THEAPEUTIC LASER

We have an Omega Laser that is available for treatments for both humans in our barn and animals in their home.

For the past 30 years Low Level Laser Therapy has been researched and available in the medical field for the treatment of pain, wound healing, musculoskeletal conditions and as an alternative to needles in acupuncture. The same physiological effects are utilised in animal laser therapy to provide a safe and effective way to improve the healing of:

Wounds

Soft Tissue Injuries

Tendons and Ligaments

Muscle problems

Fractures

Treating with Laser Treatment is quick, pain-free, easy to apply and effective. Appropriate probes are placed on the skin relative to the damaged area and controlled light of a specific wavelength, power, pulsing frequency and duration, is passed into the tissue. Laser therapy is especially effective for chronic conditions, infection, non-healing wounds or where the animal’s immune system is compromised. Response is quick, with the treatment times per session relatively short. Depending on the condition, laser therapy is given once or twice weekly, followed by progressively longer treatment intervals as symptoms ease. During treatment most animals will be seen to relax.

How does it work?

Different wavelengths and pulsing frequencies of light are used to stimulate the cells involved in the body’s own healing processes. Initial absorption by mitochondria initiates this leading to increased fibroblast proliferation and migration, with modulation of cytokine levels, growth factors, inflammatory mediators and increased oxygenation - all part of the natural healing process.

In addition to local cellular effects, laser therapy also enhances the level of endorphin release which, together with its capacity to suppress c-fibre activity, can be successfully used in the management of pain. Finally the capability to stimulate acupuncture points allows treatment of the full range of conditions which can be addressed by acupuncture

Optimal Wound Healing

Vets report that the use of low level laser makes a real difference in both the speed and quality of wound healing, particularly where the healing is delayed. It performs well in reducing oedema and aids collagen alignment often resulting in better cosmetic appearance. Laser can initiate the healing process where stalled, whether wounds or chronic injuries are involved. Laser is also excellent when addressing skin conditions and for dental treatments and mouth infections in small animals.

Calming Pain Relief

Low level laser therapy can relieve pain for all manner of conditions, from arthritic joints in cats to mud fever in horses. In human research it has been shown to increase endorphin release and the resultant calming feel-good effects can be equally useful in animals who often relax even to the extent of falling asleep during treatment.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Whether the damage is to muscle, tendon, ligament or other soft tissue, laser therapy can speed up and improve the resolution. As concluded by McKibbin and Parschak in their published study on the subject: ”Lasering bowed tendons presents a safe and less expensive alternative to traditional methods which often require a year layoff for the horse.” It is also used to great effect on muscle spasms and for easing general muscle and joint stiffness whether due to heavy exercise or just wear and tear.

Faster Recovery

Laser therapy optimizes the rate and quality of healing meaning faster recovery for all and importantly shorter lay -offs for working and competition animals.

Advantages

Laser therapy can be used independently, in conjunction with conventional veterinary practices, or effectively alongside other complementary therapies. It is:

Safe

Non -invasive

Painless

Versatile

Side -effect free

Ideal when treating very young, old or otherwise nervous animals, laser is uniquely suited for treating over trigger points, ashi acupuncture points and other areas of pain or sensitivity. An advantage of laser therapy is that it is drug free - particularly useful where drugs are contra -indicated or where an animal is drug - resistant. In addition, unlike certain other electrotherapies, treatment can also safely be given over pins or plates.