What is Laser Therapy?
Laser therapy uses photobiomodulation (PBM) which is a light therapy that uses red and near infra-red light to induce photochemical reactions in the body on the molecular and cellular levels.
Summus Medical Laser protocols combine wavelengths, pulsing and power to achieve unparalleled therapeutic effects including modulation of inflammation, reduction in pain, accelerated tissue healing and increased circulation.
Cellular Effects
During laser therapy, infrared laser light interacts with tissues at the cellular level resulting in increased metabolic activity within the cell. The subsequent result increase’s cellular function and stimulates tissue repair.
Therapeutic Effects
Each treatment is painless, and the laser energy increases circulation, drawing water, oxygen and nutrients to the damaged area. This creates an ideal healing environment reducing inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area heals, return to function and pain relief follow.
Energy flows where intention goes.
Shockwave Therapy
Officially called extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) – despite its name, is NOT an electric shock at all. It is a special frequency acoustic (sound) wave that carries high energy to painful areas and can be used to treat specific musculoskeletal conditions. This energy promotes regeneration of bones, tendons and other soft tissues. The shockwaves trigger the body’s repair mechanisms, enabling healing and long-term improvement of a variety of conditions. In ESWT, high-intensity sound waves interact with the tissues of the body, leading to development of new blood vessels, reversal of chronic inflammation, stimulation of collagen and dissolution of calcium build-up. Studies of shockwave therapy for dogs have shown positive results in improving bone healing, soft tissue damage, joint inflammation, and both the progression and pain of osteoarthritis!
Conditions that can be effectively treated with shockwave therapy include:
- Hip and Elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative joint disease
- Osteoarthritis
- Tendon and Ligament injuries
- Non- or delayed healing bone fractures
- IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease)
- Chronic or non-healing wounds
Treatment Specifics and Average Timeframes:
Treatment time depends on the strength of the shockwaves and the number of locations being treated. It takes time for the biological response in the body to take effect and begin healing. Your pet should not take part in any strenuous activity during this period even if they are feeling better. Many times ONE treatment is sufficient for long term healing however, depending on the indication, we may recommend a second or even third treatment. With severely arthritic patients, an ESWT series may be required every 6 to 12 months. Shockwave therapy should be used in conjunction with rehabilitation to return patients to full activity.
