What is Laser Therapy?
Phoenix Veterinary Center is excited to announce that we have a new cold laser machine. It's used to treat post surgery pain, including soft tissue surgery and dental work: extractions and gingivitis, acute and chronic injuries, arthritis, back issues, wound healing and soft tissue swelling. Since this is a newer service, we wanted to provide you with all the necessary information.
How long has laser therapy been used for managing pain?
The beneficial effects of laser light on tissue were first recognized almost forty years ago. Since then, there have been thousands of studies documenting the positive effects laser light has on different types of cells, tissue, and disorders. Recent advances in technology and manufacturing have made it possible to have this exciting modality available and affordable for clinicians.
How does it work?
The laser light is delivered through a non-invasive handpiece to treat the affected area. Your pet will feel gentle and soothing warmth. As the laser is administered, many pets will relax, much like you would experience a good massage. The almost immediate relief of pain will allow your pet to be comfortable and any anxiety that your pet initially experienced will dissipate. The companion therapy laser system sends photons, or packets of light energy, deep into the tissue without damaging it. These photons are absorbed within the mitochondria of the cells and induce a chemical change called “photo-bio-modulation”. This light energy then inspires production of ATP in the cell. ATP is the fuel, or energy, cells need for repair and rejuvenation. Impaired or injured cells do not make this fuel at an optimal rate. Increased ATP production leads to healthier cells, healthier tissue, and healthier animals.
How many treatments are needed?
Laser therapy for chronic conditions can require multiple (6-12) treatments to get your pet to a very comfortable situation. Maintenance treatments are then required every 2 to 4 weeks afterwards to maintain the reduced pain and/or mobility.
Is it safe? Are there side effects?
We understand that your pets are your family. We would never subject your family members to anything harmful. Laser therapy has had FDA clearance for over 6 years and is not only used in animal heath but human health as well.
There are no known side effects and as long as the proper safety precautions are observed, it is a very safe procedure and the laser produces a slightly warm feeling in the inflamed tissue. In fact, most animals relax while being treated. Your pet lies on a mat on the floor. After that, we do everything else. A wand is waved over all affected areas for a predetermined amount of time. The depth of penetration varies due to tissue type, but it will penetrate 4-5 cm in most cases.
How long does it take?
Usually one treatment can take anywhere from 3 to 7 minutes.
Do I need to do anything at home?
No. Some pets do respond positively to one treatment. The treated site feels better 12 to 24 hours after treatment.
How much does it cost?
Laser therapy is very affordable. Price varies based on severity and type of condition. An initial consultation is required of $50, this includes a nose to tail exam and treatment plan recommendation with the doctor. Single sessions are $50, but we do offer packages of 10 sessions at a discounted price. Single post op treatments are only $25.
What can be treated with laser therapy?
If your pet is feeling pain, has inflammation, or a wound, the laser is a sterile, pain-free, surgery-free, drug-free treatment. The laser is used to treat a variety of injuries, wounds, fractures, neurological conditions, numerous dermatological problems, and pain. Whether your pet is rehabilitating from trauma or injury, healing from wounds, or simply aging, the laser has been shown to provide relief and speed healing.
Companion Laser Therapy can be used on:
Chronic pain such as arthritis
Broken bones
Wounds
Abscesses
Hot spots
Chronic ear infections
After surgical procedures to increase healing time, and decreases pain
Trauma injuries
Hip dysplasia
It decreases healing time and pain
Muscle strains
Edema (localized swelling)
Chronic wounds
Lick granulomas
Muscle strains
Burns
Assist in orthopedic surgery healing time
Neck and back pain
What should I expect to see after a treatment?
You might see a change in activity when your pet comes home. For some it might be increased activity and others may be more relaxed. This is due to the pain relief and reduction in inflammation.
When will I see a change?
You may see relief in the first treatment or so as the pain and inflammation are reduced. For example: better mobility for joint conditions, drying and healing of dermatological issues, faster healing for wounds and incisions, or your pet just seeming more relaxed and comfortable . For some conditions, a series of treatments may be necessary before you see results due to the severity or complexity of the condition. Each pet is different, and treatments are unique for your pet’s specific needs.
SPECIAL: PVC offers individual treatments for $50 or you can get 10 treatments for $400 (2 FREE). And for a post surgery treatment, it's only $25.
Contact us today, if you are interested in booking an appointment for this cold laser therapy service, at 602-559-5500. If you would like more information, please email us.
