Senior dog wearing protective goggles while receiving therapeutic laser treatment on hind leg

Therapeutic Laser Therapy

Therapeutic lasers use light waves of a specific wavelength to cause photobiomodulation, or the alteration of cellular and tissue physiology. Light absorbed by cellular components stimulates electrons and activates cells to promote growth, proliferation, migration, and repair.

Laser therapy Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness is used for many veterinary medical conditions, including:

  • Chronic arthritis
  • Surgical incisions
  • Tendon and ligament injuries
  • Traumatic injuries

The type and depth of tissue that responds to laser therapy Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness depends on the wavelength of the light that is delivered.

Laser Therapy For Tissue Repair

Most therapeutic lasers Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness use red or near-infrared light, which has a wavelength of 600–1070 nanometers, although units with green, blue, and violet light, which have lower wavelengths, are becoming more popular.

Laser beams of lower wavelengths are absorbed by superficial tissue, such as the skin, whereas beams of higher wavelengths penetrate deeper to muscles and bones.

Laser therapy helps tissue repair by causing the following:

  • Endorphin release
  • Vasodilation, which increases blood flow to bring in oxygen and cells involved in the healing process
  • Muscle relaxation
  • Decreased inflammation
  • Faster healing and repair

For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness at (908) 454-2273.

Dog lying on mat receiving cold laser therapy on front leg with handheld device
Senior dog wearing protective goggles while receiving therapeutic laser treatment on hind leg

Conditions Treated

Laser and infrared therapy can be used to support healing and pain relief for a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Chronic arthritis and degenerative joint disease
  • Post-surgical incisions and recovery
  • Tendon and ligament injuries
  • Muscle strains and sprains
  • Traumatic wounds and soft tissue injuries
  • Inflammation and swelling

Typical Protocol

Treatments are non-invasive, painless, and usually well tolerated by pets. A laser wand is applied over the targeted area for a few minutes, delivering concentrated light energy that stimulates cell repair, reduces inflammation, and promotes circulation. Most pets relax during the session and may even show immediate signs of comfort.

Session Duration

A typical laser therapy session lasts about 20–30 minutes, depending on the size of the pet, the area being treated, and the condition being addressed. Multiple sessions may be recommended over several weeks for optimal results.