Effectiveness of acupuncture for equine laminitis: Systematic review and meta-analysis.
Authors: Fikri, Purnomo, Maslamama, Purnama
Journal: Veterinary world
Summary
# Acupuncture for Equine Laminitis: Systematic Review Summary Despite two decades of clinical application, acupuncture's efficacy in treating equine laminitis has remained largely unsubstantiated by rigorous evidence synthesis. Fikri and colleagues conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of seven rigorously selected studies from major databases to establish whether acupuncture meaningfully improves outcomes in laminitic horses. The analysis revealed a 2.25-fold increased odds of clinical improvement with acupuncture treatment (95% CI = 1.167–4.355), alongside statistically significant reductions in lameness scores averaging 5.01 points (95% CI = –8.094 to –1.923). A treatment protocol of twice-weekly sessions over four consecutive weeks emerged as the evidence-supported dosing schedule. For equine practitioners incorporating acupuncture into laminitis management, these findings provide quantifiable support for the modality's adjunctive value, though results suggest acupuncture functions optimally as part of a multimodal approach rather than monotherapy; the evidence base also supports exploration of technique variations including electroacupuncture and aqua-acupuncture, though additional comparative trials would strengthen clinical decision-making in this area.
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Practical Takeaways
- •Acupuncture appears moderately effective for laminitis management and should be considered as a complementary treatment option alongside conventional therapies
- •A structured protocol of twice-weekly treatments over 4 weeks is supported by evidence and provides a practical timeframe for practitioners
- •Multiple acupuncture techniques are available, allowing practitioners to select methods based on individual horse circumstances and facility capabilities
Key Findings
- •Acupuncture improves outcomes in horses with laminitis (Odds Ratio = 2.254; 95% CI = 1.167-4.355)
- •Acupuncture has a favorable effect on lameness scores with mean difference of -5.008 (95% CI = -8.094 to -1.923)
- •Twice-weekly acupuncture for 4 consecutive weeks can ameliorate lameness scores and improve recovery potential
- •Multiple acupuncture modalities including dry needling, hemo-acupuncture, aqua-acupuncture, and electroacupuncture show therapeutic benefit