Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as cold laser therapy or photobiomodulation, is becoming an important development in the treatment of physical diseases. Therapy lasers, which have been FDA-approved since 2005, increase the release of endorphins in tissue so that the perception of pain is diminished.
About Low-Level Laser Therapy
The treatment was accidentally discovered shortly after the invention of lasers. Now, this simple, non-invasive treatment is available for your pet at Fondren Pet Care.
Although most people think of cutting and surgery when they hear “laser,” the kind used in LLLT is a “cold” laser: instead of cutting tissue, it directs an intense beam of light to reduce pain and inflammation and accelerate healing. The process also increases phagocytosis (which aids white blood cells and the immune system), reduces swelling, and accelerates healing by increasing blood flow, cytokines (which stimulate immune system), fibroblasts (tissue repair cells), and collagen to damaged tissue.
LLLT therapy is 100% non-invasive, meaning not only does it not hurt your pet, but he or she won’t even need to be sedated or have their fur trimmed. It has the additional benefit of being drug free, non-surgical, and a safe means of providing lasting pain relief.
Common Uses of LLLT
LLLT treatments are often recommended for:
- Osteoarthritis in the joints of geriatric patients
- Acute and chronic otitis (ear infection or inflammation)
- Pain relief for strains and sprains (acute and chronic)
- Gingivitis and periodontal disease
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Hip dysplasia
- Inflammation or infection of the anal glands
- Lick granulomas (acral lick dermatitis)
- Caudal cruciate ligament
- Degenerative disc or joint disease
- Post-surgical pain
- Dermatalogical disorders
- Abscesses
- Burns
- Degloving injuries
- Podo dermatitis
- Pyotraumatic dermatitis (hot spots)
- Eosinophilic granuloma complex (cats)
What to Expect
Depending on the condition being treated, most pets show improvement within 12-24 hours of treatment. For best therapy, we recommend several (3-8) treatments. The length and frequency of treatments vary with your pet’s condition. Typically, we recommend treatments three times per week for the first week, twice the second week, and then once weekly, as needed.
After an exam, we tailor a treatment plan specific to your pet’s needs. The cost of most treatments is $25-$40 each session, although treatment of multiple joints can cost up to $60.
Call today to see if your pet could benefit from this low-cost, innovative, painless therapy.