Low level laser therapy (cold laser therapy) can be used by veterinarians to help animals heal more quickly from surgery, after a traumatic injury or speed healing of chronic conditions. While this procedure was developed decades ago it has gained popularity and acceptance in the field of veterinary medicine during the last several years.
Low level laser therapy is very different than lasers used in surgery. Laser therapy involves using light to stimulate the body’s own metabolism to speed up healing. The light interacts with mitochondria (the cell’s engine) to increase production of ATP; this is the substance that the body uses for energy. Laser therapy speeds up the metabolism, and increases the blood flow and drainage of lymphatic fluid in the area that is swollen or needs to heal.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive method that can be used be itself or added to other treatment options. There are generally no side effects and it is a good way to stimulate the body to heal rather than administering additional medications. This will allow the pet’s body to hear easier and enable your pet a quicker return to a normal lifestyle.
Conditions that can be treated by laser therapy:
- Hot Spots
- Osteoarthritis
- Muscle or Soft Tissue Injuries
- Cruciate Ligament Tears
- Hip Dysplasia
- Ear Hematomas
- Intervertebral Disc Disease
- Lick Granulomas
- Abdominal Pain
- Wounds
- Degloving Injuries
- Severe Skin Infections
- Post-operative Incisions/Swelling
- Nerve Pain
- Acute Trauma