Benefits of Therapeutic Laser Therapy

Laser Therapy does 3 main things: reduces pain, reduces inflammation, and speeds healing time.  We have had laser therapy at the VVC for over a year now and many of our patients have greatly benefitted.  We use the laser on a daily basis.  We have implemented it into our surgical protocols, patients receive post-surgical treatments to help with their recovery time.

Laser can be used on acute conditions: wounds, allergies, infections, cuts/bites, inflammation, tooth extractions, sprains/strains/fractures, post-surgical healing.  Can also be utilized for chronic conditions: degenerative joint disease, inflammatory bowel disease, periodontal disease, lick granulomas, geriatric care, hip dysplasia, feline acne, tendonitis, arthritis, otitis.  These conditions are all to just name a few, there are many other uses for the laser.

Laser therapy works because it uses a beam of laser light to deeply penetrate tissues without damaging them.  This them stimulates the tissues and the cells on a molecular level.  It uses light energy to induce a biological response called “photo-bio-modulation” which leads to the reduction in pain and inflammation and quickens healing time.

Laser therapies vary in time depending on the area of concern.  But we make the experience worth while!  Everyone is on a nice cushy mat, with lots of comforters.  We are in a quiet room (and don’t tell anyone, but treats are constant!).  Not to mention everyone is in the cool glasses and doggles (see photos below).  The laser light is delivered though a noninvasive handpiece.  Your pet may feel some soothing warmth in the area, and depending on the procedure the handpiece may not even touch your pet (if we do need to use the handpiece on your pet, it is a soothing, smooth ball.  It will feel like a massage to your pet!).

This can work on its own or in conjunction with other modalities and medications.  It is all about finding what is going to work best for your pet.

Fun Fact: Teams in the NHL, NBA, NFL, MLB, MLS, Olympic and collegiate teams all use this exact laser as part of their therapy!  The Buffalo Sabres own this exact laser!