By Summer Griffin, DVM
The Opioid Crisis brings K-Laser Therapy to the Forefront
If your pet has recently been spayed, neutered, had a molar tooth extracted or even had a broken bone set with an orthopedic plate then there is a high probability your pet received a powerful pain reducing medication known as an opioid. Examples of these potent pain reducing medications are morphine, methadone, fentanyl, buprenorphine and butorphanol.
There is currently an opioid shortage in America. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is starting to limit the use of certain opioids for ongoing pain management in the veterinary field. Therefore, we need to have alternative therapy options for for pain management. The K-laser therapy is an option. K-Laser therapy can be a big part of a multimodal pain management program. It can be paired with acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, and hydrotherapy, as well as with medications and supplements. Our K-Laser machine provides a non-pharmacological, non-evasive, advanced therapeutic solution to reduce inflammation and aid in pain relief.
What is K-Laser?
K-Laser is a Class IV FDA cleared therapeutic treatment that manages pain and inflammation while accelerating tissue regeneration.
What are the K-Laser Therapeutic Effects?
During each painless treatment, laser energy increases circulation drawing water, oxygen, and nutrients to the damaged area. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, function is restored and pain is relieved.
What to expect with a K-Laser treatment appointment
There is no patient sedation required and the experience is usually pleasant and comforting to your pet. The initial consultation will be scheduled with our veterinarian to establish veterinary/client/patient relationship and determine the best course of action.
For most conditions we recommend a multi-visit treatment plan since the benefits are cumulative in nature. A sample schedule would be:
week 1 – every other day for 3 total treatments,
week 2 – two sessions,
week 3 – one session,
then booster treatments as needed.
K-Laser treatment times vary in length, but most sites require 2-8 minutes per therapy session.
When will my pet start feeling better?
Some changes might be noticed after only one treatment, but most clients notice a difference in their pet’s reduction of pain by treatment three.
Are there any contraindications to K laser?
A therapeutic laser shouldn’t be used in certain cases. Applying a laser over a tumor site could accelerate the tumor growth. It shouldn’t be used over a pregnant uterus, either. Lastly, laser should not be used with a recent corticosteroid injection or use of corticosteroids.
What can K laser help with?
Tooth extraction healing sites, gingivitis, stomatitis, otitis, hematomas, IVDD, lick granulomas, pododermatits, arthritis, neuropathy, cystitis, IBD, lameness, hip dysplasia, anal saculitis, post surgical incisions, and infected and chronic wounds are some examples.
Ready to set up a treatment schedule?
Call us today! 619-741-5366
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