Electro-acupuncture

Dr. Sarah H. Garcia DVM, CVA

 

Electro-acupuncture (EAP) is a form of acupuncture in which an electrical current is passed between specific points to enhance the stimulation. Adjustment of the frequency and intensity of the electrical current allows for a more consistent and prolonged effect.

High frequency EAP is indicated for internal medical conditions and neurologic conditions (facial nerve paralysis, laryngeal paralysis, etc) and is associated with serotonin release, while low frequency EAP is associated with endorphin release and is indicated for pain management and muscle spasms.

EAP is well tolerated by most horses and treatment usually lasts for about 20 minutes once the needles and wires are in place.

Electro-acupuncture is highly effective in managing musculoskeletal pain. By adding EAP to a dry needle treatment, the stimulation to specific acupuncture points is altered in order to increase the amount of endorphin release. EAP is commonly used in the performance horse to alleviate caudal back pain, muscle pain, discomfort from tendon/ligament injuries, as well as other conditions associated with lameness or poor performance. EAP can also be effective in managing pain due to laminitis, arthritis and other degenerative conditions.