In this case series, 29 horses ranging in age from 3 months to 26 years old were treated with local laser therapy and laser acupuncture for acute and chronic tendonitis of the superficial digital flexor tendon and suspensory ligament including rupture of the superficial digital flexor tendon in 2 cases. A 904 nanometer (nm) gallium arsenide laser with a 90-watt (W) peak pulse power was used. Laser stimulation was applied both locally over the affected tendon to improve collagen synthesis and aide tissue repair as well as acupoints that stimulated the immune system and decreased inflammation. Resolution of lameness and return to previous use was accomplished in 97% of the cases following treatment. Local laser therapy along with laser stimulated acupuncture points was the only therapy used on the tendons in this case series with no adjuvant therapies such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs. Continued athletic performance at recheck 1 to several years later of horses included in this case series had a success rate of 90%. This series of cases clearly demonstrates the combination of local laser therapy and laser acupuncture to be an effective healing method in patients with tendonitis and tendon rupture. The importance of choosing the optimal laser for this therapy is highlighted.
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Download Categories: 2016, Articles, Case Series
Download Tags: 904 nm pulsed laser, acupuncture, equine, superficial flexor tendon, suspensory ligament, tendon rupture, tendonitis
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