The twitch in horses: a variant of acupuncture.

This research study investigates the twitch procedure in horses, suggesting it acts similarly to acupuncture by effectively mitigating pain response through the involvement of endorphin systems.

Overview of the Study

• This study is primarily centered around understanding the effect and mechanism of the twitch procedure in horses, comparing it with the principles of acupuncture.
• Twitching involves holding or pressing a horse’s upper lip or nose, often using a device known as a twitch. It is traditionally used to calm horses during potentially distressing procedures.
• The researchers used pain-inducing stimuli to evaluate the impact of the twitch on the horses’ heart rate and overall reaction to the stimuli.

Role of Endorphin Systems

• The study suggests that endorphin systems in horse bodies play a significant role in the twitch procedure’s effectiveness. Endorphins are chemicals produced by the body to relieve stress and pain. They function similarly to a class of drugs known as opioids.
• The researchers found that the effect of the twitch was blocked by naloxone, a medication used to counter the effects of opioids, which further indicates the involvement of endorphins in the twitch mechanism.
• The study also noted an increase in plasma concentrations of immunoreactive beta-endorphin—a type of endorphin—following the application of the twitch.

Comparisons with Acupuncture

• The researchers suggest that the twitch procedure’s mode of action is not adequately explained by the prevailing theory of divertive pain, where pain is alleviated by drawing attention to a different area. Instead, they propose a resemblance to classical acupuncture.
• Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine practice, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue to improve blood flow and activate the body’s natural painkillers.
• Like acupuncture, the twitch procedure appears to trigger the release of endorphins, mitigating pain responses in horses. Hence, the study points to possible connections and parallels between the two processes.