Lameness Diagnosis in Equines

Acupuncture in Equine Lameness Diagnosis: A Simple Guide

What Is Acupuncture Diagnostic Scanning?

Acupuncture diagnostic scanning, also called acupuncture point sensitivity scanning (APSS)  involves a trained veterinarian palpating acupuncture meridians on the horse's body to identify "reactive points" that indicate pain or underlying issues. This non-invasive diagnostic method when used alongside a standard lamenes or clinical examination, can pinpoint sources of lameness, musculoskeletal pain, myofascial restriction, and even internal issues like gastric ulcers, helping to tailor an effective acupuncture treatment plan. 

Is there scientific evidence supporting acupuncture scanning?

Research over the past decades shows that acupuncture point sensitivity can provide valuable insights into equine lameness:

• General Lameness Detection: Studies have shown that scanning multiple acupuncture points across the horse’s body has around 80% accuracy in distinguishing lame from sound horses. While this is not a standalone diagnosis, it serves as an effective early screening tool.
• Localization of Lesions: In larger studies, the points that reacted during scanning often corresponded directly to the actual site of injury, including tendons, ligaments, muscles, joints, bones, nerves, and the back. This was later confirmed with imaging techniques like ultrasound or radiography, demonstrating a strong link between reactive points and real pathology.
• Reliability of Scanning: Acupuncture scanning has a very high negative predictive value (about 98%), meaning that if a horse shows no reaction at the points, it is highly unlikely to have a significant lesion. Reactive points, on the other hand, indicate areas where further examination is warranted.
• Hock (Tarsus) Pain: Certain points—GB-27, SP-13, BL-39a, and BL-39b—have proven especially useful for diagnosing hindlimb lameness related to the hock. Studies comparing these points with objective motion analysis found a 71% agreement, which was better than subjective veterinary exams alone (64%).
• Stifle (Knee) Problems: Horses with stifle issues often show reactivity at a sacral point along with points on the back and thigh (BL-20, BL-21, ST-30, and thigh groove points). Imaging confirmed lesions in the majority of these cases, supporting the use of acupuncture scanning as a complement to traditional diagnostics.

How does this help us in practice?

Acupuncture diagnostic scanning is a non-invasive and practical tool that can enhance the lameness examination. It helps veterinarians:

1. Identify suspected problem areas quickly.
2. Decide where to focus further diagnostics, such as nerve blocks, ultrasound, or radiography.
3. Detect early signs of musculoskeletal stress or injury, improving intervention and welfare.

It is important to note that while acupuncture scanning is highly valuable for screening and localization, it should always be combined with a complete physical exam and diagnostic imaging for a definitive diagnosis.

Conclusion

Acupuncture diagnostic scanning offers a scientifically supported way to enhance lameness evaluations in horses. By using the body’s natural response at specific points, veterinarians can detect potential issues early, guide focused examinations, and improve outcomes. This technique is a reliable complement to conventional methods and can save time while supporting the welfare of the horse.

Does this interest you ? Have you any questions? 

Let me know below !