What to expect during an Acupuncture appointment:
Your appointment will begin with a discussion of the patient's medical history, so that we may best understand the reason for your visit. During an acupuncture appointment the doctor will examine your horse’s tongue for color, size, texture and shape. They will also palpate your horse’s pulses. This information helps the doctor to read the Qi within the patient, much like a cardiologist might use a stethoscope to directly listen to your horse’s heart. With the tongue and pulse information, a “pattern” or diagnosis about the Qi is made.
During your appointment acupuncture needles are inserted into the acupuncture points and the patient rests for generally 20-30 minutes with the needles in. During this time Dr. Patty may step away to finish notes or see another patient, allowing your horse to stand quietly with you. The needles are then removed. Most patients are not bothered by the very thin nature of the acupuncture needles. Some horses, however, are more sensitive and react to the needle placement. Regardless of their sensitivity, most patient’s come to really enjoy their acupuncture sessions! |