What is Cold Laser Therapy:
Cold laser, also called Low Light Laser Therapy, has been used since the 1960s to provide pain relief and accelerate healing. In general, cold laser therapy has fewer side effects than traditional medications that are used to treat the same conditions (i.e. steroids, pain medications and anti-inflammatories).
Cold laser therapy is approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Therefore, there are many clinical studies showing the benefits as a therapy. Its use has been demonstrated to cause a 40-95% drop in nerve pain. It reduces morning pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. Additionally, cold laser therapy can offer benefits for acute and chronic musculoskeletal pain and greatly accelerates wound healing.
How Does it Work?
Cold laser therapy works by sending photons, or packets of light energy, deep into tissue to the source of pain, inflammation or injury. These photons are absorbed within the mitochondria of cells and induce a chemical change called “photo-bio-modulation.” This light energy then inspires the production of ATP in the cell. ATP is the fuel cells need for repair and rejuvenation. Impaired or injured cells do not make ATP at this optimum rate. Increased ATP production leads to healthier cells, healthier tissue and healthier animals.
What’s Involved with Treating My Pet?
The laser is delivered through a non-invasive handpiece to treat the affected area. There are no known side effects with this treatment, and you cannot “over-dose” your pet with the laser. Hair/fur does not need to be clipped. Eye protection will be worn by anyone in close proximity to the laser. Your veterinarian will move the probe over the area of treatment to assure the laser is being delivered to the area which needs improvement. Most animals find the laser to be relaxing and feel immediate pain relief.
How Long Does Treatment Take?
Treatment protocols are unique to each patient and condition. Therefore, treatments will vary in time, complexity and cost. For some chronic problems (i.e. arthritis) multiple joints and multiple sessions will be needed. Laser therapy can also be used as a complementary adjunct to other treatment plans. You will likely see relief after the first treatment. For example-better mobility for joint conditions, drying and healing of dermatological issues, faster healing for wounds and incisions, or your pet may just seem more relaxed comfortable. For some conditions, a series of treatments may be necessary before you see results due to the complexity of the condition. Each animal is different, and treatments are unique for your pet’s specific needs.
What Can Be Treated with Laser Therapy?
If your pet is feeling pain, has inflammation or a wound, the laser is a sterile, pain/surgery/drug-free treatment. Whether your animal is rehabilitating from trauma or injury, healing from wounds, or simply aging, cold laser has been shown to provide pain relief and speed healing.
