Page 607 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse
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Figure 14.4 Laser acupuncture
What are acupuncture points?
Acupuncture points are areas on the skin that have high concentrations of free nerve endings
and blood vessels. They have a higher electrical conductivity than the surrounding skin.
What conditions can acupuncture treat?
Acupuncture can be used as part of a treatment protocol for almost any medical condition
with the exception of malignant tumours, irreparable fractures and end-stage organ failure. It
is often used in conjunction with conventional veterinary treatment and so the patient
experiences the benefits of their combined effects.
In equine practice, acupuncture is commonly used for the relief of chronic
musculoskeletal pain and to influence the function of internal organs. An example of the
latter is the stimulation of intestinal motility in some cases of colic.
