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Laser acupuncture is an innovative therapy that combines Traditional Chinese Medicine principles with modern laser technology. As this treatment gains popularity among humans and animals alike, many questions arise. This article addresses the top 15 frequently asked questions about laser acupuncture, including its use on dogs and horses.
1. What is laser acupuncture?
Laser acupuncture is a non-invasive therapy that uses low-level lasers (red light therapy) to stimulate traditional acupuncture points on the body. It aims to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being without the use of needles.
2. How does laser acupuncture work?
Laser acupuncture works by applying low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to traditional acupuncture points on the body. This technique combines ancient Chinese medicine principles with modern photobiomodulation concepts. LLLT, also known as photobiomodulation, uses low-power lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate cellular function.
3. Is laser acupuncture painful?
No, laser acupuncture is generally painless. Unlike traditional acupuncture, there's no skin penetration, making it a comfortable experience for most patients.
4. What conditions can laser acupuncture treat?
Laser acupuncture is used to treat various conditions, including:
Chronic pain
Musculoskeletal disorders
Headaches and migraines
Allergies
Digestive issues
Stress and anxiety
Equine practitioners use laser acupuncture to treat muscle strains, injuries, and chronic pain conditions. Laser acupuncture has been used to address respiratory issues in horses.
Research on adolescent rats demonstrated that laser acupuncture could influence longitudinal bone growth and increase serum concentrations of insulin-like growth factor-1.
Some veterinarians use laser acupuncture to treat neurological disorders in animals, although more research is needed in this area.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine (2021) found that photobiomodulation therapy (PBM) using red and near-infrared light was effective in treating chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The therapy improved functional capacity and reduced dyspnea and leg fatigue in COPD patients.
5. How long does a laser acupuncture session last?
Typically, a laser acupuncture session lasts between 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the number of points being treated and the specific condition. Typically applying light to each point for 30 seconds to 2 minutes.
6. How many sessions are needed to see results?
The number of sessions varies depending on the condition being treated and individual response. Some people may experience relief after a single session, while others might require a series of treatments over several weeks.
7. Are there any side effects of laser acupuncture?
Laser acupuncture is generally considered safe with minimal to no side effects. Some patients may experience mild tingling or warmth at the treatment site, but serious adverse effects are rare.
8. Can laser acupuncture be used on animals?
Yes, laser acupuncture is increasingly used in veterinary medicine, particularly for dogs and horses. A study on cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy showed that laser acupuncture was effective for postoperative pain management.
9. How is laser acupuncture beneficial for dogs?
Laser acupuncture can help dogs with various conditions, including:
Arthritis and joint pain: A 2020 study demonstrated that dogs with arthritis who received laser therapy experienced reduced pain levels, as assessed by both veterinarians and pet owners. The study reported improvements in quality of life after the first session, with continued enhancement over an eight-week period.
Muscle strains and injuries: Research on dogs with osteoarthritis has shown that laser therapy can provide superior pain relief and improved mobility compared to traditional treatments alone.
Post-surgical recovery: research has shown that laser therapy can aid in post-operative recovery for dogs
Skin problems: Some studies have reported significant improvements in wound healing for dogs receiving laser treatment
Neurological disorders: A case study of a 6-year-old Boykin spaniel named Max, who had suffered a spinal disc injury, showed improvements in mobility and muscle tone over 10 months of laser therapy treatment.
10. Is laser acupuncture safe for horses?
Yes, laser acupuncture is considered safe for horses. It's non-invasive nature makes it particularly suitable for sensitive or anxious horses.
11. What conditions in horses can be treated with laser acupuncture?
Laser acupuncture can be used to treat several equine conditions, such as:
Musculoskeletal pain and injuries: A 2020 study by Zielinska et al. divided 26 Warmbloods with tendon and ligament injuries into two groups. Those receiving laser therapy showed improved healing compared to the control group.
Respiratory issues: Acupuncture has been used to treat various respiratory issues in horses, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Digestive problems: Acupuncture has been used to treat gastrointestinal motility issues in horses. Studies have shown that electroacupuncture can affect gastrointestinal motility and blood concentrations of endocrine substances.
Performance enhancement: RLT helps with the stimulation of ATP production, which fuels cellular function and improved circulation and transport of oxygen and nutrients
Wound healing: Red light therapy has been shown to stimulate collagen production, which is crucial for wound healing
Some veterinarians use laser therapy alongside acupuncture to increase blood flow to the uterus in mares with repeated reproductive loss
Acupuncture has been reported to be useful for chronic diarrhea in foals and has been used to treat intestinal impaction in horses.
12. How does laser acupuncture differ from traditional acupuncture?
The main difference is the use of low-level lasers instead of needles. This makes laser acupuncture non-invasive, potentially more precise, and often quicker to administer. In traditional acupuncture theory, acupoints are locations where Qi (vital energy) can be accessed and manipulated. Laser acupuncture applies LLLT to these specific points, believed to stimulate the flow of Qi and promote balance in the body's energy systems. From a Western medical perspective, these points often correspond to areas rich in nerve endings, blood vessels, and lymphatic structures. This non-invasive approach may be particularly beneficial for patients who are needle-phobic or in cases where needle use is contraindicated or for those who want the benefits at home without needing to use needles.
13. Can laser acupuncture be combined with other treatments?
Yes, laser acupuncture can often be safely combined with other treatments, including traditional medicine, physical therapy, and other alternative therapies. Always consult with your healthcare provider or veterinarian before combining treatments.
14. What types of lasers are used in laser acupuncture?
Laser acupuncture typically uses low-level lasers, also known as cold lasers. These are usually red or near-infrared lasers with wavelengths ranging from 600 to 1000 nanometers. The specific type and power of the laser may vary depending on the condition being treated and the practitioner's preference. Another name for these types of lasers are red light therapy lasers. This safe for home use version uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to penetrate the skin to varying depths to interact with cells and tissues.
15. Who should avoid laser acupuncture?
While generally safe, laser acupuncture may not be suitable for everyone. It should be avoided or used with caution in the following cases:
Pregnancy (certain points)
Active cancer sites
Epilepsy (certain points)
Always consult with a qualified practitioner before undergoing laser acupuncture treatment.
Final Thoughts
Laser acupuncture offers a modern twist on an ancient healing practice, providing a non-invasive option for both humans and animals. By combining the beneficial effects of both acupuncture point stimulation and the healing effects of Red Light Therapy, Laser Acupuncture is an easy home run! It's no surprise this treatment can be effective in helping treat so many different conditions in humans, horses, dogs and more!
Looking to start Red Light Acupuncture on yourself or your animal? Check out our Torch!
As with any medical treatment, it's essential to consult with a qualified practitioner to determine if laser acupuncture is right for you or your pet. With its growing popularity and expanding applications, laser acupuncture continues to be an intriguing field in complementary holistic medicine.
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