EQUINE ACUPUNCTURE

We are pleased to announce that we now offer Acupuncture. Dr. Brady Hellman has recently completed both the basic and advanced courses at the Chi Institute in Florida and is now offering Acupuncture treatments and herbal consultations for horses, camelids, small ruminants, and dogs!

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese medicine using needles to stimulate specific points in the body. Each point has a specific relationship to different body systems and regions of the body. When used correctly, these points focus the body to heal the ailments or imbalances targeted. In addition, acupuncture relieves ‘blockages’ in the body’s energy. These blockages result in pain and lameness.

What conditions can be treated with Acupuncture?

Illness and pain is the result of an imbalance or blockage in the body. Acupuncture works to balance the body’s systems and resolve stagnation. Acupuncture is very effective at treating a number of ailments including (but not limited to): obscure lameness, organ failure, heaves, diarrhea, colic, Cushing’s disease, laminitis, navicular disease, anxiety, EPM, poor performance, back pain, inability to conceive, etc. Some conditions respond well and resolve faster when acupuncture is combined with conventional medicine. For example, a case of pneumonia should be treated with antibiotics. However, acupuncture can speed healing and treat secondary problems such as loss of appetite, and inflammation within the lungs.

How many treatments are necessary?

When pursuing acupuncture, a commitment to 3 treatments (2-4 weeks apart) should be made. Results may be achieved sooner. However, in severe or chronic cases, it may take more treatments to get complete resolution.

How long does an acupuncture session take?

Plan for 1 hour per session. First, the animal is examined and assessed and information will be gathered. Next, the needles are placed. Depending on the animal or case, electrodes may be attached to specific points and stimulated with a low dose of electricity for 10-30minutes. Alternatively, the needles may be stimulated by applying heat using a technique called moxibustion. Following removal of the needles, aqua-acupuncture may be performed in certain cases. With Aqua-acupuncture, B12 is injected at select points to serve as a long-term stimulant. If interested, herbal choices will also be discussed.

What about Herbals?

In some cases, adding herbal medicine may achieve faster or more complete resolution of the problem. The herbal formula is chosen based on your animals’ specific case. It works internally to address the same problems addressed using needles. Think of it as a small dose of daily acupuncture. In most cases, the herbals can be weaned down or discontinued within 2-3 months. Most animals do not seem to mind the taste and take them without a problem.   CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE