The ancient art and science of acupuncture has been gaining in popularity rapidly over the last few years in the equine world. Many veterinarians and horse owners are finding it a valuable option in treating many of the chronic problems that horses have that limit our enjoyment of them.

Acupuncture has been practiced for over 3000 years in China and other Eastern countries, and is currently used as the primary medicine for about one quarter of the world's population. This makes it one of the most proven systems of medicine in the world. There have been many scientific experiments that show how acupuncture works from a physiological standpoint. For example, an acupuncture needle inserted into the point named Stomach 36 will cause the stomach to secrete digestive juices and the intestines to increase their movement. When a needle is inserted into the skin a short distance away, there is no response in the digestive tract. This is one of many studies that document the science behind acupuncture.

Acupuncture operates on the concept that there is another system in the body. Like the blood in the blood vessels, and the nerves and electricity, there are pathways along the body through which there is a flow of energy, or as the Chinese call it--"Chi" or "Qi". Along these pathways, called meridians, there are acupuncture points. The acupuncture points are real structures in that it is possible to look at them under a microscope and see a collection of little blood vessels, fine nerve endings, and some special cells called mast cells. It is also possible to measure the points with a modified ohm meter since the points have a lower electrical resistance than the rest of the body.

It is easiest to understand the acupuncture system if it is compared to an electrical system . The points are like dimmer switches, so, if the flow of energy gets blocked, it is like turning a dimmer switch down and not allowing much electricity to get through. If a point is treated with acupuncture, it is like turning the dimmer switch back on and allowing the energy to flow again. Sometimes the energy gets backed up behind the blockage or the dimmer switch, and treating the point allows a more even flow of energy.

Acupuncture can be used to treat many different conditions in horses, but it is best known for its use with musculoskeletal and back problems. Behavioral problems such as resisting training are often successfully treated because back pain is frequently the cause. Many different types of arthritis can be treated including bone spavin and navicular disease. Respiratory diseases such as "heaves" or allergic bronchitis can be treated as well as reproductive disorders such as infertility in both stallions and mares. Colic is often successfully treated, however acupuncture is not a replacement for surgery if that is indicated. Many horses with chronic colic can be helped, and may be cured. Neurologic disorders such as wobblers can often be helped, as well as horses that have had serious neck injuries. Allergic and infectious skin conditions are often successfully treated with acupuncture. It is also possible to boost the immune system and help horses recover from a variety of infectious processes such as influenza, pneumonia and diarrhea.

The International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) and several universities teach post-graduate courses for veterinarians leading to certification. (see the links section of the web site for organizations that list certified practitioners). To be assured that the person doing acupuncture is qualified, ask whether they are certified or are enrolled in a course. To evaluate whether acupuncture therapy is appropriate for a particular case check the results. In most cases, a positive response should be seen in one to four treatments. If that is not happening, either acupuncture therapy is not appropriate or the person practicing may not be very good.

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