Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to elicit a therapeutic response. Each acupuncture point has a specific action when stimulated. Modern research shows that acupoints are located in areas where there is a higher-than-normal density of free nerve endings, white blood cells, small arterioles and/or lymphatic vessels. Stimulation of these points induces a series of interactions between the endocrine system, nervous system and immune system. Physiologic effects induced by acupuncture include pain relief, promotion of healing, regulation of gastrointestinal motility, anti-inflammatory effects, immunoregulation, and hormone modulation.

Forms of acupuncture offered:

• Dry Needling – as described above
• Aqua-Acupuncture – involves injecting a fluid into the acupuncture point to stimulate the point with pressure
• Electro-Acupuncture – this procedure involves attaching electrodes to the acupuncture needles and applying an electrical current for stronger stimulation
• Moxibustion – this technique involves burning a special herb, creating heat at specific acupoints to stimulate a response

Acupuncture on its own, or in combination with traditional western medicine can be helpful in treatment of the following conditions:

• Musculoskeletal Problems including caudal heel pain/navicular disease, arthritis, soft tissue injuries, cervical pain, back pain and laminitis
• Neurologic Problems including nerve paralysis, laryngeal hemiplegia (roaring), muscle atrophy, disc disease, trauma
• Respiratory Problems including equine asthma and exercise induced pulmonary hemorrhage
• Gastrointestinal Disorders including mild GI upsets, diarrhea, colic
• Reproductive Problems such as infertility, abnormal cycling
• Ophthalmic Conditions including non-healing corneal ulcers, recurrent uveitis/conjunctivitis
• Certain Behavioral Problems including anxiety
• Performance enhancement in sport horses
• Quality of life improvement in geriatric patients

For acute conditions, results may be seen after just one treatment. For more chronic conditions, 3-5 treatments about 2 weeks apart are typically required to see a notable improvement.

We also offer herbal therapy as an adjunct to enhance the effectiveness of acupuncture.