Acupuncture

Gold Star Equine Medicine takes an integrative approach using modern Western Medicine combined with Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine to achieve a healthy and balanced horse.

Introduction

Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM), although relatively new to the Western world, is a medical system that has been used to treat animals in China for thousands of years. Developed to understand and treat disease in domestic animals, this ancient science has continued to evolve as each generation adds new knowledge and discoveries. First introduced into North America in the 1800's, Veterinary Acupuncture is currently recognized by the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) and the AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) as an accepted and scientifically valid treatment modality.

The ancient Chinese discovered that the health of the body depends on the state of the Qi (pronounced chee). Qi is the life force or vital energy. Qi flows through the body on a system of meridians. The meridians are basically a map of our body and each meridian relates to a specific body system. Qi flows through the body on these meridians 24 hours a day, maintaining balance of all the bodily functions. When the flow of Qi is interrupted by any pathological factor (virus, bacteria, stress) this balance is disturbed and consequently disease can occur. Pain is interpreted as the blockage of Qi flow. Acupuncture stimulation resolves this blockage, restoring the flow of Qi and enabling the body to heal itself.

Acupuncture involves the placement of very thin needles at specific points called acupoints. Modern scientific research has shown that these acupoints are located in areas where there is a high density of free nerve endings, mast cells, small arterioles and lymphatic vessels. Multiple studies have shown that stimulation of acupoints induce release of beta-endorphins, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters — in effect, stimulating the body to release a variety of natural pain killers. Acupoints may be stimulated through a variety of techniques which include: dry needling, aqua-acupuncture and electro-stimulation. Whatever tools are used, the goal is always to restore the flow of Qi and restore balance in the body.

Acupuncture therapy can be very useful for a variety of conditions:

• Musculoskeletal problems: muscle soreness, back pain, arthritis, obscure lameness
• Neurologic disorders: Laryngeal paralysis, facial and radial nerve paralysis
• Gastrointestinal disorders: Diarrhea, colic (non-surgical), gastric ulcers, impaction
• Other chronic conditions: Anhydrosis (non-sweating), heaves, allergies, behavioral problems, infertility, geriatric weakness, cushings and hypothyroidism
• Performance enhancement: Legal and effective means for boosting performance and easing competition anxiety
• Disease Prevention: Helping to maintain a healthy and balanced horse

Acupuncture is a very safe procedure with very few side effects. In general, each session takes about 20-60 minutes. The number of sessions will be based upon the nature, severity and duration of the disease. Most patients tolerate the treatment very well. Often times our patients even fall asleep during treatment!

Dr. Winnick routinely incorporates the uses of chinese herbal supplements to support and enhance the effects of acupuncture. In addition, food therapy and Tui-na are added in many cases to support the treatment plan.

To learn more about equine acupuncture or to schedule an appointment please call us at 714.589.2480.