Laser Therapy

Laser Therapy
by Dr. Courtney Belden, DVM
Central Virginia Veterinary & Acupuncture

Laser therapy is a relatively new type of treatment that can be used for a myriad of conditions.This treatment is non-invasive and can be used in conjunction with other treatments and medications. Laser therapy utilizes light energy to stimulate cells and in so doing, it increases healing, aids in circulation, provides local pain relief, and decreases inflammation. Laser therapy is most commonly used for arthritis, soft tissue injury, post-operative healing, wound management and many more conditions. It can also be used for acupuncture by replacing the traditional needles with the light energy from the laser.

Laser therapy can be used in cancer patients to provide palliative care. Palliative care is another term for providing relief of the pain, symptoms and stress of serious illness. Because laser therapy is such a great pain reliever and is non-invasive, it can be very useful in cases where all other options have been exhausted and palliative care is needed. This type of treatment should only be used with the express consent of the treating veterinarian as the effects on cancer cells have not yet been determined. Please be sure to discuss any and all treatments with your veterinarian.