What is Laser Therapy?

Laser therapy is the use of specific wavelengths of light (red and infrared light) to achieve therapeutic effects. The goals of laser therapy include faster healing time, decreased pain, improved circulation and decreased inflammation. Laser therapy is a fairly new treatment modality in the United States, but has been widely used in Europe since the 1970s by physical therapists, nurses and doctors. Now, after FDA clearance in 2002, laser therapy is being used extensively in the United States in both the medical and veterinary medical fields.

Has laser therapy’s effectiveness been documented scientifically?

Yes, there are thousands of published studies that demonstrate the clinical effectiveness of laser therapy. Among these, there are more than one hundred rigorously-controlled scientific studies that document the effectiveness of laser therapy for treating many clinical conditions.

What are the effects of laser therapy on body cells?

During laser treatment, the infrared laser light interacts with tissues on a cellular level. Tiny particles of light called photons activate the mitochondria, which are the “powerhouses” of body cells. This leads to an increase in metabolic activity within the cell, improving the transport of nutrients across the cell membrane. This then initiates the increased production of cellular energy called ATP and thus a cascade of beneficial effects. Ultimately, laser therapy leads to increased cell function, health and healing.

What do these changes mean therapeutically for my pet?

During each treatment, laser energy increases circulation, by causing water, oxygen and nutrients to go to damaged areas of the body, even in chronic conditions. This change creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain.

What should I expect?

There is no sedation or restraint required and the experience is usually pleasant and comforting to most pets. Most pets do not need to have any hair clipped or any special preparation for treatment.

Although improvement is often seen after the first visit, most patients require several treatments (between 3-8 treatments, and sometimes more) for the greatest benefit to be seen. This is due to a cumulative effect that laser therapy has on affected areas of the body. An example of a treatment plan:

o Every other day for one week (3 treatments)

o Twice the second week (2 treatments)

o Once the third week (1 treatment)

o Boosters as needed (often monthly or every few months)

Treatments are customized for your pet and vary in length depending on the affected area(s). Most treatments take between 2-8 minutes. A majority of patients exhibit greater comfort and mobility within 12-24 hours after a laser treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does laser therapy hurt? What does a treatment feel like?

There is little to no sensation during treatment. Occasionally, the patient may feel a mild, soothing, warm or tingling feeling. Areas of pain or inflammation may be sensitive briefly before pain reduction.

Are there any side effects or associated risks that I should be aware of?

During more than twenty years of use by human healthcare providers, very few side effects have been reported. Occasionally, some old injuries or pain syndromes may feel aggravated for a few days, due to the healing response being more active following treatment. This may be evident in your pet as a mild sleepiness or stiffness.

How long does each treatment take?

Most treatments take only 3 to 8 minutes, depending on the size of the area that is being treated.

How often should my pet be treated and how many treatments are required?

Most acute conditions may be treated daily or every other day, especially if they are accompanied by significant pain or discomfort. More chronic problems respond better when treatments are received two to three times a week, tapering to once every week or two (or perhaps monthly) as improvement is seen. The number of treatments required depends of the nature of the particular condition being treated. For many acute conditions, 1-2 treatments may be sufficient. Conditions of a more chronic nature may require 5-8 (or more) treatments. Some conditions may require ongoing periodic care to control pain.

How long until results are noticeable?

Your pet may feel improvement in their condition (pain reduction especially) after the first treatment. Sometimes, it may take a few treatments (often 4-5 treatments in chronic conditions) until a noticeable effect is seen. Each treatment is cumulative and is helping with the healing process and pain management.

Can laser therapy be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment?

Yes, laser therapy is often used with other forms of pain management and physical therapy. Other treatment modalities are complementary, and can be used with laser therapy to help increase the effectiveness of treatment.

What are the costs associated with laser treatment?

We currently are offering packages of 6 laser treatments, for most chronic conditions that need treatment. We also offer individual treatments. Please ask us for pricing and scheduling information.