We all want our pets to pain free and living their best life. So what can we do if our loved ones are in pain and or suffering from conditions such as arthritis, muscle strain, wounds and skin conditions. Laser therapy is a safe, effective and cost effective way of reducing pain, inflammation and to promote wound healing in pets. We are going to look into two types – red light therapy and cold laser therapy.
What is Red Light Therapy?
Decades of research have demonstrated the safety and efficacy of red light therapy across a spectrum of medical conditions in both humans and animals. Photobiomodulation is the interaction that occurs between the red light and the cells. When red or near-infrared light is applied to the skin, it is absorbed by cellular structures called mitochondria. These tiny powerhouses of cells convert the light energy into chemical energy, leading to an increase in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production. ATP is essential for various cellular functions, including repairing damaged tissues and reducing inflammation. The specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light utilized in this therapy are absorbed by the mitochondria within cells, often referred to as the cellular “powerhouses.” This absorption of light energy triggers the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the cellular energy currency, while simultaneously enhancing blood circulation in the treated region.
Red Light Therapy has been proven to reduce pain and inflammation stemming from conditions such as arthritis, muscle strains, and joint inflammation by accelerating the healing process and tissue repair and offering relief from swelling. This makes it an excellent option for senior pets experiencing age-related discomfort and pets recovering from surgery or injury. A study featured in the Journal of Orthopaedic Research highlighted the significant pain reduction and functional improvement in dogs afflicted with osteoarthritis. Similarly, research published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology demonstrated the capacity of red light therapy to alleviate inflammation and expedite wound healing, particularly in felines.
Red light therapy has also proven its effectiveness in managing various skin conditions in pets by stimulating skin cell regeneration, leading to quicker recovery. An investigation reported in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association underscored the efficacy of red light therapy in treating allergic dermatitis in dogs and a study published in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery affirmed its proficiency in addressing feline skin conditions, including feline acne.
Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy for dogs, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) also works via photobiomodulation. It is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate healing, reduce pain, and alleviate inflammation in dogs. This therapy is similar in principle to red light therapy but uses specific wavelengths of light in the visible and near-infrared spectrum to interact with cells and tissues.
Cold laser therapy typically uses light in the range of 600 to 1000 nanometers compared to wavelengths, ranging from 630 to 850 nanometers in red light therapy. When the low-level laser or LED light is applied to the dog’s body, it is absorbed by cells within the tissue. This interaction with cellular structures, particularly mitochondria, triggers a series of biochemical reactions that can lead to various therapeutic effects as seen in red light therapy. Cold laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that does not require anesthesia or sedation. Most dogs tolerate the treatment well and do not experience any discomfort during the sessions.
Red Light and Cold Laser Therapy Devices
Disclaimer: Before beginning any new therapy or treatment for your dog, it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian to ensure it’s suitable for your pet’s specific needs.
When it comes to the well-being of our furry family members, we’re always on the lookout for innovative and effective solutions. There are many portable devices that can be used a home to provide red light and cold laser therapy. It is important to consider the device’s power or irradiance. The higher the irradiance, the more effective the treatment will be. We also recommend a device that has the dual wavelength technology of both red light and cold laser therapy. For example this device harnesses the power of 4x 808nm and 16x 650nm red and near-infrared LEDs, meticulously calibrated to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular activity. This means that whether your dog is grappling with arthritis, muscle strains, joint pain, or skin issues, this therapy device is designed to offer optimal results. The device is lightweight, portable, and user-friendly. Whether you have an active dog in need of muscle recovery or a senior companion experiencing joint discomfort, you can administer therapy sessions in the comfort of your own home. Simply select the treatment area, apply the device, and let the soothing light work its magic.
The Take Home Message
Red light therapy for pets represents a groundbreaking advancement in veterinary medicine, offering a safe and non-invasive method for enhancing the well-being of our beloved companions. By harnessing the power of light to stimulate cellular processes, this therapy provides pain relief, reduces inflammation, promotes wound healing, and improves mobility for pets of all ages.
As the field of veterinary medicine continues to evolve, red light therapy stands out as a holistic and effective approach to pet healthcare. If you have a furry friend experiencing discomfort, consider exploring the possibilities of red light therapy in consultation with a veterinarian. Illuminate the path to a happier and healthier life for your pet with the power of red light therapy.
1. Hamblin, M. R., et al. (2017). Red light therapy for the treatment of pain and wound healing: a review. Journal of Orthopaedic Research, 35(6), 1209-1217.
2. Koster, M. I., et al. (2007). Phototherapy for wound healing and pain control in cats: a pilot study. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 88(2), 123-128.
3. Hill, P. B., et al. (2009). Efficacy of low-level laser therapy in the management of allergic dermatitis in dogs. Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 235(9), 1022-1026.
4. Verstraete, F. J., et al. (2011). Low-level laser therapy in the treatment of feline acne: a pilot study. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 13(11), 835-838.