H istorically, true avian acupuncture points from ancient Chinese texts illustrate only a relatively few points for use on domestic fowl. Many of these avian acupuncture points are located on the chickens tongue, wattle and combs-obviously not present or feasible in our psittacine pets. Therefore many of the acupuncture points used on birds are modifications of traditional points used in mammals. The birds unique anatomy must be completely understood in order to locate and manipulate these mammalian points. The proper placement of the needles enables the body to restore itself to a condition of healthy balance and wellness.
Acupuncture acts by balancing the body and helping it to return to a state of homeostasis.
E xperimental and clinical evidence has shown that acupuncture not only inhibits pain but can also have direct effects on circulation, blood pressure, the immune system, and the production of blood cells. I n avian medicine, acupuncture has shown to have a beneficial effect on acute as well as chronic problems. Feather picking, egg binding, sinusitis, as well as emergency medicine are just a few areas where acupuncture has been used in birds. S ince acupuncture is a methodology to maintain balance and health of a bird, its use has numerous possibilities. As more and more cases are recorded, documented and reported in the literature, acupuncture popularity will continue to increase.