What exactly is a cold laser?

A cold laser is a machine that emits specific wavelengths of light to help treat pain and discomfort in specific areas of your pet.  This light energy enters cells that are damaged and causes activity within the cells.  By increasing activity within the cell itself, pain and discomfort may be diminished by reducing inflammation,  improving blood circulation, as well as enhance cellular recovery.

What is involved in cold laser therapy administration?

The cold laser is specifically set for the area where your pet needs treatment.  Different affected areas need specific wavelength frequencies and time to treat the area of pain, discomfort, or injury.  After the machine is ready, the probe is placed on the specific area and is slowly manipulated around the joint and area of pain.  This process ranges in time due to the area that is being treated and why it is being treated.  It is a painless procedure which may be used in adjunct with medications to treat discomfort.  Cold laser therapy, in some cases, may decrease the need of medication.  The ultimate goal is making your pet feel better and improvement is usually seen after one to three treatments with the cold laser.

How often will my pet need a treatment?

The number of treatments depends on the type of injury or pain your pet has.  For example, a dog with a sprained hock (ankle) may only need one to a few treatments.  Whereas a dog with a chronic condition, such as arthritis and hip dysplasia, may need more treatments initially, then receive maintenance treatments once to twice monthly.  A specific plan will be made for your pet depending on their needs.

The Goal:

The goal of cold laser therapy is to treat pain and inflammation at the cellular level.  This technology has been researched and several case studies have shown a positive outcome by using the cold laser.  No one wants their four-legged loved one to be suffering at any level.  It is very possible that completing a cold laser therapy series (number of sessions specific for your pet) can reduce pain and inflammation thereby allowing your pet to live a healthier and possibly pain-free life.  If you think cold laser therapy may benefit your pet, contact your veterinarian to see if they offer this service or can recommend a clinic that does integrate the cold laser into their pain management protocol.