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Laser Therapy is Here!
The Olney-Sandy Spring Veterinary Hospital has recently added a therapy laser to the arsenal of treatment options offered for their patients.
What is Laser Therapy?
Laser Therapy, or “photobiomodulation”, is the use of specific wavelengths of light (red and near-infrared) to create therapeutic effects. These effects include improved healing time, pain reduction, increased circulation and decreased swelling.
There is no patient sedation or restraint required as there is no sensation during treatment. Occasionally the patient feels mild, soothing, warmth or tingling and the experience is usually pleasant and comforting to the patient.
In some cases, improvement can be seen after a single treatment however; most patients require several treatments (3-8) for the greatest benefit. Laser therapy treatments are cumulative in nature so the length and frequency of treatment will vary with your pet’s condition. Most treatments may vary in length from approximately 2-8 minutes per site.
Studies show that Laser Therapy can help with a variety of conditions including but not limited to:
- Osteoarthritis
- Joint pain
- Tendinopathies
- Edema and Congestion
- Ligament Sprains
- Puncture Wounds
- Post-Traumatic Injury
- Post-Surgical pain
- Neck and Back pain
- Hip Dysplasia
- Burns
- Chronic Wounds
- Rehabilitation
- Post-Orthopedic Surgical Recovery
Client Testimonials:
“Lady” Nicholson—Lady is a special little West Highland Terrier that had her first knee injury in 2008. Her torn Anterior Cruciate Ligament was repaired at OSSVH, and she recovered well through the long process of physical therapy, heat, ice, and pain medication. Unfortunately, her other knee endured the same injury in April of 2011. The surgery was again, done by Dr. Hoffmann here at OSSVH, however this time, laser therapy was incorporated into post-operative treatment right after surgery and followed by five more treatments over the next three weeks. When asked, Lady’s owner commented on the marked difference between the two procedures regarding speed of recovery and level of comfort. Laser therapy allowed Lady to bear weight on the affected leg much sooner than expected, which led to a quicker return to normal life!
“Corey” had an experience similar to Lady’s, tearing his cruciate ligament in 2010 and had it repaired at another hospital. Using the same surgical technique, Corey had his second knee surgery here at OSSVH and received laser therapy in conjunction with our standard pain management protocols. His owner claims Corey was weight bearing in 2-3 days post surgery, much sooner than previous procedure. Laser therapy made such a difference in Corey’s recovery and quality of life that his owners decided to continue with a treatment package for the first knee due to developing arthritis and saw great results.
“Tetley” is a dalmation that developed a significant lick granuloma with ulcerated, thickened tissue on her right hind foot. Bandaging and topical medication were not successful, but there was immediate improvement upon starting laser therapy! In combination with antibiotics and an inflatable pro-collar to keep Tetley from licking the foot, hair started to grow back and the skin began to heal. A total resolution was achieved by the end of the recommended six treatments, and the granuloma has not returned.