10/05/2026
Hey y'all! Here are some common things we can see with acupuncture treatments that Dr. Bukenhofer will get asked about!
😱Why is that needle bent? Is that bad?
The first two photos are 2 needles that were placed in the same points on left and right sides of the horse. In this patient, they were points used to treat stifle pain. Can you guess which side had more Qi stagnation? It is common to see some bending or twisting of the needles in areas that are active with stagnation.
🤔How do you know where to put the needles?
Our bodies, and our horse's bodies have 12 regular Meridians where acupuncture points are located. Those Meridians are mirrored on the right and left sides of the body. While the points have the same actions on both sides, they are specific for that side of the body for their local effects.
🤨Why is that needle sticking out? Why are all these needles different?
In our third and fourth photos, we have needles that aren't passed all the way to the 'end', and different needle sizes. Sometimes when there is excess Qi stagnation and discomfort, the acupuncture point can be quite sensitive. In those cases, Dr. Buk will only pass the needle as far as the horse tolerates. In some cases, that means staying just at the skin for the entire treatment. Depending on location and issue being treated, needle length will vary. Over the course of several treatments, the horse usually will tolerate a longer needle as Qi stagnation is resolved with time.
We hope yall learned something neat today!
To see how acupuncture can relieve pain and help your horse perform at their best, call or text Equine Integrative Veterinary Services at 405.549.9070 to schedule your horse's appointment with Dr Bukenhofer today.
