Light Therapy — Wound Healing in Horses

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Understanding LED Light Therapy

LED light therapy represents a revolutionary approach to accelerating the body's natural healing processes. At Kaiyan Medical, we utilize specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase, a crucial photo acceptor within cellular mitochondria. This targeted photon energy increases cellular energy production, dramatically accelerating the healing process.

The Science Behind Our Dual-Wavelength Approach

Our therapeutic success stems from precise wavelength selection and controlled dosage delivery. Our light therapy pads incorporate two complementary wavelengths:

Visible Red Light (660nm)

  • Efficiently absorbed by surface skin layers
  • Optimal for stimulating trigger points and acupuncture points
  • Highly effective for treating surface wounds and infections

Near-Infrared Light (850nm)

  • Penetrates deeper tissue layers
  • Targets tendons, ligaments, bones, joints, and muscle tissue
  • Essential for treating structural issues below the surface

Comprehensive Treatment Applications

The synergistic combination of red and near-infrared wavelengths provides therapeutic benefits for a wide range of equine conditions:

  • Soft tissue injuries and inflammation
  • Ligament and tendon problems
  • Musculoskeletal issues: sore backs, necks, shoulders, and hips
  • Joint problems: stifle issues, arthritis pain, and general joint soreness
  • Circulatory concerns: swelling and salivary gland problems
  • Surface trauma: wounds, cuts, scrapes, and sprains
  • Therapeutic point stimulation: trigger points and acupuncture points

Clinical Challenges in Equine Wound Healing

When treating equine dermal injuries such as lacerations or deep abrasions, horse owners face significant challenges in optimizing healing outcomes while minimizing scarring, particularly in high-motion areas.

According to Catherine Whitehouse, M.S., advisor for Kentucky Equine Research, "In horses, dermal injuries can be slow to heal, cause excessive scarring, and prolong a horse's layup. In some cases, especially wounds of the limbs, proud flesh may develop in response to exuberant healing efforts."

Recent Research Developments

Swedish LED Study Findings

Recent Swedish research investigated photobiomodulation using LED technology for wound healing acceleration. The study utilized pulsating visible red light combined with near-infrared (NIR) light to evaluate healing enhancement potential.

Whitehouse explained the research motivation: "Some research shows that LEDs stimulate wound healing and decrease swelling and inflammation. With this in mind, veterinarians were hopeful that low-level light treatment could expedite wound repair in horses."

Study Methodology and Results

The research team conducted a controlled 25-day study involving eight healthy horses:

  • Test subjects: Two circular skin wounds created on each horse's neck
  • Treatment protocol: One wound received combined red and NIR light therapy for 4 minutes and 40 seconds on designated treatment days
  • Control group: The second wound on each horse remained untreated
  • Assessment methods: Photographic documentation and ultrasound evaluation for swelling degree

Key Findings: The study revealed no significant differences in wound area or swelling degree between treated and untreated wounds, leading researchers to conclude that red and NIR light therapy showed no clinically relevant positive effects on equine wound healing in this particular study.

Alternative Wound Healing Strategies

The veterinary community continues exploring various wound healing enhancement methods, including:

Important Safety Considerations

Professional veterinary consultation is essential for all significant wounds. Extensive wounds involving substantial blood loss or tissue damage require immediate medical attention and should be treated as veterinary emergencies.

Research Citation

Michanek, P., T. Toth, E. Bergström, H. Treffenberg-Pettersson, and A. Bergh. 2020. Effect of infrared and red monochromatic light on equine wound healing. Equine Veterinary Journal. doi:10.1111/eve.13266.

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