Managing Pain in Our Patients

MANAGING PAIN IN OUR PATIENTS – SO MANY OPTIONS

We know animals are masters at hiding pain. And so many go untreated, diminishing their quality of life. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the pain. Some common approaches include:

1. Medications

Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): To manage pain and inflammation in pets.
Opioids: In cases of severe pain (i.e. after surgery) or trauma.
Steroids: Used for inflammation and pain management, typically short-term.
Gabapentin: Often prescribed for nerve pain or chronic pain conditions.
Corticosteroids: Helpful in treating inflammation and reducing pain in specific cases.

2. Physical Therapy

Hydrotherapy: Gentle on the joints, improves mobility and reduces pain.
Massage Therapy: Helps to relax muscles, increase circulation, and assist healing.
Laser Therapy: Can stimulate healing in tissues and reduce pain and inflammation.
Range of Motion Exercises: Helps to improve mobility and flexibility, especially after surgery.

3. Supplements

Joint Health Supplements: Products like glucosamine and chondroitin can be used to support joint health and reduce the progression of arthritis.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Help reduce inflammation and are often recommended for joint pain and arthritis.

4. Integrative Therapies

Acupuncture: Can help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Herbal Treatments: Some herbal remedies, such as turmeric or CBD oil have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

5. Surgery or Interventional Treatments

Joint Replacement: In severe cases of arthritis or injury, joint replacement surgery may be an option.
Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive surgery may help with joint issues.
Epidural or Nerve Blocks: In some cases, targeted injections can provide pain relief.

6. Environmental Modifications

Orthopedic Beds: A supportive, soft bed can help reduce joint stress and improve comfort.
Ramps or Stairs: Help pets with joint or mobility issues get on furniture or into cars without straining.
Weight Management: Essential to reduce the risk of pain associated with age and osteoarthritis.

Featured Treatment: K-Laser

One of the techniques we use frequently in our practices for pain management is K-Laser therapy, a therapeutic treatment that manages pain and inflammation while accelerating tissue regeneration. Laser energy increases circulation, drawing water, oxygen, and nutrients to the damaged area. K-Laser targets damaged tissue with specific wavelengths of light that have been found to interact with tissue and accelerate the healing process. This therapy can stimulate all cell types, including soft tissue, ligaments, cartilage, and nerves. FDA-approved, K-Laser is a scientifically proven treatment for a variety of conditions. The treatment is typically done in short sessions, and the veterinarian will usually recommend multiple sessions over a period of time to see the full benefits. It’s considered safe, painless, and well-tolerated by pets. Call for information on pricing or to schedule an appointment for one of your patients.

Common conditions treated with laser therapy in pets include:

Burns
Chronic Wounds
Edema and Swelling
Hip Dysplasia
Joint Pain
Ligament Sprains
Muscle Strains
Neck and Back Pain
Osteoarthritis
Post-Surgical Pain
Post-Traumatic Injury
Rehabilitation
Tendonitis

At AEHV and AEHD, our commitment has always been to serve as your outsourced veterinary emergency and critical care hospital. Being accessible, easy to work with, and a resource you can count on is what we do.

We thank you for the privilege!

Diane Johnson, DVM

Our animal emergency hospitals in Ormond Beach and DeLand are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. For more information about our services or to make a referral, please call 386.252.0206 (Ormond Beach) 386.252.0337 (DeLand), or email us at info@animalervolusia.com.

Breaking News: Be on the lookout for our brand new hospital in Palm Coast, opening in 2025!

Animal Emergency Hospital Volusia

696 S. Yonge St, Ormond Beach, FL 3217 4

OPEN 24/7

386.252.0206

Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand

2100 E. New York Ave., DeLand, FL 32724

OPEN 24/7

386.252.0337

If you need additional brochures or magnets, please reach out to us at info@animalervolusia.com.

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