Therapeutic laser treatment is an option for many health issues. East Hilliard Veterinary Services uses laser therapy on patients with conditions such as arthritis, ear hematomas and sprains. Therapy can also be administered to patients to assist in healing from bite wound, ear infections, surgical incisions and post dental extractions.

When using the laser treatment it gives off a small amount of heat which allows the increase of circulation, water oxygen, and nutrients to the affected site. This allows for faster healing of the area.

Treatment plans range in variety based on the frequency of visits the doctor deems necessary. Every other day for one week may be the initial plan for your pet. Often times when treating chronic conditions, treatment may go on to twice weekly, then once weekly and then to repeat as needed.

Using laser treatment is a nice alternative for the healing process or pain management without the use of drugs. It is also a non-surgical and pain free method for finding relaxation and comfort for your pet.

Physical and Biological Effects of Laser Therapy

Accelerated Tissue Repair and Cell Growth: Light from the laser penetrates deep into tissue and accelerates cellular reproduction and growth. The laser light increases the energy available to the cell so that the cell can take on nutrients faster and get rid of waste products. As a result of exposure to laser light the cells of tendons, ligaments, bones, nerves, and muscles are repaired faster.

Faster Wound Healing: In damaged tissue, laser light stimulates collagen, a vital part of wound healing. Collagen is the essential protein required to replace old tissue or to repair tissue injuries. As a result, laser therapy is effective on open wounds, scars, and burns.

Reduced Fibrous Tissue Formation: Laser therapy reduces the formation of scar tissue following tissue damage from cuts, scratches, burns or surgery. Scar tissue is the primary source of chronic pain.

Reducing Inflammation: Laser light has an anti-swelling effect. It causes the veins to dilate, but also activates the lymphatic drainage system, drains in swollen areas. As a result, there is a reduction in swelling caused by bruising or inflammation.

Pain Relief: Laser therapy has a highly beneficial effect on nerve cells. Rather than allowing the cells to transmit pain to the brain, the laser light helps block the pain and decreases nerve sensitivity. The reduction in inflammation results in less swelling and less pain.

Improved Blood Flow: Laser light will significantly increase the formation of new capillaries in damaged tissue. This, in return speeds up the healing process, closes wounds quickly, and reduces scar tissue. More blood flow equals faster healing and less pain.

Increased Metabolic Activity: Laser therapy enhances enzymatic activity within the cell. It promotes oxygen deliver and increases cell membrane permeability. The damaged cells can repair and regenerate faster.

Improved Nerve Function: In damaged tissue, slow recovery of nerve functions can result in numbness and impaired limbs. Laser light will speed up the process of nerve cell reconnection and increase the bulk of action potentials to optimize muscle action.

Trigger Points and Acupressure Points: Laser therapy reduces muscle trigger points and stimulates acupuncture points. This provides musculo-skeletal pain relief.