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Terms and Definitions: Laser: Light Amplification by Simulated Emission of Radiation. Radiation: Radiation is energy that comes from a source and travels through some material or through space. Light, heat and sound are types of radiation. Therapeutic Laser: Used to reduce pain and inflammation, and reduce healing time. It is also called a cool laser. While it emits heat, this is a gentle heat vs surgical lasers which emit enough energy and heat to explode cells. CO2 Laser: Also called a surgical or cutting laser. This is used to damage cells in a controlled manner in order to make an incision. Photon: Tiny particles which emit and absorb Light. Wavelength: is measured by nanometers and indicates the penetrating power and peak absorption of the light energy emitted. The therapy laser emits 2 possible wavelengths, both are invisible to the naked eye. Multi modal approach to pain: Treatment of pain utilizing many different applications such as: Pain medications, nutrition, dietary supplements, exercise, therapy laser, weight control, joint injections, etc. Joules: This is the dose of energy that laser therapy is measured by. FYI: Lasers are classified into 4 categories by scientific and government agencies. Class 1: Laser printers, Class 2 Bar: code scanners, Class 3: Some therapeutic lasers and laser pointers (this class requires eye protection), Class 4 lasers include cutting lasers, therapeutic lasers, space program lasers, etc. Why use a therapeutic laser? Therapy lasers can reduce pain and inflammation, stimulate healing, and prevent scarring. They are non invasive and are virtually risk free. Is laser therapy used in human medicine? Yes, many chiropractors, podiatrists, physical therapists and sports trainers are using the therapy laser. How will KAH be using the laser? We will be using the laser as part of a multi modal approach to pain control and for treatment of certain chronic conditions such as otitis externa and lick granuloma. Is the therapy laser safe for pets? When used by a trained staff member the laser is a very safe procedure. Most pets will find the sessions enjoyable and relaxing as the soft heat of the laser is used over the body. Is the therapy laser safe for me to administer? All class 3 and 4 lasers carry a risk of severe eye injury if they are used improperly. Everyone in the room during a laser procedure will be required to wear laser protective eyewear. Never look down the barrel of the companion laser. No other known risks to the provider. **LiteCure is an FDA registered manufacturer providing FDA cleared products for a variety of medical applications. How does it work? The light energy that is emitted by the laser is absorbed by tissues which then results in greater circulation, clearance of cellular waste, faster healing times, reduction of inflammatory chemicals, and prevention of scarring or fibrosis. It increases the cell’s metabolism and allows for more rapid cellular repair. Will it work for every pet? Unfortunately not all pets will experience a significant improvement in clinical symptoms. What conditions will we be recommending the therapy laser for? Arthritis, soft tissue injury, dermatitis, otitis externa, granuloma, post surgical, FUS, and more. The use of the laser will be determined by the veterinarian in charge of the case. Will the laser cure problems by itself? The laser is intended to augment current medical treatments and not be used as a sole treatment. We will still provide all the other treatments you are accustomed too, but now we can add laser care to our program. Can the laser be used to stimulate acupuncture points? Yes the laser can be guided over acupressure points for needless stimulation.
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