Cold Laser Therapy

What is cold laser therapy?

Often called low-level laser therapy, cold laser therapy is a relatively new concept in veterinary medicine that is being used to treat pets with arthritis, tendon or soft tissue trauma and to promote wound healing. Cold laser therapy was first used on humans more than 40 years ago.

The laser increases blood flow by dilating blood vessels and encouraging new capillaries to form. The laser also opens lymph vessels. Combined, these effects speed healing by facilitating the delivery of needed nutrients and oxygen and removing damaged cells and their by products.

Is cold laser therapy painful?

Not at all. Most pets find laser therapy relaxing and tend to enjoy the treatment.

The veterinarian does not even need to shave the area in order for the treatment to be effective. Cold laser therapy can be applied every day with no side effects.

How does cold laser therapy work?

The procedure is based on the idea that light, programmed to a specific wavelength, is absorbed into the cells. The process, known as photo-biotherapy, stimulates protein synthesis and cell metabolism, which improves cell health and functionality.

Cold laser therapy is a noninvasive procedure that uses light to stimulate cell regeneration and increase blood circulation, reduced pain signals and decreasing nerve sensitivity. The procedure also releases endorphins, or natural painkillers. The only pets we do not recommend having cold laser therapy for are those with cancer since the device can stimulate blood flow to cancer cells.

For small pets, the treatment can takes less than 10 minutes. For larger pets, the treatment can take up to 25 minutes. It usually requires 4-5 regularly scheduled treatments to begin seeing significant results.

What types of results can I expect after my pet’s cold laser treatments?

Around 70% of pet owners report that their pet’s pain and suffering is significantly reduced while using cold laser therapy. Cold laser therapy is not a cure for joint disease. The therapy is meant to improve quality of life by treating the symptoms of joint disorders. After laser therapy, pet owners might see their pets go upstairs more often, play with a ball they have not touched in months or return to the bed or couch for their nightly snuggle with family members. When pets have better mobility and less pain, medications can often be reduced.

How do I get my pet started with cold laser treatments?

A physical rehabilitation exam is require before treatment begins. This makes sure that your pet is not suffering from injuries or underlying conditions that need to be addressed. The veterinarian will ask about your pet’s lifestyle and will need your pet’s medical records in order to provide the most through evaluation. Your pet’s first therapy session is included in the cost of the rehabilitation exam.

Through the benefits of physical rehabilitation therapies like cold laser and by avoiding obesity, pets can live a much more active and pain free life.