Understanding Low Level Laser Therapy

The term laser is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. Radiation in this case refers to the coherent light energy which produces the laser beam.

In low level laser therapy the infrared laser energy has a stimulating effect on tissues because it increases cellular energy. The laser light energy becomes absorbed by the tissues, stimulating their metabolic process.

For more information about laser equipment have a look at the Respond Systems, Inc. website.

How do you use it?

Equipment is easy to use & treatment is simple and painless. Most treatments take 12-15 minutes although depending on the type of laser probe used. Treatments can be as short as a few seconds to each area to be targeted. Treating acupuncture points only takes 10-30 seconds to each point.

In simple terms what does it do?

• Laser light stimulates the release of the body's own pain killing chemicals endorphins and enkaphalins
• Facilitating long lasting natural pain relief.
• Wound healing is significantly improved by low level laser therapy, due to increased levels of collagen brought about. Increases in blood flow and reestablishment of lymph and blood vessels after trauma result in reduction of swelling.
• It does not create heat or burn tissue!

Low level laser therapy is an effective therapy, which works in harmony with the body's own healing and relieving mechanisms.

How long have lasers been used in therapy?

Low level laser have been used by doctors and therapists in hospitals and clinics in Europe on humans and animals since the early 1970's, Owners and trainers of race and show horses found it of value to treat problems common to these high performance animals.

Are there contra-indications or side effects?

• You should not look directly into the beam.
• Caution should be exercised if there is any indication of photo or light sensitivity, such as produced by taking certain medications. Also steroid or cortisone use of anti-inflammatories should be avoided. In all the years that low level lasers have been tested in research and clinical applications, no adverse side effects have been noted.
• Please keep in mind that a proper diagnosis is always necessary to treat effectively and appropriately.

Does your horse need Laser Therapy?

Here are some possible indications:

• Soft Tissue injuries to muscles, tendons and ligaments
• Scar tissue or old non healing wounds and injuries
• Recovering from surgery
• Arthritis, hip displacia, laminitis
• Chronic or acute inflammation of tendons, muscles or joint
• Pain relieved by stimulation of acu points