Hayabusa has been busy going to the vet recently for laser therapy treatments on her right wing. Many of you know the reason that Hayabusa is with the program is because she has severe patagial (ligament) damage in her right wing and can no longer fly. As a result of the damage done to her wing, she has developed arthritis in her “elbow” and “wrist” joints. In an effort to keep her comfortable, we have provided her with a glucosamine supplement and an anti-inflammatory medication daily for the last couple years. Recently, while discussing the topic of arthritis in falcons with a friend who runs a program similar to ours in Colorado, it was recommended we try laser therapy on Hayabusa.
Laser therapy is the application of a coherent light. The laser light consists of multiple light waves in which all the waves support one another. Laser therapy is a holistic, non-invasive, effective way to treat and manage many different conditions, including inflammation, arthritis, chronic wounds, and more.
The laser beam stimulates cells and tissues, and reduces inflammation so that healing can begin. It is a painless process. The animal might feel a slight tingling sensation as the light enters the tissue and cells, but it is very minimal, if at all. Haya’s treatment sessions last no longer than ten minutes. Below is a short video of the treatment of one area of Haya’s wing.
Hayabusa’s laser therapy session.
While results are not guaranteed on every animal, laser therapy has been proven to be effective in clinical studies and in rehab setting s for the last thirty years in both human medical and veterinary medical.
Our goal for this therapy is that Hayabusa’s arthritis will be reduced and she will be much happier and more comfortable from now on. The areas being treated are not weight-bearing which makes it difficult to assess her comfort level but we have already seen a reduction in the amount of “picking” she does to this area. She once again has feathers on her wing that have been absent for a couple years. Because animals tend to chew, lick, or pick at painful areas, the regrowth tells us that she is experiencing less discomfort in the wing. This is definitely a step in the right direction!