Cold laser therapy for equines has the benefits of traditional pain relief methods but without many of the drawbacks associated with alternative forms of equine pain relief and wound care. We answer the most common questions on cold laser therapy for horses below.
First we would like to cover the basics and basic cold laser information.
1. WEAR PROTECTIVE EYE-WEAR: Always wear protective eye wear when using any class laser! You should wear Safety Glasses approved for the 800nm-1100nm range. Safety glasses rated in this range can be found at various stores online. Make sure you are purchasing certified/approved safety glasses. No matter what class laser, even pointer pen lasers - NEVER look directly into any laser, point it at or near human or animals eyes.
2. DO NOT USE COLD LASERS IF: Cold lasers, or LLLT, are not recommended for cancerous areas or where cancer was removed. Like any other equipment, LLLT should never be used to treat eyes unless it is being done so by a veterinarian with proper training, as it is very easy to do more damage. It is NOT recommend for use if pregnant. Never use LLLT near the thyroid.
3. CONSULT WITH DOCTOR OR VETERINARIAN BEFORE USE: We recommend that you consult with your Doctor or Veterinarian before administering cold laser treatments.
How do you use the cold laser on horses?
When it comes to using the cold laser device, keep in mind that the Pulse and Continuous modes are different, and will have different effects on each horse. The Pulse setting is best for arthritic or old/chronic injuries while the Continuous mode is for fresh, acute injuries. I like to watch the horses’ reactions when they are receiving treatment to get the best response. When using this device, I start at the outside of a wound, or at the top or bottom of a tendon, and work my way around the area. I find the best way to get relief is to hold the laser in one area for 90 seconds and then move it to the next area and continue until I have done this three times in each spot.
What is cold laser therapy and how does it work?
Cold laser therapy devices can promote tissue regeneration, wound healing and muscle recovery; reduce inflammation and relieve pain; and stimulate the growth of new blood vessels. LLLT is used in injury rehabilitation – and specifically for joint damage – due to its anti-inflammatory and pain relief properties.
LLLT is thought to work when the light an LLLT device emits passes through the skin into the body, where it stimulates the energy and respiration centers of cells – mitochondria – resulting in greater cell energy, communication, nutrition, growth and life.
LLLT is used to reduce inflammation, the most common cause of musculoskeletal pain. Research has shown that it reduces the cells and enzymes responsible for causing inflammation and increases antioxidant and anti-inflammatory enzymes.
Will cold laser treatments help with partially torn ligaments?
Cold laser therapy treatments help promote healing as well as reduce inflammation, which causes pain.
Cold laser therapy can promote tissue regeneration, wound healing and
muscle recovery; reduce inflammation and relieve pain; and stimulate the
growth of new blood vessels. LLLT is used in injury rehabilitation –
and specifically for joint damage – due to its anti-inflammatory and
pain relief properties.