Therapy Laser Sheds New Light on Treatment

CENTRAL — Laser therapy is a wonderful innovative tool that is fairly new to the veterinarian profession.  In February of 2007, the Food and Drug Administration gave its stamp of approval. Since then, laser therapy treatment has become a breakthrough treatment that not only has several healing benefits, such as a more rapid recovery post-surgery, but also provides pain relief during times of stress or discomfort for the patient.

Crossroads Animal Hospital now practices with a Class IV laser, which is about 50 times stronger than the somewhat popular Class III predecessors. This means that there better tissue penetration in a shorter amount of time with the Class IV laser. Also, Class IV lasers have an adjustable power setting, meaning that they can penetrate up to seven inches, whereas the Class III laser was only able to superficially illuminate the skin by penetrating a depth of one inch. With the greater depth of penetration and shorter treatment times, laser therapy treatment with a Class IV laser is an extremely efficient and effective treatment for many pets.

A few benefits of the Companion Therapy Laser system include the following:

• Pain relief

• Reduced inflammation

• Accelerated tissue repair and cell growth

• Increased cellular metabolic activity

• Reduced fibrous tissue formation

• Improves nerve function by eliciting regeneration

• Accelerates wound healing

• Stimulates immune system

• Stimulates acupuncture points that provide needle-less acupuncture within seconds

Below I have answered the most frequently asked questions by my clients for a better explanation of what Companion Laser Therapy can do for you and your pet.

What types of injuries does

laser therapy treat?

Laser therapy treats a variety of wounds, aches, and conditions. I have used laser therapy in my clinic for cases of acute disc injuries to the spine or ligaments, chronic arthritic pain, and unresponsive local infection (e.g. chronic ear and anal gland infections) along with many others. The results of these treatments are extremely impressive. Nearly 80 percent of patients show significant improvement after only two to four treatments.

What can my pet and I expect

during a therapeutic laser

treatment?

Laser treatment therapy is very relaxing for the patient. Not only have I seen this in personal practice, but studies have proven that tissue endorphins are released during laser therapy treatments. Also, pets often have an increase in salivation and decreased pulse/respiration rate. All of these reactions, the endorphins, salivation, and pulse rate, create a calming sensation for the patient. The laser hand-piece is moved in a scanning motion, either close to or in light contact with the skin tissue.  A procedure may last as little or as long as 2-10 minutes for each affected area. It may also be a comfort to know that any pet owner can be present during the laser procedure.

Human patients who have received laser therapy treatment report a gentle warming sensation in the area being treated. (An increase in local tissue temperature is not considered a therapeutic benefit, but it is comfortable!).

How many laser therapy

treatments will my pet need?

Chronic problems are usually treated up to three times per week for two weeks. A transition period of one to two per week for 2 to 3 weeks.  After concluding the transition period, we recommend a maintenance treatment once every 3 to 4 weeks.  However, there are many patients that only need 2-3 laser treatments due to the lack of severity of the injury.

What are the goals of therapeutic laser therapy?

The main goals of therapeutic laser treatments are the following:

• Provide relief from pain and inflammation

• Restore range of motion or function

• Reduce or eliminate certain medications

• Give pets a higher-quality of life by being pain-free

Will this replace routine

arthritis treatments?

No, this does not replace routine arthritis treatments; however, it is very easily incorporated with the arthritis treatment arsenal and can improve the results of more traditional treatments such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, Adequan injections, glucosamine, nutraceuticals, and prescription diets.  If an animal does suffer from arthritis, we do recommend a standard exam, an X-ray, and careful diagnosis to pinpoint the precise area of need before laser therapy treatment is implemented.

Conclusion: We are very excited to be able to offer the Class IV Companion Therapy Laser at Crossroads Animal Hospital. We understand that making any decision for your pet is a difficult task, and we support and encourage everyone to make an informed and researched decision about treatment for your pet. If you have any other inquiries, we would love to hear from you and have the opportunity to answer any questions you may have.  Please contact us at Crossroads Animal Hospital- phone number (225) 261-6000 – to find out if Companion Laser Therapy is the right choice for you and your pet.

“It’s not just about extending their lives; it’s about improving the quality of their lives.”

— Dr. Tony LoBue