Laser therapy as a complementary support for laminitis: A comprehensive review

Laminitis is a serious condition that affects many horses and can cause significant pain and lameness. Acute laminitis is a veterinary emergency: if it is not diagnosed and treated immediately, it can lead to rotation or sinking of the coffin bone and thus to permanent, irreversible damage. If laminitis is suspected, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately. In addition to veterinary treatment, some practitioners use laser therapy . Currently, there is no scientifically proven, universally valid effectiveness.

What is laminitis?

Laminitis, also known as laminitis, is a complex and painful condition characterized by inflammation of the sensitive laminae of the hoof. This condition can be triggered by various factors, including nutritional deficiencies, obesity, metabolic disorders, or mechanical stress. The inflammation leads to a separation of the hoof capsule from the sensitive laminae, resulting in severe pain and lameness. In severe cases, rotation or sinking of the coffin bone can occur, potentially causing permanent damage to the hoof. Therefore, prompt veterinary diagnosis and treatment are crucial for the long-term outcome.

How laser therapy works

Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment method that utilizes light energy. The laser penetrates the skin and is intended to stimulate the cells. Whether and to what extent this leads to faster regeneration or inflammation reduction is a matter of ongoing research, but has not been conclusively proven scientifically. Research on laser therapy in general suggests that certain wavelengths could stimulate cell activity, promote blood circulation, and influence the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate); however, this research pertains to laser therapy in general and has not been specifically investigated using our devices or in the context of laminitis.

Discussed, but unsubstantiated, aspects of laser therapy for laminitis

• Possible pain relief: The influence of laser therapy on blood circulation and inflammation, and a resulting reduction in pain, is discussed; however, there is no scientific evidence.
• Possible influence on inflammation: A possible influence on cell activity and inflammatory processes is discussed; however, there is no scientific evidence. Inflammation of the sensitive laminae in laminitis always requires veterinary treatment.
• Possible effects on healing: A potential influence on cell regeneration and the production of collagen and other proteins relevant to tissue repair is discussed; however, there is no scientific evidence to support this. Laser therapy does not replace veterinary treatment for laminitis.

For whom can laser therapy be considered as a complementary treatment?

Laser therapy can be a complementary option alongside veterinary treatment for horses with veterinary-diagnosed laminitis – both in the acute and chronic phases. The application is non-invasive; however, a complete exclusion of side effects is not possible. Important: Laser therapy should never replace or delay the necessary veterinary diagnosis and treatment – ​​such as dietary management, medication, orthopedic shoeing or physical therapy – but can at best supplement it.

Important instructions

It is important to note that laser therapy and similar complementary therapies are not yet scientifically recognized in Germany. Therefore, no promises of a cure should be made. Laser therapy can only be considered as a supplementary measure alongside veterinary treatment.

Conclusion

Laminitis is a serious, potentially acute condition that requires immediate veterinary diagnosis and treatment. Laser therapy can, at best, be used as a complementary treatment alongside this care; current scientific evidence does not support its universally applicable effectiveness. If you would like to learn more about this complementary treatment method, please discuss with your veterinarian whether laser therapy is suitable for your horse.