Pet Laser Therapy: Effective, Noninvasive Pain Management

Pet laser therapy is an exciting healing modality used by veterinarians to treat injuries, expedite surgical recoveries, and reduce pain. Also called photobiomodulation, laser therapy has been embraced as an effective, noninvasive, painless treatment option. Keep reading to learn more about this complement therapy and its benefits.

What is Pet Laser Therapy?

Laser therapy is the use of wavelengths of light to stimulate cells and increase blood flow to a targeted area. This has many therapeutic benefits. As circulation is increased, so too are oxygen levels, endorphins, and nutrients, all of which aid in reducing inflammation and pain. It also promotes faster healing and recovery.

Pet laser therapy essentially creates a heightened state among the cells of the body. The stronger the laser (such as with the recently FDA-approved Class VI laser), the more impactful it can be.

Some of the conditions for which we might recommend laser therapy include:

• Wound and injury healing
• Post-surgical healing and pain management
• Pain management and increased mobility for degenerative joint conditions
• Recovery from bacterial or viral infections, such as ear infections
• Recovery from fractures
• Reduced inflammation associated with skin conditions and allergies

Keep in mind, veterinary medicine is just now skimming the surface of what this treatment may be capable of addressing. As more studies are conducted, we hope its efficacy on a number of conditions will be evaluated.

What to Expect During a Session

An initial consultation will involve a thorough physical exam, relevant diagnostics, a review of medical history, and a discussion of your pet’s recovery goals. From there, a treatment plan would be developed that includes a recommended number of laser therapy sessions, as well as any other supportive therapies.

Sessions typically last 10-20 minutes. Many pets seem to relax, as the laser produces a warm, soothing sensation. You’re also welcome to come in with your pet, which can be comforting to both of you. Most pet patients experience improvement after the first few sessions of laser therapy.

The Advantages of Laser Therapy

After trying laser therapy, most pet guardians report that their companion animals seem happier, more energetic, and in better overall condition. Some clinical findings also reveal the following benefits of laser treatments:

• Faster recovery times
• Accelerated tissue repair and growth
• Decreased pain
• Reduced inflammation
• Stimulation of the development of blood vessels
• Decreased blood pressure
• Improved nerve function
• Minimal scarring
• Strengthened immunity
• Enhanced muscle development

The potential of pet laser therapy is truly exciting, and we look forward to keeping you informed about any advances made in the use of this technology.

If you pet has recently undergone surgery, sustained an injury, or has a chronic, painful condition, we invite you to come in for a consultation. Achieving the best possible quality of life is our goal, and pet laser therapy has done wonders for many pet patients.

Please call us for more information.