Veterinary Laser Therapy
Laser Therapy Services
Veterinary Laser Therapy is an underused treatment modality that can be very beneficial for pets that suffer from pain. It can help reduce inflammation, replenish ATP (the energy molecule in the body), and decrease the transmission of pain.
Several studies have demonstrated that low-level light (LLLT) can help treat skin conditions like lick granuloma and promote healing in wounds. It also helps to reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis.
At Winnetka Animal Hospital, our doctors and staff are well-trained in providing veterinary laser therapy treatments. Set up a consultation today to learn if this treatment is appropriate for your pet.
WHAT IS LASER THERAPY?
Veterinary Laser therapy is an emerging veterinary treatment that aids the body’s natural healing process, decreases healing time, alleviates pain and inflammation, and helps to delay the progression of a disease.
The therapeutic light generated by a laser is absorbed by tissue, creating both photothermal and photochemical reactions to trigger biochemical responses in the cells, which stimulates regeneration and pain relief.
It is a non-invasive, safe, and effective alternative to drugs or surgery.
LLLT or low-level laser therapy sometimes referred to as photobiomodulation (PBM) is the application of low-intensity light with wavelengths in the red to near-infrared spectrum.
LLLT is used to treat a variety of conditions including muscle and joint pain, wounds, arthritis, decubital ulcers, and more. It has been shown to reduce pain, increase blood flow and accelerate wound healing.
HOW DOES LASER THERAPY WORK?
Veterinary laser therapy (also known as Photobiomodulation or PBM) uses light energy to reduce pain and inflammation, accelerate healing, and promote tissue regeneration. This doctor-prescribed, technician-driven treatment method is a non-invasive, drug and surgery-free way to treat many conditions.
Veterinary Laser therapy reduces pain by altering the chemistry of your pet’s cells, which causes an increase in the body’s natural endorphins. It also reduces swelling, increases blood flow to the area, and stimulates the production of ATP, a key chemical in cell repair and regeneration.
Laser therapy is safe for most dogs and can be used in conjunction with acupuncture and massage therapy. It is especially effective for chronic pain and injuries.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN LASER THERAPY TREAT?
Veterinary Laser therapy is a safe, non-invasive, drug and surgery-free treatment that has been scientifically proven to decrease inflammation, promote healing and reduce pain. It can be used for a variety of painful conditions, including sprains and strains, arthritis, back disc problems, and muscular-skeletal abnormalities.
The treatment process involves passing a laser wand over a wound or inflamed area to transmit energy into tissues that need healing. This stimulates pain relief and accelerates the healing process by reducing inflammation, opening blood vessels, and activating the lymphatic drainage system.
Veterinary laser therapy may also be used to help rehabilitate a dog after surgery. However, it shouldn’t be used over a tumor site or the uterus of a pregnant dog as it could accelerate cancer growth.
HOW LONG DOES LASER THERAPY TAKE?
Veterinary Laser Therapy for Pets is a painless, non-invasive treatment that’s safe and effective for most pets. Most animals enjoy the experience and find it very relaxing.
The duration of a treatment session will vary depending on the size of the treatment area and the condition being treated. Typically, a smaller dog only getting one area treated may only require 5 to 10 minutes, while a larger dog with multiple joints affected could need 45 minutes.
Treatments are administered by a veterinarian with training in therapeutic laser use. During a laser session, your veterinarian will gently move the handheld laser wand over the injured area.
CAN LASER THERAPY BE USED AT HOME?
Veterinary Laser therapy is an FDA-approved, painless medical procedure that can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions and injuries. It can help heal tissue, reduce inflammation, and pain, and promote joint mobility.
Veterinary clinicians are trained to use laser therapy to treat chronic arthritis, surgical incisions, and tendon and ligament injuries. It can also be used to help with ear infections and other painful conditions that recur or become chronic.
Veterinary-grade cold laser devices are available for purchase for home use. These are Class 2 lasers that direct light to interact with cells in the body to perform specific tasks such as reducing inflammation and edema, reducing, or eliminating pain for a time, and speeding up wound closure.