What is therapeutic laser?
Therapeutic laser is a light-based modality used in veterinary medicine and rehabilitation.
The equipment delivers specific wavelengths of light to a selected area according to the veterinarian-directed plan.
It is one of several modalities that may be available during veterinary rehabilitation.
Is therapeutic laser used for every rehabilitation patient?
No.
The availability of a modality does not mean that every patient needs it.
The rehabilitation veterinarian considers the patient's medical history, evaluation, rehabilitation goals, and other relevant information before determining whether therapeutic laser is appropriate.
What happens during a laser session?
During a therapeutic laser session, trained staff use the laser equipment according to the patient's established plan.
The area being treated and the settings used depend on the individual patient and the veterinarian's direction.
Appropriate laser safety procedures are followed during treatment.
Is laser therapy a complete rehabilitation program by itself?
Veterinary rehabilitation is broader than any single modality.
A rehabilitation plan may involve therapeutic exercise, aquatic activity, other rehabilitation services or a combination of approaches depending on the patient.
Therapeutic laser, when used, is one component of the overall plan rather than a substitute for evaluation.
Why does ATC require veterinary direction?
Therapeutic laser is used as part of veterinary care.
The rehabilitation veterinarian evaluates the patient and determines whether the modality is appropriate within that animal's care plan.
This is why ATC does not recommend laser therapy for an individual pet online or over the phone without the appropriate veterinary process.
What should owners expect?
If therapeutic laser is included in a patient's plan, the ATC team will explain how it fits into that patient's rehabilitation care.
The number and timing of visits, when applicable, depend on the individual plan rather than a universal schedule.
