www.PetPages.com 7
What is acupuncture and
how does it work?
Acupuncture is the act of placing
points. Dr. Joy Harkins at Gahanna
Animal Hospital utilizes a contemporary
neuroanatomical approach
that needle placement is guided by
her detailed knowledge of veterinary
anatomy and neurology.
Acupuncture does more than relieve
pain. How it works depends
on what condition one is treating
and which points are utilized. Acupuncture increases circulation,
killing hormones, relieves muscle spasms, stimulates nerves and
stimulates the immune system.
Acupuncture is used to treat many conditions; musculoskeletal
problems, such as, hip dysplasia and arthritis, paralysis, asthma and
upper respiratory infections, wound healing, urinary and gastrointestinal
problems, and even dry eye and corneal ulcers. The treatment
provides better control of chronic diseases, general wellness through
preventative medicine, and speeds healing time and provides pain
control post operatively.
Acupuncture is one of the safest therapies utilized if practiced by a
animal’s condition may deteriorate temporarily before improving but
the phenomenon typically resolves in 24-48 hours. Because acupuncture
balances the body’s own system of healing and no chemicals are
administered, complications rarely, if ever, develop.
Acupuncture is performed with sterilized single-use thin stainless
steel needles. There is occasionally a brief moment of sensitivity as
the needle penetrates the skin in certain sensitive areas. Once the
needles are in place, most animals relax and may even fall asleep
during treatment.
Treatment may last from 2 minutes to 30 minutes depending upon
the condition treated and the method employed. Patients are often
treated 1-3 times a week for 4-6 weeks. A positive response is often
upon the condition treated.
www.ColumbusPetPages.net 7
ANIMAL HOSPITALS
www.ColumbusPetPages.net 7
Gahanna Animal Hospital
www.gahannaanimalhospital.org
/www.ColumbusPetPages.net
/www.gahannaanimalhospital.org