Page 603 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

14

VetBooks.ir COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

EQUINE ACUPUNCTURE

The history of acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used for more than 3000 years in China. In the UK it has been widely
practised in human medicine since the 1970s and most pain clinics now have an

acupuncturist as part of their team.
In the veterinary world, acupuncture is increasingly being acknowledged as a useful

treatment for a wide range of conditions. This is particularly exciting as it offers another
option for patients not responding to conventional veterinary treatment. Insurance companies

recognize this and include acupuncture in their cover for veterinary fees.

Who can do acupuncture?

Only a qualified veterinary surgeon is allowed to perform acupuncture on animals. In-depth

training and certification is provided by the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists
(ABVA), the International Veterinary Acupuncture Society (IVAS) and the Chi Institute of

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine. Mastery of acupuncture takes years of study and
practice.

What is acupuncture?

Acupuncture involves inserting fine, stainless-steel needles through the skin at specific points
called acupuncture points. This is known as dry needling (Figure 14.1). The needles

commonly used for horses vary in length from a few millimetres ( in) to 8 cm (3 in). Once
inserted, the needles may be withdrawn immediately or left in place for 20–30 minutes.

While in situ, they may be manipulated by hand for stronger stimulation of the point.