Photobiomodulation Therapy in Veterinary Rehabilitation
Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT), sometimes known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or cold laser therapy, is an innovative and non-invasive treatment used in veterinary rehabilitation to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve the overall quality of life for animals. By utilising specific wavelengths of light, PBMT stimulates cellular function and enhances the body’s natural healing processes, making it an effective tool for treating a variety of conditions in pets.
What is Photobiomodulation Therapy?
Photobiomodulation therapy involves the application of light energy to the body’s tissues at specific wavelengths, typically in the red or near-infrared spectrum. This light energy is absorbed by the cells, particularly the mitochondria, which are the energy-producing structures within the cells. The absorption of light energy enhances cellular metabolism, increases ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, and promotes a cascade of beneficial biological effects that support healing and pain relief.
How Does Photobiomodulation Work?
The therapeutic effects of PBMT are based on the interaction between light photons and cellular receptors:
1. Light Absorption: When the light is applied to the skin, it penetrates deep into the tissues where it is absorbed by the cells, particularly by the mitochondria.
2. Increased Cellular Energy: The absorption of light energy stimulates the mitochondria to produce more ATP, which is essential for cellular function and repair.
3. Enhanced Cellular Function: The increase in ATP production enhances various cellular functions, including protein synthesis, cell proliferation, and tissue repair.
4. Reduction of Inflammation: PBMT helps reduce inflammation by modulating the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhancing anti-inflammatory processes.
5. Pain Relief: PBMT promotes the release of endorphins and reduces nerve sensitivity, providing pain relief in both acute and chronic conditions.
Conditions Treated with Photobiomodulation Therapy
Photobiomodulation therapy is versatile and can be used to treat a variety of conditions in veterinary rehabilitation, including:
- Osteoarthritis: Reduces pain and inflammation, improving joint mobility and quality of life for animals with arthritis.
- Wound Healing: Speeds up the healing process of wounds, ulcers, and post-surgical incisions.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Treats strains, sprains, and tendonitis by accelerating tissue repair and reducing inflammation.
- Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Provides pain relief and supports the healing of nerve tissues in animals with spinal issues.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Enhances the healing of surgical sites, reduces scar tissue formation, and alleviates post-operative pain.
- Chronic Pain Conditions: Offers long-term pain management for conditions such as hip dysplasia and degenerative joint disease.
How Photobiomodulation Therapy is Administered
Administering photobiomodulation therapy requires specialized equipment and expertise. The process typically involves the following steps:
1. Assessment: A veterinarian or certified veterinary rehabilitation therapist assesses the animal's condition to determine the appropriate treatment plan, including the specific areas to be targeted and the required dosage of light energy.
2. Preparation: The animal is positioned comfortably, and the therapist ensures the area to be treated is accessible. Rarely it may be suggested for your pet's fur to be clipped. You will be required to wear safety goggles, depending on the area being treated, your pet may have to wear safety goggles too.
3. Application of Light: The therapist uses a handheld laser or LED device to deliver light to the targeted tissues. The device is held close to the skin, and the treatment may last from a few minutes to over half an hour, depending on the size of the area and the condition being treated.
4. Monitoring: The animal’s response to the treatment is closely monitored. Adjustments to the intensity and duration of the light application may be made based on the animal's comfort and therapeutic response.
5. Follow-Up: Depending on the severity of the condition, multiple sessions may be needed to achieve the desired therapeutic outcomes. The therapist will evaluate the progress and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.
Safety and Considerations
Photobiomodulation therapy is generally safe, but there are some considerations to keep in mind:
- Eye Protection: Both the animal and the therapist should wear protective eyewear to prevent accidental exposure to the laser light.
- Thermal Burns: In appropriate administration of the laser can lead to overheating of tissues.
- Contraindications: PBMT should not be used over areas with known or suspected cancer, it also should not be used over areas with no skin sensation and it should be avoided across the abdomen in pregnant animals.
- Patient Comfort: Ensuring the animal remains calm and comfortable during the session is crucial. If the animal shows signs of distress, the session should be paused and reassessed.
Conclusion
Photobiomodulation therapy is an innovative and effective treatment option in veterinary rehabilitation. Its ability to promote healing, reduce pain, and enhance the overall quality of life makes it a valuable tool for managing a wide range of conditions in pets. As a non-invasive and drug-free therapy, PBMT offers a safe and holistic approach to improving the health and well-being of animals.