Understanding Equine Laser Therapy: What It Does and When We Use

Introduction

Laser therapy is one of the most versatile and evidence-supported electrotherapy modalities in equine physiotherapy. Despite its increasing use, many horse owners are unsure what it actually does, how it works, and when it is appropriate. In this post, we discuss why we use Class 3B therapeutic laser as a core part of the RPM Equine treatment toolkit, explaining the science and the practice.

What Is Therapeutic Laser?

Therapeutic laser — also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation — uses focused light energy at specific wavelengths to interact with tissues at a cellular level. This is fundamentally different from surgical or cosmetic lasers, which work by cutting or heating tissue. Therapeutic laser does not damage tissue — it stimulates it.

At RPM Equine we use a Class 3B laser, which is the standard therapeutic classification used across equine and veterinary physiotherapy practice in the UK. It requires appropriate training and safety protocols (protective eyewear for horse and handler) and delivers treatment at a meaningful clinical dose.

What Does It Actually Do?

The mechanism of action of therapeutic laser is well established in the literature. At a cellular level, it:

•       Stimulates mitochondrial activity — increasing ATP (energy) production in cells, which drives tissue repair

•       Promotes collagen synthesis — accelerating the repair of tendon, ligament, skin, and connective tissue

•       Reduces inflammation — modulating the inflammatory response without suppressing it entirely, supporting controlled healing

•       Promotes angiogenesis — the formation of new blood vessels, improving circulation to the treatment area

•       Reduces pain — through effects on nerve conduction and endorphin release

What Conditions Do We Use It For?

Soft Tissue Injuries

•       Tendon injuries (SDFT, DDFT): applied to the injury site to promote repair and reduce inflammation — can be used from the very early stages of healing

•       Suspensory ligament injuries

•       Muscle tears or strains

•       Wound healing — laser is particularly effective for slow-healing wounds or wounds over bony prominences

Musculoskeletal Conditions

•       Back pain and muscle tension — particularly effective when combined with manual therapy

•       Kissing spines — applied to the affected spinal region to reduce inflammation and pain

•       Sacroiliac pain

•       Arthritis and joint pain — reduces synovial inflammation and improves joint comfort

Post-Operative Recovery

•       Surgical incision healing

•       Reducing post-operative inflammation and pain

•       Supporting tissue repair in the early stages following orthopaedic procedures

How Is It Delivered?

Laser treatment is applied by moving the probe slowly over the treatment area, delivering a calculated dose (measured in joules per centimetre squared) appropriate to the depth of the target tissue and the clinical goal. Sessions typically take 10-20 minutes depending on the size of the treatment area.

Most horses tolerate laser very well — many visibly relax during treatment. The experience is completely painless and non-invasive.

At RPM Equine, laser therapy is available as a standalone treatment or as part of a wider physiotherapy session. Single sessions from £40; courses of 5 from £20/session (in house).

How Many Sessions Are Needed?

This depends entirely on the condition being treated. As a guide:

•       Acute soft tissue injuries: typically 3-6 sessions in the first 2 weeks, then reducing in frequency as healing progresses

•       Chronic conditions (arthritis, long-standing muscle tension): ongoing maintenance sessions, typically fortnightly or monthly once an initial course has been completed

•       Post-operative healing: a course of 4-6 sessions in the first 2-3 weeks following surgery

Laser therapy is most effective as part of a broader treatment plan. At RPM Equine, we always combine electrotherapy with manual therapy and prescribed exercise — because treating pain alone without addressing movement is only half the job.

Ask us about laser therapy at your next session, or book a standalone course. Single sessions from £40. WhatsApp or book online.