1.3. GASTROINTESTINAL PROBLEMS (Fig. 10)
AP can help in many g/i/t problems, including diarrhoea, constipation, indigestion, colic, windsucking, gastritis, enteritis etc. When AP is accompanied with Herbal Medicine, success rates are higher and last longer (M.J.C).
The most important points for g/i/t problems in the horse are on the BL and GV Channels (area T11-S4). The more anterior points are mainly for LV, SP, ST problems. Intestinal problems are treated mainly by points in the area T18-S4. Rectal problems relate to the sacral points, such as BL29,30,33,34.
In TCVM, GuanYuanShu is placed about 2 hands from the GV line, just behind the last rib. This point is most important in gastric and intestinal problems, including colic and windsucking. It is in the position of BL50 in the transposition system, lateral to BL21 (the Shu point of the stomach). Human GuanYuanShu (BL26) is between the transverse processes of L5-L6. It (with BL25) relates to uterus and large intestine in humans.
1.3.1. Colic (Fig. 11)
(Cain; Kuussaari; Kothbauer; White)
AP can give 100% success to a single treatment in acute cases of sand colic and gas colic (but not in surgical cases). It is useful in intestinal distension also.
AP can be by simple needling (20 minutes) or by electro-AP (20 minutes). Cain gives strong, repeated stimulation to all points except GV26. That point should not be overstimulated in conscious animals, as it may cause shock.
The important points are: BL50 (2 hands from GV line, behind last rib); CV12 (midway navel to xiphoid, on ventral midline). To these may be added three points behind BL50, level with vertebrae L3,4,5 (Kothbauer's BL51-1,51-2,51-3 (old 46-1,46-2 and 46-3)), SP21,21a, LI17, BL20,21,25,27, GV01, ST36, GB25a, GV26, ST02.
1.3.2. Windsucking, crib-biting (Fig. 12)
Horses which suck wind and are cribbers usually have chronic digestive problems, especially chronic or mild gastritis (Kuussaari). They may show colic, tympany and flatulence. Successful treatment of the digestive disorder is associated with disappearance of windsucking in 67% of cases but longterm success in crib-biters is much less (29%) (Kuussaari). Workers at Tuft's University have shown that windsucking and cribbing causes endorphin release, similar to "runners' high". They have been able to control cribbing by injecting naloxone.
The important points are BL50; PiShu; WeiShu; AnHua; SanChuan; ChiChia (GV12).
Treatment: simple AP (20-30 minutes) or electro-AP (20 seconds/point) for 2-6 times (mean of 3), at intervals of 2-5 days (mean of 4 days) (Kuussaari). White (1985) gives two new points on the upper and lower ends of the brachiocephalic muscle (YINQI 1 and 2) for this condition.
Treatment by strong electro-AP every 12-24 hours for 0.5-4 hours/time, on 9-29 occasions was said to be successful. Relapse was predicted unless a muzzle was used and the feed-pot lowered to the ground.
Thus, at present, Kuussaari's points seem to be a better combination.
1.3.3. Gastric ulcer, diarrhoea
P.A.M.R. treated 2 suckling foals with gastric ulcer and 3 adult horses with chronic idiopathic diarrhoea. The important points are BL20,21,25,27; GV03; ST36; PC06; AhShi points in the paravertebral area.
Treatment: electro-AP (20 minutes) for 2-5 times (mean of 3), at intervals of 7 days. Success: 2/2 foals recovered within days (2 sessions) but only 1/3 adults recovered within 2 weeks (3-5 sessions).
1.4. RESPIRATORY PROBLEMS (Fig. 13)
See the LU and SP Channels in the Appendix. Despite textbook claims and reports from some clinicians, Kothbauer and Kuussaari had poor success with AP in equine respiratory conditions. When AP is accompanied with Herbal Medicine, success rates are higher and last longer in respiratory disorders (bleeders etc)- (M.J.C)
Important points for upper respiratory problems are in the area of the trachea (CV22,23; ST09,10; GV14,15 etc) or nose (LI20; YinTang; GV26 etc).
Important points for lower respiratory conditions are the BL and GV points in the area T3-T10 (BL13-17,42-46; GV09-12 ) and points in the intercostal spaces (ICSs) over the lung area.
1.4.1. Bronchospasm, heaves, bronchitis (Fig. 14)
The late Drs. Grady-Young and Westermayer reported good success (50-85%) in early cases of heaves (before alveolar rupture occurs). AhShi points in the lung area were used. BL13 and 43 were usually tender. Points were selected from: BL13,14,15,42,43,44; LU01,01a,07,09; PC06; KI10,27; ST19; GV14,17,19,20; HT01; LI04,20; ST36,45; TH01 (depending on other signs).
Treatment: simple AP, 15-20 minutes at intervals of 3-7 days for 4-8 times. Success depends on the seriousness of the pathology.
Grady-Young used Laser on the Shu points for the lung and on other points in the lung reflex area (behind the scapula) in Pasteurella pneumonia in cattle. He reported good success. He also suggested its use in respiratory conditions in horses but gave no statistics of its success.
1.4.2. Bleeders, lung haemorrhage, epistaxis (Fig. 15)
The diagnostic and therapeutic success of AP in bleeders is excellent (Cain; Jeffries). A history of sudden fading in a race, together with tenderness at the Shu and other reflex points for lung (below the posterior edge of the scapula and behind the scapular cartilage in the area of BL17, BL42-46 and GV09) indicates lung or nose bleeder in 95% of cases. The SP Channel points (BL20 (SP Shu), SP21,21a) are always tender in bleeders.
If vertebrae C1-T8 are intact (normal neck movement and no AhShi in the neck and anterior withers area), sensitivity along the outer BL line (BL42-46 (old BL37-41) from T8 through T14, together with sensitivity at BL13 and 20 suggests a lung bleeder. Bleeding usually occurs in the right lung, thus the right side is usually sensitive, especially on BL42-46, although left BL13 and 20 (Mother of LU) are also tender. These points are diagnostic for lung bleeders, even when endoscopic examination may be negative. There is evidence that Bleeding may be transmitted genetically. One of Cain's mares had 5 bleeders. Such mares should not be bred. However, 80-85% of non-genetically determined bleeders in Cain's practice do so because of abuse of drugs (banamine, phenylbutazone, aspirin, androgenic anabolics etc) or due to stress (pain from any source causing hypertension).
Identify and balance all affected Channels; stimulate the lung (BL13) and its Mother (BL20, SP Shu). This is the best treatment. The points used are the AhShi points and TianPing; BaiHui and two other GV points between these points. AhShi points may be injected with 2 ml of Vitamin B12 + C solution and 1 ml in the GV points. BL17 (diaphragm and haemorrhage point) is especially good in haemorrhage, anaemia and blood diseases. BL17 and 18 (liver Shu) influence liver function also and may improve prothrombin formation and blood clot formation. Herbs to strengthen the Qi of LU and SP help also. These methods are not effective in genetically affected cases.
The therapeutic success can reach 90% if AP is given 4-24 hours before the race (Jeffries).
1.4.3. Rhinitis, sinusitis (Fig. 16)
Grady-Young claimed c. 95% success with simple AP or Laser. Treatment was 20 minutes, 3-5 times, every 3-4 days. The points are chosen from CV23; GV25; SP21; LV13; BL18; GB25; ST09; SI16 and AhShi points over the lung and chest area. Other Local points (YinTang; TaiYang, LI20; GV26; ST02,03 etc) can be used also.
1.5. REPRODUCTIVE PROBLEMS (Fig. 17)
The Channels most often involved in reproductive problems are SP, KI, TH. Their Shu points are BL20,23,22 respectively. Their Mu points are LV13, GB24, CV05. There is also an ovary point in the paralumbar fossa and point TH16 (endocrine) is a useful distant point. Local points include WeiKen (GV02), BaiHui (GV03), MingMen (GV04), BL51,28,35. Occasionally BL14 (PC Shu) and the GV point in between may be tender in breeding problems. Sensitivity at TH16 usually disappears when BL22 (TH Shu, endocrine) is treated (M.J.C).
The most important points for reproductive disorders and for the genital organs are in the lumbosacral area. A simple guide is to imagine the female organs (ovary to vulva) as a straight tube. The ovaries relate to APs in the area T18-L3 (points such as BL21,22,23,50,51,52; TianPing; GV05,04). The vulva/anus/perinaeum relate to the area from S3 to the tailhead (points such as BL29,30,33,34,35,54; GV01,02). The other organs (tubes, uterine horn, uterine body, cervix, vagina) relate to intermediate points.
Kothbauer recommends BL22,23,52; GV04 for the ovary and BL27,28,31; BaiHui; CV06 for the uterus. Johnson reports excellent results with these points in cases of uterine atony, metritis, embryonic reabsorption etc.
If one had to remember 4 points for reproductive/genital disorders, they should be: BL23 (between transverse wings of L2-L3) for the ovary; BL26 (between transverse wings of L5-L6) for the uterus; BaiHui (lumbosacral space) for the cervix and BL28 (lateral to sacral foramen 2) for the vagina/bladder.
There are other points (Fig. 18). The abdominal Channels include ST, SP, BL, KI, GB, LV, CV, GV. Local points (points nearest the target organs) on ANY of these Channels influence the organs. Although most importance is attached to the GV and BL points (lumbosacral area), GB26-28 (paralumbar fossa and under the external angle of the ilium) are sometimes tender in mares with ovarian problems, especially cysts. Points over the iliac wing (between the tuber coxae and the iliac crest) may also be tender in uterine disorders.
In disorders of the reproductive system and genitalia, (as in all other clinical uses of AP !) Treat the AhShi (tender) points. A few points (whether tender or not) for the affected organ may be added and CV02,03,04; BL54; LV02 may be considered as additional points. SP06 is regarded as a point with special action on the inguinal area, genitalia and reproductive function of males and females.
Westermayer suggested treatment for 20-30 minutes for 2-4 times (mean of 3), at intervals of 5 days.
1.5.1. Anoestrus (Fig. 9)
(Cain; Kuussaari; Hwang; Grady-Young; Johnson; White)
See section 1.5.
In anoestrus mares, points in the area L3-S4 (BL23-34; BL52-54), points along the KI Channel and SP06 are palpated for tenderness. AhShi (tender) points are treated. Other points in anoestrus include: BL22,23; SP6; YanChi; YungChi; BaiHui; XieQi; CV01,05,08; GV01.
Treatment: 20-30 minutes simple AP (deep needling to reach the broad ligament in the posterior lumbar points), or electro-AP (20 seconds/point or 20-30 minutes/time). Moxa may be combined with simple AP (Hwang; Johnson). Moxa should not be used where there are inflammable materials (straw bedding etc in stalls, barns etc). Always consider fire hazard before moxa is used. Laser was also good (Grady-Young).
Kuussaari: Treat 1-5 times (mean 2 times) at intervals of 2-5 days (mean 3 days).
Hwang: Treat with needle + moxa for 10 minutes for 5-10 times at intervals of 1-2 days and expect oestrus within 2 weeks.
Grady-Young: Laser (20 minutes total to do all points) 3-8 times at intervals of 3-4 days. Mares cycled after session 6 (after 3 weeks).
Johnson: Needle + moxa (20 minutes) on 10 cm, 20 gauge needles. Inject BL40 and Laser SP06; ST36 and (sometimes) BL11.
White: BaiHui (8-10 cm deep); YanChi (18-23 cm deep); GV01 (20-25 cm deep; needle directed forwards and up to lie under the sacrum). Electro-AP, 20-30 minutes, 1-3 times at intervals of 2 days.
1.5.2. Cystic ovary (Fig. 20)
(Cain; Jeffries; Grady-Young; Johnson)
See section 1.5.
Luteal cysts often are associated with metritis or pyometra. They may be expressed manually (per rectum) in many cases (Grady-Young). Follicular cysts are usually associated with nymphomania. Cystic ovaries often cause neck and shoulder lameness and thoracolumbar lameness on the same side (M.J.C). See the TH, GB and LV Channels (Appendix). If BL22 is tender, check TH16.
Points in area L2-S1 (BL22-27,51,52; GV04) and in the para-lumbar fossa and under the tuber coxae (GB26,27,28) are examined for tenderness. Check BL18,19 (LV Shu and GB Shu) also and TH16 (endocrine point). All AhShi (tender) points are used. Other points are chosen from: BL22-29; SP06,15; LV14; GB25,25a; ST36; BaiHui; YanChi.
Jeffries and Johnson also inject 10 ml of 2% procaine solution into the broad ligament on each side of the cervix, using a special 50-60 cm needle. This method was successfully used in cows by Kothbauer and Greiff for many years. It is called paracervical injection or neural therapy.
Treatment: Simple AP; injection of homoeopathic NaOH 9d solution + Vit B12 and Ascorbic acid; Laser. The choice is individual preference.
Jeffries: Injection method plus paracervical injection, 2 times. Success is 5-15% better in luteal cysts than in follicular cysts.
Grady-Young: Laser (20 minutes total to do all points) 3-5 times at interval of 3-4 days. Skip 3 oestrus periods before breeding.
Johnson: Needle + moxa (20 minutes) on 10 cm, 20 gauge needles. Inject BL40 and Laser SP06; ST36 and (sometimes) BL11.
1.5.3. Repeat breeders (Fig. 21)
(Cain; Jeffries; Grady-Young; Johnson; Rogers; White)
See section 1.5.
In the investigation and treatment of repeaters, it is assumed that the stallion has been examined and been found to be fertile, potent and that ejaculation is normal.
Repeating may be due to ovarian disease, failure of the ovum to reach the uterus (salpingitis etc), failure to implant (metritis etc) or early death of the embryo.
The lumbosacral area and the paralumbar fossa area are examined for AhShi points, as above. All AhShi points are used. It is not possible to give just one prescription for repeaters, as the cause and the organs involved differ as described. The general principle is: AhShi points + points for the affected organ(s) or function(s).
Thus a selection must be made from points such as: BaiHui; YanChi; BL22-34,51-54,58; GB25,25a,26-28; GV01,02,04; SP06; KI06; LV03; CV02-06 etc.
Treatment: Simple AP; injection of homoeopathic NaOH 9d solution + Vit B12 and Ascorbic acid; Laser. The choice is individual preference.
Jeffries: Treat as for ovarian cysts.
Grady-Young: Laser (20 minutes total to do all points) 3-8 times at intervals of 3-4 days.
Johnson: needle + moxa (20 minutes) on 10 cm, 20 gauge needles. Inject BL40 and Laser SP06; ST36 and (sometimes) BL11
White: Electro-AP, 20-30 minutes, 1-3 times at GV01,04; BaiHui; YanChi; BL24
1.5.4. Reproductive problems in stallions (Fig. 22)
(Cain; Johnson)
See section 1.5.
Male disorders (oligospermia, libido loss, reluctance to mount or pain on mounting) can be treated successfully by AP in the stallion and the bull (Kothbauer).
Testicle points correspond with ovary points (see embryology of kidney, testis, ovary). The main points are BL21,22,23,50,51,52; TianPing; GV04,05 and SP06.
Penis points correspond with vagina points (see embryology of these organs). The main penis points are BL29,30,33,34,35,54; GV01,02 and SP06.
The principles of selecting points in male disorders are the same as in the female:
: AhShi points in area L2-S4 and in the paralumbar fossa, iliac area
: points for the affected organ(s) and functions.
1.6. OTHER CLINICAL USES
1.6.1. Anxiety, nervousness, especially in filly (Fig. 23)
Cain found that extremely nervous, "freaked-out" horses may become somnambulistic and impossible to needle because all points become sensitive (flight of fight syndrome). These horses quieten down when injected with 3 ml naloxone solution. They can be needled successfully then (see section 1.3.2).
The main Channels for nervousness are the HT and PC (Fire) Channels. Key points are BL15,14,22; PC06 (M.J.C). SI18 and TH17 are tranquillizer points.
Gold bead implants (using a 16 gauge, 3.5 cm needle) in BL14,15,43,44; LI17; SP21 and CV17 give good results (M.J.C). He used 2 beads/point. The beads were inserted under local anaesthesia or sedation and are left in situ permanently.
Sweating, nervousness: Add the relevant Ting point, especially PC.
1.6.2. Skin problems
(Cain)
The skin is Metal (LU, LI). Skin problems are more common in late autumn (Metal) and late winter (Water, KI-BL). Excess activity in TH (Fire) can weaken LU (Metal) (via the Ko Cycle). This manifests as poor hair coat (LU controls skin). Balancing LU, TH and KI enhances local treatment remarkably.
CONCLUSIONS
The main methods of stimulating the AP response in horses are point injection (very fast), or simple needling or electroneedling for 20 minutes.
Classical AP gives better and more longlasting results than Cookbook AP, especially in complicated cases. Cookbook AP is useful for beginners and can give good or excellent results in simple cases but beginners are advised to study AP in depth to get the best results. This is not as difficult as it might seem. The classical concepts can be learned from AP courses, such as those given by IVAS.
Point selection for local problems includes the relevant Ting Point(s), plus AhShi (tender) points which remain after that. Other points include: Local points, Region points, points with special or generalised action and (most of all) the paravertebral Shu point(s) for affected organ(s) or function(s). This includes the use of Shu points in superficial problems which may not have direct organic involvement. For example, BL13 and 25 (Shu points for the LU and LI Channels) are indicated as part of a prescription to help resolve pain of an inside forelimb splint (in the Channel area of LU and LI). Similarly, BL23,28 (Shu of KI and BL) are indicated in capped hock (Channel area of KI and BL). One or two distant points on a Channel passing through the problem area, or a chain of points along an affected nerve also help.
Some key points are:
BL11,23 bones, joints;
BL13,43 lung;
BL18, GV09 liver;
BL23, BaiHui adrenal, urogenital, hindquarter;
BL25, BaiHui hindgut;
GB20,21 neck;
GB34, TH15 muscles;
LI11, GV14, ST36 immunostimulation.
ST36, BL21 stomach and appetite;
TH15, GB21 forequarter;
A high clinical success rate can be attained in 1-3 sessions at 1-3 day intervals (recent or acute cases) or in 1-10 sessions at 4-7 day intervals in longstanding or chronic cases. However, beginners should study the principles of AP before attempting to use the system.
Treatment effects last longer when Ting points are used. This has been found to be essential in therapy of long-lasting or chronic cases.
There are other methods of point selection (earpoints, hoof points etc) and of point stimulation (magnets, staples, implants, Dermojet, Laser etc) but these methods must be regarded as experimental until adequate documentation and comparative clinical trials are available.
See the Appendix for point locations and references.