About
Class iV laser therapy
Laser therapy, also known as cold laser or low level laser therapy, is scientifically referred to as photobiomodulation. Photobiomodulation refers to the light’s ability to elicit photochemical and photophysical reactions involving chromophores within cell mitochondria to increase ATP production, thus improving cellular energy and function. In short, the light causes changes at a cellular level which are useful in alleviating pain and inflammation, promoting healing, and improving cellular regeneration.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive, nonpharmaceutical treatment option for many conditions including acute or chronic injuries, acute or chronic pain conditions, and wound healing. Most inflammatory or pain conditions will benefit from laser therapy. Specific examples in small animal patients include osteoarthritis, IVDD, cranial cruciate injuries, neck/shoulder injuries, non-healing wounds, etc. Specific examples in equine patients include osteoarthritis, tendonopathies such as superficial digital flexor injuries (bowed tendon), lumbosacral or nonspecific back pain/discomfort, wound healing, etc. Laser therapy also increases blood flow to the treated areas which is especially beneficial for releasing tension in tight muscle groups after strenuous athletic activity.
Dr. Shelley has received training on proper laser handling and technique from the American Institute of Medical Laser Applications (AIMLA) and has been performing laser therapy for several years. Laser therapy can be used as its own treatment or in combination with other therapies such as acupuncture to promote an even greater response. Laser therapy can also be used as a substitute for acupuncture for those special patients that don’t tolerate needle placement of any kind.
There are multiple classes of therapeutic lasers available that vary in the frequency and time needed to achieve results. KVRA carries a Class IV laser from Companion Animal Health which is one of the strongest lasers available to achieve results with fewer and shorter sessions than Class 3 and below lasers. This means your pet may benefit from treatments sooner without having to sit each for 30+ minutes for each session. Most sessions last anywhere between 5-15 minutes. More comprehensive conditions (ex. generalized osteoarthritis in a large dog) and certain equine conditions may take longer. Check out Companion’s website for more details about the specific laser that KVRA carries.