In this blog, our veterinarians in Lisle discuss cold laser therapy, which is commonly used in combination with other treatments to alleviate pain and improve the healing of your dog's tissues. They provide detailed information about the treatment, its procedures, and what you can expect.
What is cold laser therapy for dogs?
Cold laser therapy (also referred to as low-level laser therapy or Class IV laser therapy) uses focused light to increase blood circulation and stimulate the regeneration of cells.
Inflammatory conditions are treated with this non-invasive, drug-free treatment. It's been used in conjunction with traditional medical treatments to treat soft tissue and tendon injuries, as well as arthritis, in recent years. It can also be used to speed up the healing of wounds.
Does cold laser therapy work on dogs?
Yes. Laser therapy for pets has been deemed safe and effective by the veterinary industry. It can be used to treat a variety of diseases, injuries, and conditions, including tissue injuries (such as strains and sprains) and arthritis.
We often use it to supplement other treatment options to improve our pet patients' outcomes.
As for benefits, laser therapy can:
- Enhance circulation
- Decrease nerve sensitivity
- Reduce pain and swelling
- Speed the healing process
In addition, laser therapy does not have any negative side effects, and no sedation is required. We also do not need to clip or shave the area being treated.
Does laser therapy hurt dogs?
Suppose you're concerned about whether laser therapy is painful for dogs. In that case, you'll be relieved to know that if the treatment is performed correctly by a well-trained and experienced veterinarian, your dog should experience no pain.
Most pets find the sensation of a handheld laser wand being waved back and forth over their injured tissue soothing and relaxing.
It's important to note that during a laser therapy session, all veterinary staff and patients must wear protective goggles to prevent permanent damage to both human and canine retinas, as a laser beam can cause harm if directed at an eye.
How often should my dog get cold laser therapy?
Over time, the effects of cold laser therapy are cumulative. For best results, treatments should be completed at the frequency recommended by your veterinarian.
How long does a cold laser therapy treatment last?
The duration of each session will vary based on the area being treated and the amount of energy being delivered through the laser. Typically, a session lasts between five and twenty minutes.
Before beginning laser therapy, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical exam and may take X-rays to determine if this treatment option is suitable for your pet.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.