Wildlife 2nd Chance Rescue adopted this therapeutic laser treatment some years back, after introduction to the method was used by one of the animals in our care was treated by DR Bebee Out of Battle Creek, MI ~ our veterinarian office who provides medical attention to our wildlife aside from their normal practice! 

Therapeutic laser is the application of light energy to areas of the body to stimulate healing. This light–tissue interaction is called photobiomodulation. In the past, therapeutic laser was often referred to as “low-level” or “cold” laser (as opposed to a surgical or “hot” laser).

 The word “laser” originated as an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Laser light is different from “normal” light because it is of a single wavelength and it is focused (concentrated). The wavelength (measured in nanometers or nm) influences the biological effects of the therapeutic laser; some wavelengths are better for pain, some are better for inflammation, and others are better for skin lesions. The wavelength also determines the depth of penetration into the body’s tissues. Most medical laser applications use light wavelengths ranging from visible red to infrared. The shorter, visible wavelengths penetrate tissue to a shallower depth, whereas longer, infrared wavelengths penetrate deeper into tissue. 

The most common applications for therapeutic laser include muscular sprain/strain and the resultant pain, osteoarthritis (laser treatment over joints and muscles that are painful), post-operative application around incisions, wounds (to stimulate and accelerate healing) and any situation in which the animal is experiencing musculoskeletal pain. Other applications include aiding in the healing of bone fractures, lick granulomas, tendon injuries, and as part of acupuncture treatments.

Photobiomodulation (the laser–tissue interaction) creates many consequences in the body’s cells, with the most significant being reduction of pain and enhancement of healing. For example, therapeutic laser reduces pain by decreasing inflammation, as well as by decreasing tissue chemicals that stimulate pain and by affecting nerve conduction. Therapeutic laser also enhances healing by increasing microcirculation (blood flow through the smaller blood vessels of the body), stimulating cellular activity, and increasing growth factors.

The therapeutic laser dose is expressed in joules of energy delivered at the skin surface. The dose is calculated by taking into consideration the type of laser equipment being used, the surface area of the affected body part, and the size of the patient. The dosage to treat deep tissues largely depends on patient size; for example, the bigger and bulkier the patient, the higher the concentration of energy needed. The laser dosage for treating superficial conditions is more consistent for many patients, regardless of size.

Once the dose of laser energy at the surface is determined, the surface area over the tissue to be treated is measured. With class III therapeutic lasers, the laser handpiece is typically moved around the area to be treated in a grid pattern; the handpiece remains in each spot until a certain number of joules of energy are delivered. The higher-power density of a class IV therapeutic laser means that the handpiece should remain in fairly constant motion, “painting” the surface of the treatment area in a systematic pattern.

Therapeutic lasers are not all the same. The two classes of therapeutic laser in common use are class III and class IV. Class III therapeutic lasers are lower powered and typically use shorter wavelengths. Class IV therapeutic lasers are higher powered and use longer wavelengths. Different powered lasers will take different amounts of time to deliver the treatment dose of light energy. A higher-power laser translates to a shorter treatment time overall.

 Cold Laser Therapy and Red Light Therapy are two different things. Red light therapy uses red LED light to target skin and cells, while cold laser therapy utilizes low-level lasers or LEDs to stimulate cellular activity for healing and pain relief.  

The length of a therapeutic laser treatment depends on the total dose of light energy to be delivered and how quickly the laser can deliver that energy. For instance, a class III laser might require treatment lasting 20 minutes or more, while a class IV laser might only require a few minutes.

Low-Level Laser Therapy can be used for treating many diseases and disorders, including treatment of depression, tuberculosis, healing of wounds, and pain management related to ailments such as arthritis, wounds, TMJ, and musculoskeletal disorders. 

Ten Benefits of Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, has gained recognition for its various therapeutic benefits across a range of medical and healthcare applications. Here are some of the key benefits associated with cold laser therapy:

1. Pain Relief: Cold laser therapy is widely used for its analgesic effects. The low-level laser light stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, helping to alleviate both acute and chronic pain conditions. This makes it valuable for managing conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and musculoskeletal injuries.

2. Reduced Inflammation: The anti-inflammatory properties of cold laser therapy contribute to reducing swelling and inflammation. By modulating the inflammatory response at a cellular level, the therapy promotes faster healing and provides relief for conditions like tendonitis and bursitis.

3. Accelerated Healing: Cold laser therapy enhances cellular function and metabolism, leading to faster tissue repair and regeneration. This makes it beneficial for healing wounds, cuts, and injuries, as well as post-surgical recovery. Athletes often turn to cold laser therapy to expedite the healing of sports injuries.

4. Improved Blood Circulation: The therapy stimulates the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that enhances vasodilation and improves blood flow. Improved circulation is vital for delivering oxygen and nutrients to tissues, supporting overall tissue health and aiding in the recovery process.

5. Non-Invasive and Painless: One of the significant advantages of cold laser therapy is its non-invasive nature. Unlike surgical interventions or certain drug treatments, cold laser therapy does not involve incisions or the use of medications, making it a safe and painless option.

6. Minimal Side Effects: Cold laser therapy has minimal side effects. People typically experience no discomfort during or after the treatment. This is a stark contrast to some pharmaceutical interventions that may have adverse effects.

7. Versatility in Applications: Cold laser therapy is versatile and can be applied to various medical conditions. It is used in physical therapy, chiropractic care, dermatology, dentistry, and veterinary medicine, showcasing its adaptability across different healthcare disciplines.

8. Reduction in Scarring: By promoting optimal healing conditions, cold laser therapy may help minimize scar formation. This is particularly beneficial for people recovering from surgeries or injuries where scarring could be a concern.

9. Enhanced Nerve Function: Cold laser therapy has shown promise in improving nerve function and can be utilized in the management of conditions such as peripheral neuropathy. It aids in reducing pain associated with nerve damage and promotes neural regeneration.

10. Well-Tolerated : People generally find cold laser therapy sessions to be comfortable and well-tolerated. The absence of pain experienced during the treatment contributes to a positive experience.

Some models such as the brand "Cutting Edge" Laser Technology ~ are very pricy for the common household ~ but are among the best on the market for Doctors and Veterinarian practices! 

We have offered some links to products easily accessible & affordable therapeutic lasers below! 

Please use your own Due diligence in your search concerning product reviews! Some products are red light therapy but state cold laser treatment! Both kinds of treatment can be very beneficial, and many good reviews can be researched!