Services

Acupuncture

Every acupuncture treatment is preceded by a full palpation and motion exam to tailor treatment to the individual needs of your equine companion. The goal of acupuncture treatments is to restore balance and stimulate healing. On a physiologic level, needle stimulation sends signals to the spinal cord and brainstem, decreasing the pain response and increasing blood flow to the stimulated area. It also causes tissue relaxation (muscle and fascia). Acupuncture treatments can be used to treat laminitis, allergies, lameness, musculoskeletal soreness, nerve damage/muscle atrophy, colic, respiratory issues, and more. Active sport horses competing at peak performance, rehabbing animals, and retired horses alike benefit from acupuncture treatment. Dr. Vardell utilizes both dry needling and electrical stimulation.

Medical Manipulation

Veterinary medical manipulation, similar to chiropractic treatments offered for humans, restores and maintains normal range of motion. By relieving restrictions, adjustments help your horse use their bodies correctly; encouraging balanced, biomechanically correct movement patterns and preventing injury.  

For more information on acupuncture and chiropractic services, please see the following linked article by the AAEP. http://aaep.org/horsehealth/veterinary-acupuncture-and-chiropractic-what-when-who

Riverbend Equine recognizes that the above listed treatments can be used as stand-alone treatments in many cases, but also serve as extremely effective modalities when paired with traditional diagnostics and treatment in order to treat the whole horse. As such, we encourage you to establish and maintain a good relationship with your primary care veterinarian. Dr. Vardell looks forward to working collaboratively with your entire team to provide the best care for your equine companion.

Laser Therapy

Class IV regenerative laser therapy (photobiomodulation) is a non-invasive treatment modality aimed at decreasing inflammation, reducing pain, and speeding tissue healing (including wounds or post-operative incisions). Laser therapy is part of a multi-modal approach to pain management and rehabilitation. It is applied frequently for management of sports injuries such as tendon, ligament, or muscle injury. It can also be used for managing chronic pain such as back and neck pain or osteoarthritis. Photobiomodulation refers to the effect laser therapy has on the cells and tissue, modulating cell behaviors and enhancing the process of tissue repair. This happens through inducing cell proliferation and enhanced stem cell differentiation. 

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/news/20190104/regenerative-laser-therapy-proves-beneficial-equine-athletes-cornell-ruffian-equine-specialists

Relief Work

Dr. Vardell is pleased to offer relief/contract services to practices needing support during times of growth or transition. Practice owners may contact her directly to determine availability. Currently licensed in VA and MD.