Page 624 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

Combining manipulation with acupuncture

The combination of manipulative therapy with acupuncture can sometimes give a better
VetBooks.ir response than either treatment on its own. Both techniques release tension in the muscles and

fascia, thus allowing the circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems to function optimally to
restore homeostasis.

They also reduce the sensation of pain by:

• activating nerve pathways that block or ‘gate’ the ingoing pain signals and prevent them
reaching the brain and being perceived as pain

• activating descending nerve pathways from the brain that act in the spinal cord to prevent
transmission of pain signals.

In every case the cause of pain must be identified and treated or the relief will only be

temporary.

Environmental influences

Physical injuries often affect the mental status of an animal. Altered behaviour such as
withdrawal from social interaction is a common consequence of injury. It also reduces the
ability of the horse to obtain food and protect itself. Horses and people tend to heal faster if

they are comfortable with their environment, so attention should be paid to keeping the horse
relaxed and happy as well as seeing to its physical needs.

Aftercare

Following treatment, advice will be given on aftercare. This will include advice on:

• the period of rest

• rehabilitation
• injury prevention

• exercise and training programmes

• tack.

Veterinary permission

Prior to any treatment, the horse should be examined by a veterinary surgeon. This is so that
any underlying problems requiring veterinary attention can be identified and treated at the

same time. The horse will be examined to ensure that manipulative techniques are