Laser (Photobiomodulation / Cold Laser / LLLT)
Laser is a light energy therapy which is applied directly to the area using a hand held probe. It has been found to be most effective upon superficial vascular tissues such as open wounds, nerve, muscle and tendon sheath. Laser can be applied to enhance healing and can also be utilised to provide localised pain relief.
Therapeutic Ultrasound (US)
Ultrasound is a painless mechanical vibration therapy which is delivered using an ultrasound probe and gel, directly onto the skin. It has been found to promote healing, aid tissue relaxation, increase local blood flow, and break down scar tissue.
Ultrasound is best absorbed in high collagen tissues and therefore is most effective on fascia, ligament, tendon, joint capsule and scar tissue.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
PEMF uses a pulsed magnetic field therapy to influence the tissue. It has several settings which are aimed toward, pain relief, vasodilation (increasing blood flow), or vasoconstriction (decreasing blood flow).
PEMF is a useful pain relief therapy as it is easy to apply, has a deeper depth of penetration than other therapies and it very easy to apply. It is simple for owners to utilise at home between treatments when appropriate.
We have a limited number of PEMF units available for hire.
Transcutaneous Electrical Neurological Stimulation (TENS)
TENS is a way of providing pain relief. The machine can be set to either distract the nerves from sending pain signals to the brain or by stimulating the brain to release natural pain relieving chemicals. TENS can be utilised to reduce both acute and chronic pain alongside any medication that your vet has prescribed. This is particularly useful if your dog cannot tolerate certain pain relief medications or when the maximum dose has been reached but does not seem enough.
TENS is applied with small gel pads creating a comfortable sensation. Many dogs find the treatment very relaxing and some fall asleep throughout the session.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)
NMES is a comfortable electrical stimulation therapy. The stimulation creates muscular contraction with the aim of strengthening muscles. This is beneficial in cases of specific muscular atrophy (muscle loss). NMES is applied with small gel pads in a similar way to TENS.