Low Level Laser

This service is available at:
Bulger Veterinary Hospital
Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital
Port City Veterinary Referral Hospital

What is a low level laser and how does it work?
The word LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Low level laser is a form of laser that projects the light it produces into the cells of the body instead of heat. The light is absorbed by the skin and underlying tissues. Mitochondria in the cells of the tissue convert this light into Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) (an energy source) which increases enzyme production, increases cell replication, increases growth factor formation and essentially provides the building blocks for the cell to heal damaged tissue.

In terms of your pet’s perception, or even your own if you were to use it on yourself, it will appear as though nothing is happening. All the activity is taking place at the cellular level. There is no heat and no sensation of any kind though the benefits will become clear quite quickly.

How it Works:

Light energy is absorbed by the tissues and acts at the cellular level to:

• improve cell metabolism and generate energy via photobiomodulation
• light penetrates the skin without causing damage to the skin or any heating effect
• stimulates cartilage and collagen
• decreases pain sensation
• decreases muscle spasms
• promotes new blood supply
• reduces inflammation

Benefits of low level laser therapy Include:

• Reduces the formation of scar tissue
• Decreases pain
• Improves neural recovery
• Enhances immune responses
• Decreases inflammation

Assists in wound healing by:

• Accelerating the formation of epithelial cells at the edges of the wound.
• Accelerating granulation of tissue in the center of the wound
• Antibacterial effects

Used in treatment of:

• Post-op swelling and inflammation
• Chronic inflammation (osteoarthritis)
• Wound and incisional healing
• Pain relief
• Muscle spasm/trigger points
• Muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries
• Bone healing