Q&A: MEDICAL LASER THERAPY FOR DOGS
I have put together the most asked questions I get about medical laser therapy for dogs below.
WHAT TYPE OF LASER DO YOU USE?
I have worked with various types of lasers, but currently I work with a class 3B Gallium Arsenide laser (GaAs) from Irradia. This laser emits infrared radiation with a wavelength of 904nm. It is always pulsed, with extremely short pulses of high intensity, more or less like flash bulb. Because of its high peak power, its penetration is considerably greater than for a laser of the same wavelength but which is not super-pulsed. Measurements show that penetration depth is as deep as 3-5cm, depending on tissue type and working method. This laser is very versatile, as its exceptional on deep seated problems in the back, neck, shoulders and knees, tendonitis, arthritis, and myofascial pain, as well as it amazing on more “superficial” conditions like skin problems - when applied correctly.
Remember different types of lasers affect cells and tissue in different ways, and all the information you find one my website refers back to GaAs.
HOW DOES LASER THERAPY WORK?
It involves very complicated processes in the cells and tissues, but, in brief, you can say that laser therapy (using GaAs) affects the local immune system, blood and lymph circulation, cell metabolism and the release of different substances, e.g. endorphins and prostaglandins, which influence the perception of pain, amongst other functions. There is not always a stimulating effect: laser phototherapy have a normalising effects. However, when done correctly, laser therapy can initiate healing processes and is therefore primarily an aid to self-help. The laser stimulates the cells, making them work optimal by producing the energy (ATP) and increasing the blood flow. This stimulation releases chemicals called endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which are pumped out by the brain during times of pain and stress.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF LASER?
Pain relief
Accelerated tissue repair
Faster wound healing
Increased blood flow to damaged tissue
Increased metabolic activity of cells
Reduced scar tissue formation
Improved nerve function and recovery following nerve damage
Anti-inflammatory effect
Soothing muscle tension
Reduction of swelling
Immune booster
To mention the most common areas laser treatments can be beneficial.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN BE TREATED WITH LASER?
In short any tissue that is painful, swollen or damaged can be treated with the laser. Common examples are:
Osteoarthritis
Muscle, ligament or tendon sprains and strains
Neck and back pain
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Post-surgical wound treatment
Acute traumatic wounds
Chronic wounds
Nerve repair
Fracture repair
Intervertebral disc disease
Lick granulomas
Ear infections
Anal gland abscess
Chronic stomatitis in cats
Cystitis
Inflammations
Immune boost
IS LASER PAINFUL FOR MY DOG?
No, treatment sessions are non-invasive, quick, and painless. Most dogs find it very relaxing and will fall as sleep during or after a treatment.
HOW WILL MY DOG FEEL AFTER A SESSION?
If your dog is being treated for e.g. arthritis or an injury they should feel relieved from pain after each laser therapy treatment, how long for depends on your dog and the severity of their condition. You may find that your dog is willing to walk up stairs or pick up toys when they haven’t for some time. Overall, your dog should feel brighter after laser therapy as their pain should have subsided.
HOW OFTEN WILL MY DOG NEED LASER TREATMENT?
This depends on your dog, the condition (acute or chronic) and how they respond to the treatment. With e.g. arthritis, animals usually require treatment 2 -3 times per week to begin with and then this can be reduced over time.
WHERE ARE YOUR CONSULTATIONS BASED?
I have my consultation room at Love My Human Townhouse on 330 Kings Road, in the heart of Chelsea. I work Monday´s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s.
I hope this answered your questions about medical laser therapy for dogs, if you have further questions, please contact me!