Laser Therapy is the use of specific wavelengths of light to create therapeutic effects. During each laser treatment, laser energy increases circulation, drawing water, oxygen, and nutrients to the damaged area. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, function is restored and pain is relieved.
Laser Therapy is a tool that has no bounds. It can help with a range of issues, starting with:
-Osteoarthritis -Post-Surgical Pain
-Joint Pain -Neck and Back Pain
-Tendinopathies -Hip Dysplasia
-Edema and Congestion -Burns
-Ligament Sprains -Chronic Wounds
-Muscle Strains -Rehabilitation
-Puncture Wounds -Post-Orthopedic Surgical Recovery
-Post Traumatic Injury
During a Laser Therapy session, patients do not require sedation or restraint; the experience is typically pleasant and comforting.
Improvement is often seen after the first visit; however, most patients require several treatments [3-8] for the greatest benefit. Treatments vary in length; most areas requiring 2-8 minutes. A majority of patients exhibit greater comfort and mobility within 12-24 hours after a laser treatment. Your veterinarian will recommend a treatment plan specific to your pet’s condition.
For a growing number of veterinary practices, including Springhurst Animal Hospital, the technology is no longer just the wavelength of the future. It’s a “here and now” tool for managing chronic and acute pain. Springhurst Animal Hospital has the K-Laser, a Class IV Laser. Class IV lasers are about 50 times stronger than their class II predecessors, which had previously achieved mixed results. The class IV therapeutic laser allows for better tissue penetration in a shorter amount of time. Class IV laser reduces inflammation, improves blood flow and releases natural endorphins helping not only chronic but acute pain.
We have quickly incorporated the technology into our pain management practice, starting with our osteoarthritis patients. Now we use it with post operative patients to help “kick start” healing, with acupuncture points on patients intolerant of needle placement, and to alleviate pain in one of the most challenging areas, treating core muscles that help stabilize the spine.
There are a certain percentage of geriatric patients that can’t take NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs) or other medications due to complications of the liver and kidneys. Laser Therapy offers an alterative that will not complicate other systemic diseases. Seeing patients go from possible euthanasia to functioning again restores smiles to clients, as well as lifting the spirits of our staff members. The best outcome is seeing suffering subside. This is one of the best things you can do for elderly animals, as it restores them to a level of comfort. It’s not about extending their lives but about improving the quality of their lives.
Clients have said “It is an absolutely miraculous machine!” and “I’m a true believer”. We have also had clients ask if we do “humans”. While we don’t offer the service to people, we are thrilled at the results we are seeing with our patients. We have had dogs that have been barely able to walk, then after a number of treatments, they’re acting like puppies, going to get their toys, and wanting to play again. Owners have stated that they had regained a family member.
K-Laser Veterinary Mechanism Video from K-LaserUSA on Vimeo.