Acupuncture for Axial Stiffness in Horses by a Vet – 2025 Study Review & Non-Drug Therapy Insights 🐎🪡
In this article
Acupuncture for Axial Stiffness in Horses by a Vet – 2025 Study Review & Non-Drug Therapy Insights 🐎🪡
By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc
Introduction
Acupuncture has long been used in veterinary medicine, though its role in equine performance management has been debated. In 2025, new research supports the idea that acupuncture can be an effective non-pharmacological therapy for horses experiencing axial stiffness—particularly those in performance disciplines like steeplechase racing. The results offer new hope for horses with back stiffness and restricted spinal mobility.
What Is Axial Stiffness? 🧠🦴
- The axial skeleton includes the skull, spine, ribs, and sternum
- Axial stiffness refers to a reduced ability to rotate or flex around the spine
- It may cause:
- Limited dorsal flexibility (arching and bending of the back)
- Decreased range of motion
- Resistance under saddle
The 2023 Study at a Glance 📊
- Published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Subjects: 12 steeplechase horses showing axial stiffness in training
- 6 horses received acupuncture
- 6 horses served as untreated controls
Study Design
- Riders and trainers assessed locomotion before and after treatment using standardized questionnaires
- Dorsal flexibility was measured at the trot by experienced clinicians
- Free jumping performance at the canter and trot was evaluated
- Motion capture technology (internal measurement units) was used for objective analysis
Results ✅
- Horses receiving acupuncture showed greater improvement in flexibility and locomotion at days 7 and 14
- Clinician assessment of dorsal flexibility was significantly better in the acupuncture group
- Subjective evaluations were supported by objective motion data during free jumping
What It Means for Equine Athletes 🐴
- Back flexibility is crucial for performance, especially in jumpers, dressage horses, and steeplechasers
- Axial stiffness can cause:
- Uneven stride
- Reduced impulsion
- Poor saddle fit due to muscle atrophy
- Acupuncture may improve comfort and performance without relying on medications
Limitations of the Study 📉
- Small sample size (12 horses) – limits generalizability
- Short study duration – long-term effects not assessed
- More large-scale, blinded studies are needed to validate findings
How Acupuncture Works in Horses 🪡
- Involves placing needles at specific points to stimulate:
- Blood flow
- Nerve signaling
- Muscle relaxation
- Can release endorphins and natural anti-inflammatory agents
- May improve joint mobility and pain tolerance
Conditions That May Benefit from Acupuncture 🧘♂️
- Axial stiffness and poor flexibility
- Muscle soreness and back pain
- Navicular pain and laminitis
- Chronic lameness
- Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., ulcers, colic support)
Case Example: Jumper with Stiff Back and Hollow Frame
- 10-year-old jumper showing reluctance to round under saddle
- Diagnosed with mild axial stiffness and dorsal tightness
- Received 3 acupuncture sessions over 2 weeks
- Trainers noted improved flexibility and smoother transitions
- Horse moved more forward and accepted contact with less resistance
FAQs About Acupuncture in Horses
Q: Is acupuncture safe for horses?
A: Yes, when performed by a licensed veterinarian trained in acupuncture. Most horses tolerate it well.
Q: How quickly does it work?
A: Some horses show improvement after 1–2 sessions. Others may need 3–5 treatments for full effect.
Q: Will insurance cover equine acupuncture?
A: Some equine health policies include coverage for complementary therapies—check with your provider.
Conclusion
In 2025, acupuncture is earning renewed respect as a safe, non-drug tool to support musculoskeletal health and performance in horses. The latest research suggests it may effectively improve axial stiffness and dorsal flexibility, especially in equine athletes like steeplechasers and jumpers. While more large-scale studies are needed, the results so far are promising and support broader use of acupuncture in equine therapy plans.
Curious whether acupuncture might help your horse? Visit AskAVet.com or download our app 📱 to consult with Dr Duncan Houston about treatment options for stiffness, pain, or performance recovery. 🩺🐴
