One of the lesser-known services offered at VRC is acupuncture, administered by Dr. Stephanie. Acupuncture involves the precise insertion of needles into specific points on the body, followed by mechanical or electrical stimulation. This process activates various nerve components, triggering biochemical and biophysical reactions that can alleviate pain and promote healing.
Acupuncture is utilized as a supplementary therapy at VRC, as it is non-invasive and can be incorporated into other treatments. Horses that respond well to acupuncture can benefit from focused relief and healing during their time at VRC.
While acupuncture is not used as a standalone treatment, Dr. Stephanie has successfully used it as part of a comprehensive approach. For instance, in one case, acupuncture helped manage discomfort in a colicking horse, potentially avoiding the need for surgery. This underscores the significant role acupuncture plays as a powerful supplementary therapy at VRC.