Veterinary laser therapy is an innovative treatment that has benefits for pets. Laser treatment can be used in conjunction with or in place of medication to manage pain, inflammation, and wound healing.
Laser therapy helps tissue repair by causing the following:
Endorphin release
Vasodilation, which increases blood flow to bring in oxygen and cells involved in the healing process
Muscle relaxation
Decreased inflammation
Faster healing and repair
The main clinical benefits of laser use in pets include decreased inflammation, decreased pain, and improved wound healing.
Laser therapy is used for many veterinary medical conditions, including:
Chronic arthritis
Surgical wound healing
Reducing the formation of scar tissue
Tendon and ligament injuries
Improving nerve function and nerve regeneration
Traumatic injuries
Speeding the healing of infections
Laser therapy is particularly useful for pets with limited medical treatment options, such as:
Pets with liver disease who cannot take medications
Cats, for whom only a few pain-control medications are approved
Exotic pets for whom medication administration is difficult or impossible
Older pets with diminished organ function
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. Sessions usually last 15 to 30 minutes, with the number of sessions and frequency of treatments dependent on the injury or condition.