Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy (also referred to as low-level laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy) is a therapeutic treatment that has become increasingly popular for helping pets recover from injury and illness. It is a painless application of healing light.

Therapeutic lasers use light waves of a specific wavelength to cause photobiomodulation, or the alteration of cellular and tissue physiology. Light absorbed by cellular components stimulates electrons and activates cells to promote growth, proliferation, migration, and repair.

During a treatment session, the handheld laser wand is slowly moved back and forth over the damaged tissue, producing a warm, pleasant sensation that most pets seem to enjoy and find relaxing.

The laser beam stimulates the manufacture of a substance called adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the “fuel” cells need to repair and regenerate themselves; the more fuel they have, the more quickly and thoroughly they can heal injured tissues. The energy from the laser also improves circulation in the tissues and reduces inflammation so that healing can begin. This makes veterinary laser therapy a great tool for relieving chronic pain in pets that can’t or shouldn’t receive heavy painkillers. Cold laser therapy may be prescribed for pets suffering from:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Tendonitis
  • Sprain injuries
  • Strained muscles
  • Nerve damage
  • Degenerative disc and joint disease
  • Surface wounds from recent injuries or surgical incisions
  • Fracture healing

The effects of cold laser treatments for dogs are cumulative. To achieve optimal results, treatments should be completed as a series. Treatment time varies from patient to patient depending on how chronic the condition is and the depth the laser light needs to reach to be effective.