Therapeutic Laser, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) or low level laser therapy(LLLT) is a none invasive, pain free electrotherapy. Laser stands for Light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation and is a non-invasive technique that reduces inflammation, provides pain relief, enhances the healing process.
🌈The Spectrum of Light:
Laser therapy is the application of focused specific wavelengths of light. Red and near infrared wavelengths(700-1000nm) are used. Laser therapy uses the power of light energy (photons) to stimulate cellular activity, restore cellular function and igniting a cascade of biological responses that foster healing at the cellular level.
🔬The Science(Briefly):
Enhanced Cellular Metabolism: Therapeutic laser's photons penetrate tissues and interact with cellular components, mitochondria are stimulated(Red light), leading to improved energy production(ATP) and enhanced cellular metabolism. This increased energy output fuels repair mechanisms and accelerates tissue healing.
Cell differentiation, proliferation and migration:
Photons stimulate light sensitive ion channels (Near infrared) creating an increase in calcium ions leading to interactions at a cellular level increasing cell movement, differentiation (transition into a specialist cell) and cell growth and division.
Reduced Inflammation: Reducing inflammation by suppressing pro-inflammatory mediators and promoting anti-inflammatory cytokines. This makes it a valuable tool in managing conditions like arthritis and soft tissue injuries.
Stimulated Circulation: Vasodilation(expanding blood vessels) increases blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. This enhanced circulation aids in nutrient transport and waste removal, essential for tissue repair. Increased lymphatic drainage and circulation can help reduce oedema (swelling).
💡Application:
Pain Management: Therapeutic laser's have an analgesic effect stemming from its influence on nerve cells and pain receptors, meaning it plays a role in chronic and acute pain relief. It stimulates the release of endorphins which reduce pain threshold, increased release of Serotonin, and decreases nociceptor action.
Tissue Regeneration: By stimulating fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis, therapeutic laser contributes to tissue regeneration, accelerating wound healing and post-surgical recovery.
Potential Neurological Benefits: Scientific investigations suggest that therapeutic laser may enhance neural regeneration and improve nerve function, making it a promising avenue for neurologically compromised patients.
🔦Tailored Treatment:
Laser therapy can be used as part of a holistic treatment program alongside traditional treatments in part of a multimodal, multidisciplinary treatment approach. Utilising the scientific evidence base(which is increasingly expanding) along side knowledge of underlying pathophysiology and tissue healing process, parameters are adjusted based on the unique needs and target area of each patient.
Laser can be used for a whole host of conditions including:
Osteoarthritis
Elbow & hip dysplasia
Cranial cruciate ligament disease or rupture
Kissing spine, back pain, spondylosis, lumbar-sacral disease, IVDD/IVDE
Fractures
Ligament and tendon injuries
Post surgical recovery & pain relief
Wound healing
Muscle injuries, & spasm
General swelling/haematomas/bruising.
Scar tissue
Many more
🏠At Home Light Therapy:
LED (light emitting diode) or red light therapy work in similar ways to LASER utilising light energy to promote healing. There is a lot of benefit to regular use of at home red light therapy devices, these can be used in conjunction with treatment sessions by your therapist. They are great to continue the benefits of laser therapy between session, to help maintain comfort, accelerate healing and reduce inflammation. I often recommend devices that are affordable at home options and easy to use. The Photizo Vetcare is my go to device for at home treatments, I offer a hire service on my Photizo Vetcare which is great if your animal is recovering from injury, or surgery, or if you want to 'try before you buy'. For those with longer term or degenerative conditions I think purchasing a device is more cost effective. Ask me about them and you can purchase one through me for a small discount with tailored advice on where and how your animal would benefit the most from use. Alternatively you can buy them directly through Photizo's official UK stockist here via this link;
If you would like to discuss Laser therapy options for your animal please contact me.