Using Cold Laser Therapy to Aid in the Healing of Soft Tissue Injuries in Pets

The American Animal Hospital Association recommends cold laser therapy for pets with soft tissue injuries to enhance blood circulation, trigger cell regeneration and speed up recovery.

What Is Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level or Class IV therapy, is a noninvasive procedure that treats the surface of the skin. It is a new concept which uses specific frequencies for treating pets with soft tissue or tendon injuries.

Laser therapy has proved effective for treating chronic and acute injuries like sprains, swelling, and musculoskeletal abnormalities. It can also help regenerate nerve tissue after a procedure. 

What Conditions Benefit from Cold Laser Therapy
 

• Improves nerve function
   

• Reduces inflammation
   

• Minimizes scar tissue
   

• Provides mild relief for the pain
   

• Speeds up wound healing and tissue repair
   

• Soothes muscle tension

What to Expect

Before the cold laser treatment, our veterinarians will conduct a complete physical checkup and may request X-rays in order to correctly diagnosis your pet’s condition. We will base the number of recommended therapy sessions on your pet’s response; they may need more cold laser therapy sessions if the condition is advanced. Acute conditions like joint problems or wounds may just require one or two treatments. For chronic conditions like arthritis, your pet will probably need two to three sessions each week and decrease as needed.

After the laser treatment, you may notice your pet climbing up and down the stairs more often. Walking and playing could become easier as well. You might even be able to decrease their pain medicine!

How Pets React to Cold Laser Therapy Sessions

The cold laser relaxes them during the therapy, which often lasts about three to 20 minutes. Your pet may stand or lie down on a soft mat during the session.

Research reveals that a cold laser treatment releases endorphins in your pet’s brain, which provide them with a pleasant feeling. Most pets like cold laser therapy. It allows them to associate the good sensation with the cold laser treatment.

Another good thing about this treatment is that we do not need to shave the target area. There is also no sedation necessary. This means that your pet can have this treatment daily or several times a week.

Cold laser treatment can help your pet regain better health and well-being. At Evergreen Animal Hospital, we always provide safe and effective treatments for pets. Feel free to bring your pet to our facility in Evergreen, Colorado, for an in-person consultation. Please call 303-674-4331 to set an appointment or ask about our cold laser therapy packages.