Laser/Light Therapy works by providing the energy necessary for injured cells to heal and regenerate, and promotes communication between cells within the nervous system. Just as sunlight causes the chain reaction of photosynthesis and energy production in plant cells, so does laser/light cause a chain reaction of photobiomodulation and energy production in animal cells.
The wavelength, frequency, and power of the laser/light influence the effect of the application on tissue. Different laser/light sources tend to resonate with different organelles within a cell and preferentially enter certain tissue more readily. In addition, the programmed frequency pattern of the laser/light emission can greatly influence cell, nerve and tissue response.
We integrate the use of three different laser/light units in therapy, depending on the need and sensitivity of the patient:
GRT Lite (Gonzalez Rehabilitation Therapy) provides red and infrared light with software programming emission in frequencies especially beneficial for functional neurology and neurological rehabilitation.
Erchonia Class II Veterinary Laser System provides Low Light Laser Therapy (LLLT) with a gentle pervasive interaction in the body through interplay of two 635nm laser sources emitted in bands with unique programmable frequency patterns.
Grady Medical Class IIIB dual laser wands provide localized 810nm laser therapy in either 5 laser or single laser application. The single laser application is especially useful in patients for whom acupuncture would be helpful but the animal will not tolerate the needles. The laser can be applied directly to the acupuncture points.
All units are mobile and able to be used in the field. The therapy speeds healing of wounds, fractures, skin irritations, intervertebral disc pain, and many other conditions. Studies show this therapy can be far more effective in reducing pain in musculoskeletal origins, compared to both nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids. Dr. Dworak also utilizes laser/light therapy to support effectiveness of osteopathic spinal manipulation.
When your pet needs veterinary care, you can rely on our team in Hamilton to provide the latest professional services, including laser therapy for pets. Our team at Animal Health & Healing offers laser therapy for pets of all kinds.
What is Laser Therapy?
The word laser is actually an acronym that stands for light amplification of stimulated emission of radiation. In practical terms, laser therapy has to do with using a focused beam of light to elicit healing in the body. Laser therapy has been successfully used on a variety of afflictions affecting humans. You probably are already aware of situations that involve the use of lasers in medicine. For example, laser light is used to do LASIK surgery, where the cornea of the eye is reshaped to correct vision impairment. Now, laser therapy is also available for your beloved pets.
How Does Laser Therapy Affect Pets?
Laser therapy is therapeutic for your pet’s tissue. The laser light that is absorbed by your pet’s cells has the effect of stimulating electrons and activating cells to promote growth, repair proliferation, and migration.
It’s important to know that the laser light that is used in laser therapy is either red or near infra-red light. This kind of light has a range of wavelengths between 600 and 1070 nanometers. This is the same wavelength that is used in infra-red spas for humans, which have proven to be very therapeutic. Now, your pet can benefit from the same infra-red therapy that you can!
The benefits of laser therapy for pets include:
- Reduced tissue inflammation
- Increased rate of healing and cellular repair
- Relaxation of muscles
- Release of endorphins
- Increased blood flow to promote healing
Our team at Animal Health & Healing will be happy to talk with you about the specific benefits of laser therapy related to your pet’s condition.
What Medical Conditions Can Laser Therapy Treat For Pets?
Laser therapy has been successfully used by our veterinary team for a wide range of pet issues, including:
- Surgical incisions
- Miscellaneous injuries where the skin has been breached
- Tendon and/or ligament injuries
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- Age-related pain and discomfort
How Does Laser Therapy For Pets Work?
Laser therapy treatments only take between 15 and 30 minutes and can be administered in an office visit. There’s no need for hospitalization and no need for you to be separated from your pet for long periods of time.
Are you ready to consider laser therapy for your pet? If so, please contact us today at (406) 218-9510 to learn more or to book your pet’s appointment.