Certified LLLT, Cold Laser, PBM Practitioners

Who do we treat?

Our practice is centered around horses. However, we also enjoy working with dogs and other small animals. The process works well on any animal, large or small, with musculoskeletal injuries or disorders.

What is it?

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), cold laser therapy, or photobiomodulation (PBM) is a form of therapy that applies low-level (low-power) lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to the surface of the body. Whereas high-power lasers are used in laser medicine to cut or destroy tissue, the application of low-power lasers relieves pain or stimulates and enhances cell function. The effects appear to be limited to a specified set of wavelengths, and administering LLLT below the dose range does not appear to be effective. That's where we come in.

What can we treat?

Data proves that LLLT is useful in the short-term treatment of pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, and possibly chronic joint disorders. A 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis found evidence for pain reduction in osteoarthritis. While it does not appear to improve pain in temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders, it may improve function.

There is also tentative evidence of benefit in tendinopathy. A 2014 review found benefits in shoulder tendinopathy. A 2014 Cochrane review found evidence that it may help with frozen shoulders. 

In addition, there is significant anecdotal evidence of the efficacy of PBM for treating equine conditions including:

• Muscle, tendon & ligament stress and injuries
• Pain management from trauma & post-surgical wounds
• Inflammation & swelling
• Wound healing including degloving injuries
• Degenerative disc disease & more

How it Works

When the right wavelength at the right intensity is used at the correct location for the right amount of time, cells are stimulated leading to repair, reduced inflammation, and pain reduction.

The primary mechanism is the effect of light on cytochrome c oxidase and consequently the unbinding of nitric oxide and release of ATP leading to improved cellular function. A measurable reduction has been observed in the PGE2, TNF Alpha, and IL-6 in the synovia surrounding damaged tendons. High-intensity lasers over nerve supply can inhibit fast axonal flow and result in an analgesic effect.

Below you can download a great resource for additional information from Thor, their main PBM equipment supplier, and the source of some of the information in this section.