There is nothing more distressing than having to watch your faithful furry companion struggling to keep up with you on a walk, even though the tail is still wagging, and the mind is still willing! Chronic and age-related diseases like arthritis affect our pets in just the same way they affect us, slowing us down and causing pain and discomfort. Sometimes anti-inflammatory medicines don't work so well for certain pets, or common side-effects like stomach upsets are no fun for you or your furry friend.
Red light therapy is a non-invasive, drug-free alternative with no known side-effects, that could be just the answer you are looking for in managing chronic pain and inflammation issues. Generally, dogs will tolerate this treatment extremely well as it is not painful in any way, and because of the nature of how this therapy works, it can boost their energy levels and have a positive impact on their overall quality of life. Always check with your vet before starting any new treatments to make sure it is safe and appropriate for your pet and won't affect any other medications your pet is taking and then take a positive step to help heal their ailments naturally.
A Quick Bit of Science
Red light therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or photobiomodulation therapy, is not a new thing. It was first used on humans back in the late 19th century when it was used to treat smallpox and skin tuberculosis (lupus vulgaris). The way it works is by stimulating cellular functions by increasing blood flow to a targeted area using light wavelengths. The light penetrates the skin and stimulates cells to produce more energy, therefore reducing pain and inflammation and increasing muscle recovery. This process also stimulates collagen production and supports cellular health and is also very effective in improving skin health and treating skin conditions.
The Benefits of Red Light Therapy On Certain Conditions
Red light therapy penetrates the skin and reaches the deeper muscle tissues, helping to reduce inflammation and enhance muscle recovery, and is an effective tool for pain management and reducing inflammation. Dogs that suffer from joint pain and arthritis can benefit from increased mobility levels making everyday activities more enjoyable.
Red light therapy also increases collagen production which helps improve skin tone and texture and promotes wound healing in skin conditions such as infections, cuts and burns. It can also be very useful in treating long-term skin conditions such as pododermatitis, which can leave your pet with sore, itchy skin if left untreated.
Simple To Use
Hands-free red light therapy devices in the form of coats or wrap-around products are easy to use. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and make sure your dog is clean and the area to be treated is dry. Maintain a calm environment throughout the session so your dog can relax and monitor progress to ensure they are receiving the most appropriate treatment. Always clean your device before and after use, and help your dog maintain a long and pain-free life.