Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Department of Surgery - Anesthesiology and Radiology

Twenty-five Thoroughbred jumper geldings suffered back soreness with poor performance and 5 control horses were checked up by the archived computer data, clinical examination and laboratory analyses of complete blood picture, serum enzymes and serum cortisol level before and after aqua-acupuncture therapy. After aqua-acupuncture therapy; the horses responded by an increase of heart rate (57.85 ± 4.301), body temperature (38.5 ± 0.7), respiration rate (28.333 ± 2.123) and CRT (1.00 ± 0.00). In the 2nd day, a significant decrease in the mean levels of AST and CPK (P=0.001) was detected, in the 4th day, they mimed the level of the 5 controls, and at day 6 showed a significant decrease (P=0.002). The serum cortisol level showed a significant increase at the 6th day of treatment (P=0.013). The blood picture showed significant increases in RBCs, MCV, PLT, WBC, HGB, MCH, MCHC, MPV, PDW, LYMPH, PCT, LPCR (P<0.05) and non-significant changes in HCT, GRAN, MID. The improved blood parameters, enzymes, hormones, and performance progress after cloprostenol-acupuncture therapy proved its effectiveness for treating back soreness in athletic horses

Issued also as CD