Laser Therapy for Knee Problems, Helping Dogs with Cranial Cruciate Disease

Increasing number of dogs are blowing out the ligament in their knee called the cruciate ligament. This is similar to what humans do when they run, plant a foot and twist. You know how debilitating that can be. Your knee becomes painful and swollen. Without therapy, it takes months to return to previous function, if it does so.

Research in dogs has shown that laser therapy reduces inflammation and reduces edema. Laser therapy stops white blood cells from flooding the knee and releasing enzymes that damage the cartilage. Laser therapy stimulates cartilage cells within the knee to make new cartilage and stimulates new capillaries to come into the cartilage of the knee.

The new cartilage, new blood capillaries, and blocking of enzymes all work together to improve the knee and reduce pain. Dogs that had been toe-tapping lame are gradually able to bear weight on both hind legs. Thus, laser therapy, along with other forms of integrative treatment, such as swimming, acupuncture, & physical therapy, are wise treatment choices for many lame dogs. This is true whether these dogs have surgical knee repair or are treated conservatively with rest but no surgery.

We use laser and other forms of alternative medicine to treat many dogs with cruciate disease, helping them return to their playful, energetic selves.