Dr. Renschler first completed training in Medical Acupuncture for Veterinarians at CuraCore Academy in Colorado, involving acupuncture from a scientific approach. She has since evolved to study and incorporate traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM), using pattern diagnosis based on tongue and pulse, herbal medicine, and a wider array of points--providing even better results in patients. 

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                " It is no longer possible to say that the effectiveness of acupuncture                               can be attributed to the placebo effect or that it is useful only for                                   musculoskeletal pain."   Steven Janz, The Acupuncture Evidence Project

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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How does acupuncture work? 

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    Acupuncture is based on a set of "channels" typically following major nerves and/or vessels. Placing ultrafine needles at points along these channels impacts the local tissue (fascia and muscles) as well as nerve activity, organ function, and the autonomic nervous system. From a TCVM perspective, the channels indicate the flow of "qi" or energy/life force in the body. 

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The diagnostic acupoint exam can provide key information about distant problems in the horse, possibly undetectable by conventional means. Specific acupoint indicators can reliably predict organ issues (stomach, hindgut, liver, ovary, etc.) or help to localize lameness. Dr. Renschler has a keen interest in TMJ-myofascial pain in horses, and she uses several acupoints to assess for this issue. 

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Who can perform acupuncture on animals?

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Based on Indiana law, acupuncture falls under the veterinary practice act. Therefore, only licensed veterinarians may legally provide acupuncture to animals.

 

 

What is an "integrative" approach to treatment?

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Dr. Renschler feels strongly that acupuncture and fascial therapy should not be viewed as an "alternative", as the evidence shows that they can and should be the first-line choice for some conditions. However, these should be integrated with conventional diagnostics and therapies. Every case is unique, and no therapies should be withheld due to a limited "holistic-only" approach.

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