LOW LEVEL LIGHT THERAPY (LLLT)
What is Cold Laser?
The role of LLLT in Animal Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy
LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) is the application of red and near infra-red light over injuries or lesions to improve wound and soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation and give relief for both acute and chronic pain. First developed in 1967, it is now commonly referred to as LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy).
LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) is used to: increase the speed, quality and tensile strength of tissue repair; resolve inflammation and relieve pain (analgesia).
The red and near infrared light (600nm-1000nm) commonly used in LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) can be produced by laser or high intensity LEDs. The intensity of LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) lasers and LED’s is not high like a surgical laser. There is no heating effect.The effects of LLLT are photochemical (like photosynthesis in plants). When the correct intensity and treatment times are used, red and near infrared light reduces oxidative stress and increases ATP. This improves cell metabolism and reduce inflammation. These effects can be enhanced with pulses however when analgesia is required there is a second mechanism which works best when a strong continuous beam is applied.
LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) devices are typically delivering 10mW – 500mW (0.01 -> 0.01 Watts). The power density typically ranges from 0.005W/Cm² -> 5 W/Cm².
LLLT (Low Level Laser Therapy) is popularly used for soft tissue injuries, joint conditions, neuropathic pain, non-healing leg and pressure ulcers.
References
Darryl L. Millis, MS, DVM, DACVS, DACVSMR, CCRP
Professor of Orthopedic Surgery & Director of Surgical Service
Robin Downing, DVM, MS, DAAPM, DACVSMR, CVPP, CCRP
Diplomate of the American Academy of Pain Management, is a a founder and past-president of the International Veterinary Academy of Pain Management.
Janet B. Van Dyke, DVM
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, CCRT, CEO
Ludovica Dragone, DVM, CCRP
Vice President of VEPRA, Veterinary European of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Association.
Andrea L. Henderson, DVM, CCRT, CCRP
Resident, Canine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation
Steven M.Fox, MS, DVM, MBA, PhD
President Securos. Inc
Dr. Hirschberg is the hospital director of Brockton Animal Hospital. He came to the hospital after graduating from The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, and has been here over 30 years. During his tenure, Dr. Hirschberg has developed the facility into a full service hospital emphasizing surgery as well as medicine.
Dr. Hirschberg’s areas of interest include orthopedics, ophthalmology, dermatology, and low level laser therapy. He is a recognized authority on photomedicine and its application in companion animal medicine. His treatment protocols are published in Thor Photomedicine’s veterinary treatment manual, and his speaking engagements have included WALT (World Association of Laser Therapy) and NAALT (North American Association of Laser Therapy).
A DRUG FREE ALTERNATIVE
Cold laser therapy is used to treat multiple ailments and injuries and is also beneficial to dogs recovering from surgery. The treatment is particularly useful for dogs that have a painful condition or injury. Treatable ailments include:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Corneal diseases
- Head traumaMuscle, tendon & ligament injuries
- Pain management for trauma & post surgical wounds
- Inflammation & swelling
- Wound healing including degloving injuries & more
