What is Laser Therapy?
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) uses laser light to alter cellular function. A focused beam of laser light is directed into an area of damaged or painful tissue to stimulate the body’s response, relieve pain, and increase healing.
Laser light penetrates deeply into the body, where it transfers energy into the tissue. Specific wavelengths of light have been shown to dilate blood vessels, increasing oxygen delivery, and also to increase the rate of absorption and use of oxygen by the cells.
Who can benefit from Laser Therapy?
LLLT has been shown to help with a variety of conditions. At PetPT we use this modality primarily for pain management. Both acute and chronic pain respond well to laser therapy, and commonly treated conditions include muscle pain, disc (spinal) pain, arthritis, nerve injury, and postoperative pain management.
How often should it be done?
A typical course of treatment requires 4-6 visits, but frequency of treatment depends on the condition being treated and how long the condition has been present. There is usually noticeable improvement after the first session, but the effects are cumulative and the frequency of treatment can be decreased as the condition improves. Chronic conditions can benefit from periodic maintenance treatments.
Are there any side effects?
Laser therapy is very safe when performed by a trained therapist. Class IV lasers feel warm at certain wavelengths, and the sensation can (rarely) be unpleasant for dogs with hyperesthesia or allodynia (altered nerve function).