What is cold laser therapy?
Over the years veterinary science has made enormous progress in providing relief for pets experiencing pain due to injuries or illness.
Veterinary cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a cutting-edge technique that has gained traction in recent years as an alternative or complement to traditional medications.
Veterinary cold laser therapy involves the application of low-level lasers to specific parts of your pet's body, to stimulate cellular activity and promote healing. Unlike surgical or cutting lasers that you may be familiar with, cold lasers do not generate heat and are non-invasive, making them a gentle option for treating various conditions in pets.
How does cold laser therapy work?
Laser therapy for pets works through a process called photobiomodulation. When the laser's light energy interacts with individual cells, it triggers a series of biochemical reactions that lead to:
- A beneficial interaction with inflammatory cells that stimulates the release of nitric oxide, a molecule that plays a crucial role in widening blood vessels and improving blood flow. Enhanced circulation helps to remove inflammatory mediators, reduces swelling, and promotes the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the affected area.
- Increased cellular repair triggered by the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a molecule responsible for providing energy to the cells. With increased ATP production, the cells have more energy to carry out their functions, including repairing damaged tissues and promoting cellular regeneration.
- The release of endorphins, which are the body's natural pain-relieving compounds. Endorphins help reduce the perception of pain and enhance your pet's overall comfort.
What conditions can cold laser therapy be used for in dogs?
Whether used as a complementary approach alongside traditional treatments or as an alternative to medication, veterinary cold laser therapy offers a non-invasive, gentle, and often well-tolerated solution for pets dealing with discomfort, inflammation, and the need for enhanced healing. With its ability to reduce inflammation, accelerate healing and relieve pain there are countless conditions that can be treated with veterinary cold laser therapy.
Some of the most common are:
- Arthritis,
- Muscle strains
- Post-operative discomfort
- Skin disorders
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Orthopedic injuries
- Lick granulomas, hot spots
What are the benefits of cold laser therapy for dogs?
For many dogs it appears cold laser therapy does help them feel better. Evidence suggests that these treatments can be very effective for pets. The veterinary industry has deemed pet laser therapy both safe and effective.
We often use this gentle therapy to supplement other treatment options to give our pet patients improved outcomes.
Some ways that cold therapy is believed to help improve dog health are:
- Enhance circulation
- Decrease nerve sensitivity
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Speed the healing process
Laser therapy does not have any known negative side effects, can be used in conjunction with any medications your dog may be on, and no sedation is required. We also do not need to clip or shave the area being treated.
Are cold laser treatments painful for dogs?
Provided the veterinarian performing the treatment is well-trained and experienced in administering laser therapy and the treatment is performed correctly, there should be no pain involved for your dog.
In fact, when the vet waves a handheld laser wand back and forth over injured tissue, this seems to produce a pleasant sensation that most pets seem to find soothing or relaxing.
During a cold laser session, all veterinary staff and patients must wear protective goggles, as laser beams directed at an eye are capable of causing permanent damage to both human and canine retinas.
Can laser therapy be used instead of medications?
Veterinary cold laser therapy can be used as an alternative to medications in certain cases, but it ultimately depends on your pet's specific condition and the severity of the issue.
While cold laser therapy has shown promising results in managing pain, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing, it may not completely replace medications for more serious conditions or situations requiring immediate relief.
In many cases, veterinarians recommend cold laser therapy in conjunction with medications as a way to enhance the pet's overall treatment plan and minimize the need for high doses or prolonged use of drugs.
How often should my dog have cold laser therapy?
Over time, the effects of cold laser therapy are cumulative. For best results, treatments should be completed at the frequency recommended by your veterinarian.
Based on the injury or condition being treated your vet may recommend sessions a few times a week, once a week, or once every couple of weeks. Often treatment begins with several times a week and gradually reduces in frequency.
How long does each cold laser treatment take?
The length of sessions varies depending on the area being treated and how much energy is being delivered through the laser. A typical laser therapy session lasts between 5 and 20 minutes.
Before treatment, we will perform a full physical exam, in addition to x-rays if required, to determine whether cold laser therapy is the right treatment option for your pet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.