chronic laminitis
- Sore backs and necks
- Head shaking/Trigeminal neuritis
- Anhidrosis (non-sweating)
- Laryngeal hemiplegia (“roaring”)
- Seasonal allergies
- Non healing wounds
- Reproductive issues
- Immune mediated conditions
- Intestinal motility disorders
- …and many more!
Acupuncture is considered a complementary therapy, meaning it is not intended to fully replace standard veterinary care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Equine Acupuncture
Answered by Dr. Waring-Scott
My horse doesn’t like needles, will they hate acupuncture?
Acupuncture needles are vastly different from hypodermic needles. They are much smaller in diameter and are not painful when inserted. The act of an acupuncture treatment is also much different than a traditional veterinary visit involving needles. There are many horses that dislike needles that can benefit (and enjoy!) an acupuncture session.
How long before I see results in my horse?
Acupuncture has cumulative effects, so best results are seen after multiple sessions. The standard recommendation is to try three sessions within the first month and then follow-up with routine maintenance if a benefit is seen. These follow-up appointments are condition dependent and can be anywhere from 4-8 week intervals.
Can acupuncture be used with other treatments such as chiropractic?
Yes! Combination appointments of a chiropractic adjustment followed by an acupuncture session can be very effective at managing many conditions.
Now scheduling appointments in Central and Northern New York.
Large group appointments available throughout all of New York state.