Laser Therapy

Laser or 'photo-biomodulation' therapy is a safe and effective treatment that uses particular wavelengths of light that stimulate tissues at a cellular level. Depending on the requirements of the patient this can be adapted to provide a variety of clinical benefits.

Laser therapy may be provided in combination with a hydrotherapy and rehabilitation session or as a stand-alone treatment. At Blue Mountains Animal Rehab Centre we have a Class IV laser which decreases treatment times whilst still providing excellent therapeutic benefits.

Laser therapy is used to:

• Reduce acute and chronic pain

• Reduce inflammation of tissues

• Increase cell replication and repair by stimulating re-uptake of ATP by mitochondria and increases metabolic rate

• Help to break down scar tissue - a huge factor in slow recovery from injury/surgery

• Stimulate trigger points and help reduce muscle tension and spasm

• Reduce oedema and swelling 
   

When used correctly it is an extremely safe and effective treatment which should have no side-effects. We have seen great results when used in combination with hydrotherapy treatments.

Laser is suitable for a range of conditions such as osteoarthritis, musculo-skeletal conditions, wound healing, ear conditions, hot spots, lick granulomas, stomatitis in cats and ear infections among many others. Laser therapy can be used alongside other rehabilitation elements such as hydrotherapy or as a stand-alone treatment. This is particularly suited to small animals such as cats and rabbits that may not be suited to hydrotherapy. 

Treatment times vary but are usually roughly 20-30 minutes and includes a re-assessment at each visit. Patients usually tolerate laser therapy very well and are comfortable and relaxed.

An initial assessment is required prior to starting laser therapy which lasts approximately 1 hour.