Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy is a drug free alternative that relieves pain, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing. Cold laser uses light to treat damaged tissue in a non-invasive manner. As a technician moves the probe over the treatment area pets often feel gentle, soothing warmth, and begin to relax. Even pets with anxiety at the veterinary office grow to love returning for their “spa days.”
Laser therapy works by sending packets of light energy, called photons, deep into tissue. These photons will stimulate the cells to produce more energy; this process can be compared to a plant using sunlight to produce energy. Once stimulated by the photons, the damaged cells begin to produce the energy needed to repair itself and/or divide. This begins a cascade of healing processes including stimulating blood flow and faster collagen production. The laser will also cause the body to release endorphins, a natural pain reliever. Studies show that nerve cell regeneration is also stimulated by laser therapy.
All these effects result in pain relief and faster healing for multiple conditions. Acute injuries (lacerations, sprained muscles, swollen ears, surgical incisions, etc.) can be treated to decrease healing time. Pets with chronic conditions, such as arthritis, will see pain relief and move around easier. Other conditions that can be treated include aural hematomas, lick granulomas, burns, skin rashes, stomatitis, and much more. The laser is so versatile, it is commonly used by professional athletic trainers in the NHL, NFL, MLB, NBA, FIFA, and the Olympics.
The number of treatments needed will vary on the injury or area being treated. Chronic conditions usually begin with an every other day treatment schedule and slowly increase the time between visits. The goal is to find the best maintenance schedule for the pet. During a treatment, a technician will move the probe over the treatment area. Even though the laser does not produce heat, a pet with a dark coat can feel warm to the touch. This is similar to wearing a black t-shirt on a sunny day, dark colors absorb more light from the sun causing the shirt to warm up.
Cold laser therapy is a great technology that provides a drug free alternative to reduce pain, inflammation, and speed the healing process. Our patients respond well and truly enjoy their therapy sessions. Owners enjoy seeing their pets heal faster and feel better. It’s rewarding to see our patient’s response to laser sessions.
Veterinary General is located in Shelby Township, Michigan. We offer traditional and alternative therapies such as Acupuncture, Chinese Herbals, and Cold Laser Therapy. More information can be found at www.veterinarygeneral.com.
