Training & Education: Mastering the Learning Curve with Veterinary Laser Therapy

It’s well-known laser therapy has become a popular treatment option in veterinary medicine due to its effectiveness in managing pain and promoting healing in patients.

However, like with any diagnostic, there’s a bit of a learning curve when mastering the proper technique for the best results.

Invest in training early!

• To find reputable training options, speak to colleagues and specialists who have experience with laser therapy equipment or chat with the vendor from whom you purchased the equipment.

• Prioritizing appropriate training can help ensure:

• Improved patient outcomes

• Proper maintenance and upkeep of laser therapy equipment

• Increase safety & prevent damage

• Extend the longevity of the equipment

When learning a new diagnostic, our teams need time to understand the key takeaways and apply their new knowledge.

Although laser therapy is a reasonably easy diagnostic, we want to avoid a “sink or swim” approach. Our teams are offered supervision and support as they flex their new skills.

This might include:

• Making time for questions as they get comfortable with the new tool

• Allowing some professional development time to read articles on the topic (tips, safety, etc.)

• Offering supervision and affirming correct techniques to help build confidence

• Quick reference guides in an easy-to-find location

We also want to set clear expectations around their responsibilities and what to do if concerns or an emergency arise. Take time to review what they’ll be responsible for with these new skills and what is outside of their scope.

Never discredit the power of hands-on learning

To truly master any new clinical skill requires practice and repetition.

Some people find learning a new diagnostic intimidating. Taking time to offer reassurance and supportive guidance will help build confidence. Learners should feel secure in their new skills, and as their leader, you should trust in their new performance abilities.

Acknowledgment goes a long way. When our team is taking on something new, we often forget how impactful our words are as leaders.

Simply acknowledging and affirming their effort and progress offers individuals validation and encouragement to continue.

Entrusting our teams to carry out diagnostic procedures empowers them to continue to grow their skills, expand their knowledge and gives our veterinarians space to tackle other needs.

Investing in staff training is essential for anyone involved in laser therapy at your practice.

The use of the correct wavelength, power, and dosing parameters can reduce inflammation, accelerate tissue repair, and improve circulation.

Our veterinary teams play a vital role in preparing the equipment and patient, assisting with the procedure, and maintaining our valuable diagnostic equipment.

Even more so, they play a massive part in client education and relaying the value of laser therapy when reviewing estimates or treatment options.

The risks of poor technique in laser therapy can be detrimental to patients and risk poor hospital reputation.

Improper use of the laser can lead to burns, tissue damage, or ineffective treatment, prolonging the healing process and potentially leading to (avoidable) complications.

Have confidence that your teams have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and effectively perform laser therapy, investing in training and continuing education courses.

Like most continuing education programs, these courses allow veterinary teams to learn about the latest advancements in laser therapy, proper treatment techniques, and how to tailor treatment plans to individual patients.

Ultimately, the impact of proper training and technique with laser therapy in veterinary medicine goes beyond the individual patient. It also positively reflects the practice's reputation, enhances client satisfaction, and contributes to the overall success of our teams. 

When you purchase our Supra Therapy Laser Quad, we include comprehensive training to ensure you get the most out of your investment!

Ensuring Efficiency with Veterinary Laser Therapy Treatment

Introduction to Laser Therapy in Veterinary Medicine

Laser therapy has emerged as a valuable tool in veterinary medicine. It offers a noninvasive and practical approach to managing various conditions.

Like any medical intervention, it’s essential to be well-informed about the safety considerations and potential side effects accompanying laser therapy in veterinary patients.

Recent studies have shown that laser therapy is a safe and well-tolerated treatment option for veterinary patients.

According to a survey by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), over 90% of veterinarians reported positive outcomes and minimal adverse effects when using laser therapy.

Ninety percent!

This underscores the growing confidence in the safety and efficacy of this treatment modality for pets!

As an ongoing initiative to provide a safe working/treatment environment, there are several ways you can enhance safety measures for staff and visiting creatures, such as:

 1. Training: Ensure your team has undergone the proper training to operate laser therapy equipment before using it with patients. They’ll want to understand proper handling of the equipment and safety precautions to prevent accidents or injuries.

 2. Protective Gear: does your team have what they need to perform the treatment safely? Although minimal exposure, laser safety glasses, gloves, and aprons can protect your team from radiation exposure.

 3. Regular Maintenance and Calibration: schedule regular inspections and maintenance for your laser therapy equipment, including checking the power output, beam alignment, and cooling systems to prevent malfunctions or overheating during treatments.

While laser therapy is considered safe for most pets, we want to be aware of potential side effects that can occur in rare cases.

Potential side effects of laser therapy in veterinary patients are generally rare and typically very mild, but it’s essential our teams can spot side effects if they occur.

Additionally, we want to educate pet parents about potential side effects and share some guidelines for post-treatment care.

Here are a few things to look out for:

Mild Discomfort: This typically manifests as a slight warming sensation or tingling in the treated area. Adjusting the treatment parameters or using a lower-intensity laser can help minimize discomfort.

Skin Irritation: In rare cases, pets may develop temporary skin irritation, causing redness or swelling at the treatment site. Please watch for any signs of allergic reactions or skin sensitivity.

Changes in Behavior: sometimes, pets may exhibit changes like restlessness or agitation due to the unfamiliar sensation of the laser or discomfort during treatment. Usually, a gentle distraction with treats or comforting affection can help ease their stress.  

By closely monitoring patients and adjusting treatment parameters as needed, we can minimize the risk of adverse reactions and offer a more positive experience during treatment.

Performing laser therapy treatment can also pose some minor potential risks to veterinary team members.

Just like with patients, risks to staff members performing the treatment are rare and typically mild. Still, we want to be sure we’re aware of potential risks to our staff.

Here are a few things to make sure your team is aware of:

Eye Injuries: Exposure to laser radiation causes the potential for eye injuries, including retinal damage or vision impairment. As a preventive measure, be sure your team wears laser safety glasses that provide appropriate protection.

Skin Burns: Improper handling or misuse of laser therapy equipment can result in burns or injuries to the skin. Your team can minimize these risks by simply following safety protocols and guidelines.

Electrical Hazards: Laser therapy equipment operates on electrical power, which runs the (uncommon) risk of electric shock or fires if not handled properly. Be sure your team is up to date on fire safety protocols and procedures, just in case.

By raising some awareness of these potential hazards and making sure your team is prepared to respond, we create the ideal environment to provide optimal care for our patients while minimizing risks to our hardworking team.

Laser therapy holds immense promise as a safe and effective treatment option for a range of conditions in veterinary patients.

Remember, continuing education centered around our ever-evolving field of veterinary medicine is key to a thriving practice and hospital staff.

By staying current on the latest research and guidelines, we can provide safe, effective, and comforting care to our loyal customers and to the teams that make our hospitals tick. 

Empowering Techs with Laser Therapy to Boost Vet Practices

Veterinary technicians play a vital role in the day-to-day operations of veterinary hospitals.

They’re skilled and knowledgeable professionals who assist veterinarians in providing top-notch care to patients.

Veterinary technicians are well known for being the “heart” of the practice. Their superpower is their ability to wear many hats like:

• Reception and kennel assistant

• Patient caretaker and monitor

• Trusted surgical assistant

• Exam room and appointment traffic controller

• Empathetic companion to peers and clients

However, their potential could be more utilized, with many technicians limited to basic tasks like drawing blood, taking X-rays, and administering medications.

Let’s examine one of the easiest ways to grow hospital revenue, empower our veterinary technicians, and expand their role within the veterinary hospital.

 Let’s jump to the point by offering technician-driven laser therapy appointments!

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that can help reduce pain and inflammation and promote healing in veterinary patients.

By allowing technicians to perform these appointments, veterinarians can free up time to focus on other appointments, surgeries, in-patient care, or catching up on charts

Veterinary technicians are more than capable of performing laser therapy treatments. They can confidently and safely administer these treatments to patients with the proper training and support.

There are limited risks to using laser therapy, however, on the off chance a patient experiences an abnormal response, potential adverse reaction, or there’s an equipment malfunction, a veterinarian should always be close by to assist.

What type of laser therapy training is available for veterinary technicians?

I’m glad you asked!

In order to perform laser therapy on veterinary patients, specialized training is needed to ensure they can confidently and safely administer treatments.

Training programs typically cover topics such as laser safety, proper use of equipment, treatment protocols, and monitoring patient response.

Here are some key components of training that veterinary technicians can expect:

 1. Laser Safety: One of the most important aspects of training is understanding laser safety protocols. Veterinary technicians learn about the potential risks associated with laser therapy and how to mitigate them to ensure the safety of both the patient and themselves.

 2. Equipment Operation: They’re trained on how to properly operate and handle laser therapy equipment. This includes understanding the different types of lasers used in veterinary medicine, how to adjust settings for different treatments, and basic troubleshooting.

 3. Treatment Protocols: They can expect to learn various treatment protocols used in laser therapy for different conditions and patient populations. This includes understanding the appropriate laser parameters, treatment durations, and techniques for delivering laser therapy to achieve optimal results.

 4. Patient Assessment: Veterinary technicians are trained to assess patients and understand the indications and contraindications for laser therapy, as well as how to evaluate patient response to treatment.

 5. Hands-On Practice: Hands-on training is an essential component of learning how to perform laser therapy. They may undergo practical training sessions to practice administering laser therapy treatments under the supervision of experienced professionals.

 Overall, these trainings are designed to equip your team with the knowledge and skills necessary to confidently and safely perform treatments on patients.

By receiving comprehensive training in laser therapy, our veterinary technicians can expand their scope of practice, enhance their value within the hospital, and provide high-quality care to the patients in their care.

Enabling veterinary technicians to perform laser therapy appointments can have a significant positive impact on a veterinary hospital in a number of ways.

Let’s look at some key benefits:

 1. Improve Efficiency: Improve the overall efficiency by streamlining the workflow and optimizing the use of resources. By allowing veterinary technicians to handle laser therapy appointments, veterinarians can free up valuable time to focus on other appointments, surgeries, in-patient care, or administrative tasks.

 2. Increase Revenue: Laser therapy appointments are billable services that can generate additional revenue for your hospital. By expanding the services offered by veterinary technicians, the hospital can increase its revenue stream and profitability.

 3. Enhance Patient Care: Patients can receive timely and consistent treatments to help manage pain, inflammation, and promote healing with their trusted technicians, enhancing the overall quality of care provided by the hospital.

 4. Skill Development: Allowing your technician team to perform laser therapy appointments provides them the opportunity to develop new skills and expand their knowledge in the field. This can help boost their confidence, job satisfaction, and professional growth.

 5. Competitive Advantage: Offering technician-driven laser therapy appointments can give the veterinary hospital a competitive edge in the market. By providing a wider range of services and utilizing the expertise of veterinary technicians, the hospital can attract more clients and differentiate itself from competitors.

Offering technician-driven laser therapy appointments is a win-win for both veterinary technicians and your veterinary practice.

It allows technicians to expand their skill set and take on more responsibility while also freeing up valuable time for veterinarians to focus on other business and patient needs.

With the proper training and support, your team of technicians can confidently and safely perform laser therapy treatments, leading to improved efficiency, increased revenue, enhanced patient care, skill development, and a competitive advantage in the market.

Looking to find the best laser therapy unit for your practice?

Check out this article: Veterinary Laser Therapy Equipment: Selecting the Best Option for Your Practice

Laser Therapy in Veterinary Practice: A pain-free Solution

Laser therapy has become an increasingly popular and effective treatment option for various conditions in veterinary patients.

Veterinarians are choosing laser therapy as their preferred treatment approach over traditional, less effective treatment options.

This non-invasive and painless procedure uses light energy to stimulate healing and reduce inflammation, making it a valuable tool for veterinary practices looking to provide the best care for their patients.

Let’s unpack a few specific conditions that have seen particularly successful outcomes using laser therapy treatment.

Laser Therapy Treatment in Veterinary Patients with Arthritis

With arthritis being such a common problem in aging canines and felines, this treatment option is an ideal, low-stress way to offer relief.

Patients with arthritis who have undergone laser therapy treatment experienced:

• · Reduced joint inflammation

• · Increased mobility

• · Faster pain relief

Successful results have been shown to improve the quality of life for pets suffering from arthritis, allowing them to move more comfortably and enjoy the activities they love most.

Let’s look a little closer…

Meet Kona, a 10-year-old labrador retriever with difficulty getting up and moving around. His owners are getting concerned about his quality of life. After a thorough examination, his veterinarian recommended laser therapy as part of his treatment plan.

Over a few weeks, Kona received a series of laser therapy sessions that targeted the affected areas in his hips, helping to reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to his joints.

After just a few sessions, Kona’s owners noticed a significant improvement in his mobility and overall comfort. He could get up and down more easily, walk longer distances without limping, and even start playing with his favorite toys again.

 With the right combination of laser therapy, at-home care, and follow-up appointments, our patients can experience significant improvements in their mobility, comfort, and overall well-being.

By the end of the treatment plan, Kona’s symptoms had decreased, allowing him to be more active and reducing his pain and discomfort.

Laser Therapy in Veterinary Patients with Skin Infections or Wounds

 Laser therapy has been proven particularly effective in patients recovering from skin conditions or puncture wounds.

Whether it's a surgical incision, a bite wound, or a skin infection, this treatment approach can speed up the healing process by increasing blood flow to the affected area and promoting the formation of new, healthy tissue.

Let me introduce you to Kylie…

Kylie is a 4-year-old domestic shorthair who presented with a severe bite wound on her hind left leg.

The exam revealed some infection around the affected area, causing her significant discomfort. Her veterinarian prescribed a series of laser therapy treatments paired with some antibiotics and pain meds.

Kylie's wound showed significant improvement after several laser therapy sessions and consistent wound care at home. The inflammation decreased, and the wound began to heal more rapidly than expected. Kylie's energy levels increased, and she was back to her playful self after just a few weeks

 Laser Therapy Treatment in Veterinary Patients with Chronic Pain Conditions

 This treatment approach is effective in treating chronic pain conditions like:

• · Back and neck pain

• · Hip dysplasia

• · Stomatitis

By using lasers to target specific areas of pain and inflammation, veterinary teams can provide targeted relief for their patients, sometimes without the need for medications or invasive procedures.

Let’s say hello to Navy…

Navy is an 11-year-old German shepherd who presented with debilitating back pain, making it difficult to walk. He showed signs of stiffness and discomfort as he shuffled into the exam room.

His exam indicated x-rays were warranted, which later revealed some spinal abnormalities.

After discussing some treatment options, Navy’s parents shared that they’d prefer a non-invasive treatment approach. They agreed that laser therapy would be the best next step, along with some anti-inflammatory meds to help manage his pain.

 Navy underwent a series of laser therapy sessions targeting the affected areas of his spine.

After a few short weeks, his parents noticed a decrease in his pain level and an increase in his ability to move around more comfortably.

His increased desire to go outside and even brave a small staircase was incredibly encouraging to his parents and veterinary caregivers.

 Toward the end of his treatment, Navy experienced some significant progress. His treatment had significantly reduced his pain levels, allowing him to move more freely. His stiffness decreased, and he regained comfortable mobility in his hind legs.

 Kona, Kylie, and Navy all highlight the effectiveness and value of laser therapy treatment, which played a crucial role in their healing journeys.

While this treatment option may not be warranted in every case, laser therapy equipment has proven a valuable investment for veterinary hospitals that want to provide the best patient care.

Its effectiveness in treating a range of conditions easily makes it a cutting-edge treatment option for patient care.

Vet Laser Therapy Equipment: Selecting the Best Option

Exploring the Different Types of Veterinary Laser Equipment

Laser therapy has become an increasingly popular treatment option for both small and large animal patients in veterinary medicine.

Veterinary laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or cold laser therapy, uses noninvasive laser light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cells at the cellular level.

Understanding How Laser Therapy Heals from Within

The light energy from the laser is absorbed by the cells, triggering a series of physiological responses that promote healing and reduce pain and inflammation.

It’s believed to stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, helping alleviate pain and discomfort in recovering patients.

Laser therapy is a safe and effective treatment option that can be used alone or in combination with other therapies to manage pain, promote healing, and improve patients' overall well-being.

As a non-invasive procedure option, it doesn’t cause discomfort or side effects, making it a valuable tool in veterinary medicine for treating a variety of conditions in both small and large animals.

Several types of laser therapy equipment are available on the market, each with its own unique features and benefits.

Studies have shown that laser therapy can greatly reduce pain and improve mobility in small and large animal/livestock patients.

Veterinarians commonly use laser therapy to promote healing in patients with:

• Wounds

• Post-surgical pain

• Arthritis

• Musculoskeletal injuries

It delivers targeted light energy to the affected area, stimulating the body's natural healing processes and reducing inflammation and pain.

Let’s take a moment to compare three popular types of laser therapy equipment: the 30-watt Animal Therapy Laser, the Companion Laser, and the cutting edge Laser.

Supra Therapy Laser Quad

Supra Therapy Laser Quad This laser is a powerful and versatile option for veterinarians looking to offer or enhance laser therapy services to their patients.

The Supra Therapy Laser Quad delivers a higher energy level than other types of lasers, allowing for deeper tissue penetration and more effective treatment.

Treating Wounds, Arthritis, and More

This particular laser is ideal for treating a variety of conditions like:

• Arthritis

• Muscle strains & sprains

• Post-surgical pain

• Back Pain/IVDD

• Wounds and other dermatologic conditions

The higher energy output of this laser allows for faster treatment times and more efficient pain relief.

Using Surface-emitting Laser Diode (SLD) technology in manufacturing, you can take comfort in its exceptional reliability and extended lifespan, exceeding 30,000 hours.

Deep tissue laser therapy with Surface-emitting Laser Diode (SLD) technology offers a non-invasive, drug-free solution to pain and inflammation, promoting faster recovery and improved quality of life for your patients.

 One key benefit of the 30-Watt Animal Therapy Laser is its ability to deliver consistent and precise treatment to the affected area.

This helps to:

• Reduce inflammation

• Improve circulation

• Stimulate the body's natural healing processes

• Target underlying issues

• Promote faster healing

The versatility of this laser makes it a valuable tool for veterinarians looking to provide effective and non-invasive treatment options for their patients.

 Overall, the Supra Laser Therapy Quad is a top choice for veterinarians seeking a powerful and effective tool for laser therapy treatment.

Its high energy output, deeper tissue penetration, and versatility make it a valuable addition to any veterinary practice looking to offer advanced, non-invasive treatment options for small and large animal patients.

https://newvetequipment.com/supra-therapy-laser-quad

 The Companion Laser

Price - ($30,000 plus)

The companion laser is another popular choice among veterinarians for its ease of use and versatility.

As you might tell from its name, the Companion Laser portfolio is designed specifically for use on companion animals such as dogs and cats.

This user-friendly device is small and portable, making it versatile and easy to transport between different locations.

It’s equipped with various pre-programmed treatment protocols, making it simple for veterinarians to select the appropriate settings for each patient.

This laser’s delivery system and detailed, species-specific protocols help resolve dosing challenges and improve outcomes. 

 The Cutting-Edge Laser

Price - ($25,000 plus)

This laser offers advanced features and is designed for use on both small animal and large animal patients.

The cutting-edge laser has various customizable treatment options, allowing veterinarians to tailor the therapy to each patient's needs.

It offers a higher level of precision and control, making it a great choice for complex or challenging cases.

It’s specifically designed to deliver targeted light energy precisely, stimulating the body's natural healing processes and promoting faster recovery.

 Each laser therapy offering allows veterinarians to provide noninvasive and effective treatment options for a wide range of conditions in animals of all sizes.

The Supra Laser Therapy Quad, Companion Laser, and Cutting-Edge Laser each offer unique features and benefits, allowing veterinarians to choose the best option for their practice and patients.

Choosing the Right Laser for Your Veterinary Practice

When it comes to purchasing veterinary equipment, making informed decisions is crucial.

These investments not only contribute to your practice's revenue but also play a vital role in enhancing your services and the standard of care you provide—especially with significant purchases like lasers.

To ensure you choose the best laser for your hospital, prioritize companies that offer clear and transparent pricing.

This will help you avoid hidden fees or unexpected ongoing costs that can accumulate over time if not carefully considered.

Additionally, be sure to evaluate the cost of the laser in relation to your budget and expected return on investment.

Other key factors to consider are training and warranty. Ensure the vendor provides comprehensive training for you and your staff to maximize the effectiveness of the equipment.

A strong warranty can also offer peace of mind, protecting your investment and ensuring that any potential issues are covered.

It's wise to seek advice from fellow veterinarians or veterinary forums who have experience with similar equipment. Their insights can be invaluable in guiding your decision.

Engage with multiple vendors, and don’t hesitate to ask for connections to other professionals who have purchased similar products. Hearing firsthand experiences can provide you with a better understanding of what to expect.

The Future of Veterinary Care: Integrating Advanced Laser Technology

As laser therapy continues to gain popularity in veterinary medicine, staying up-to-date with the latest advancements in laser equipment is essential.

By doing so, you can ensure you’re providing the best possible care for your patients while making a sound investment in your practice.