Terri Van Wambeke DVM, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture refers to the insertion of solid thin specialized needles into specific points on the body for the purpose of improving overall health and balance. Additionally, the practitioner may elect to use aquapuncture (the injection of liquid - usually Vitamin B-12 or Saline), electroacupuncture (stimulation of acupoints using different electrical frequencies), moxibustion (adding heat using a specific herb to acupoints) or hemoacupuncture/bleeding.

The history of acupuncture and Chinese Medicine?
Chinese medicine and acupuncture has been practiced on both humans and horses for approximately 3000 years. There are almost twice as many known acupoints on humans as animals.

What conditions can benefit from acupuncture?
There are a myriad of conditions that can be treated using acupuncture therapy. Acupuncture is classically known for its effect on pain, particularly back pain. It is a very good modality for the treatment of geriatric disorders and those musculoskeletal issues that have not had good success with more traditional western therapies. Below is a brief list of some common indications for acupuncture treatment: 

Back pain
Osteoarthritis/Degenerative Joint Disease
Lameness
Laminitis
Crankiness or Stiffness Under Saddle
Laryngeal Hemiplegia (Roarers)
COPD/Heaves
Muscle damage or Atrophy 
Nerve Damage or Local Paralysis
Foot Soreness (Caudal Heel Syndrome, Navicular Syndrome,etc..)
Anhydrosis (Non-Sweaters)
Tying Up

Behavioral Issues

Dermatologic Problems (allergy, hives)
Immune Disorders 
Infertility 
Endocrine Disorders  (Cushings Disease)
Geriatrics 
Diarrhea
Uveitis
Jaw Pain
Wobblers/Neck Pain
Trauma

Electroacupuncture for disc disease

Laminitis

What to expect from your acupuncture session? 

Because this is an integrative medicine practice - Western and Eastern Medicine - we will review your horse's medical history prior to our initial session. During the session your horse's tongue, pulse, respiratory rate, heart rate, and general physical condition will be evaluated. We may then watch your horse move and perform a general musculoskeletal evaluation including hoof balance. Specific points on your horse will be evaluated for sensitivity. Following the examination we may recommend additional diagnostics such as lameness or neurologic exam, bloodwork, radiographs or ultrasound examination. We generally recommend that any additional diagnostics be performed by your regular veterinarian or a veterinary referral facility and will help facilitate this as we can. Depending upon the results of the exam; herbal medications, homeopathic remedies, limited western medications, stretches or massage may be prescribed in addition to acupuncture and/or chiropractic therapy. If the horse is experiencing issues predominantly under saddle we may evaluate the fit of both the bridle and saddle, evaluate the horse under saddle, and recommend changes or refer you to someone such as an equine dentist or saddle fitter. Once you have scheduled an appointment, we will provide you with important veterinary medical history documents and forms to be completed and returned prior to your session. Please allow 30-45 minutes for each session.

         

What makes acupuncture work? Is it safe? 

Research has shown that proper acupoint stimulation produces local and distant effects on the body through modulation of the nervous system. This refers to a combination of signal pathways that are activated in the body through needle insertion or other types of point stimulation. As an example, substances such as endorphins, epinephrine, and histamine are released in the body.

As with any medical treatment there is always the possibility for side effects. As a rule, acupuncture is generally well tolerated and safe when performed by a licensed and trained veterinarian. It is recommended that animals not be treated with acupuncture 24-48 hours prior to an event. Some animals will become temporarily worse or sore following treatment and may need a few days off prior to resuming their regular work schedule. All horses receiving acupuncture treatment are required to have a current tetanus vaccination.

How often should acupuncture be performed? 

Most conditions will respond in 3-10 sessions. Sometimes you will see results within a few days - of course this depends on the patient and the condition. I may recommend 1-2x weekly or monthly sessions followed by once or twice yearly "tune-ups".  For horses needing more intensive therapy we offer treatment packages for animals boarded at TJ Equine ( please refer to services offered section).

Education and Training

 IVAS Mixed Animal Acupuncture Training and Certification Course

Chi Institute West Coast Mixed Animal Acupuncture Training and Certification Course