Front Hoof Thermographic Imaging Change After Electro-acupuncture in Performance Horses

The present study investigated whether electro-acupuncture (EAP) can improve front hoof thermal asymmetry in horses as detected by front hoof thermography imaging. Thirty-five client-owned horses that presented for traditional Chinese veterinary medicine (TCVM) exam and treatment for poor performance were enrolled in the study. After 20 minutes of stall rest, bilateral front hoof thermography (pre-EAP) was performed in a designated stall. This was followed by the TCVM exam and 30 minutes of EAP treatment. Immediately afterwards, bilateral front hoof thermography (post-EAP treatment) was repeated. From each thermal image, the mean temperature of the dorsal hoof surface was calculated. Horses were categorized into two groups based on the pre-EAP hoof temperature difference between the front hooves. Horses with a temperature difference greater than 1 °F between the front feet were placed in Group A; otherwise in Group B. The data showed that Group A (n=14) had a mean between-hoof temperature difference that changed/reduced significantly (p=0.029) after EAP treatment when compared to pre-EAP. In Group B (n=21), the changes were not significant (p=0.848). Furthermore, the mean temperature change in Group A was significantly greater than that in Group B (p=0.006). Study findings demonstrated that EAP treatment facilitates return of symmetric front hoof surface thermal distribution in horses with asymmetric thermal distribution greater than 1 °F temperature difference between front hooves.