Retrospective Observational Study and Analysis of Two Different Photobiomodulation Therapy Protocols Combined with Rehabilitation Therapy as Therapeutic Interventions for Canine Degenerative Myelopathy

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this retrospective review was to examine the impact that adding photobiomodulation therapy (PBMt) to rehabilitation therapy had on the pathology of degenerative myelopathy (DM) in canine patients. Background: Canine DM is a progressive, fatal neurodegenerative disease for which there exists a dearth of effective treatments, limiting clinicians to pursue symptom palliation. Methods: Clinical records of dogs referred for presumed DM to a specialty rehabilitation facility were screened for patients meeting study criteria. Qualifying patients were divided into two groups: Protocol A (PTCL-A) and Protocol B (PTCL-B) group, based on the PBMt protocol used. Data related to demographics, diagnostics, rehabilitation protocols, and progression of clinical signs were collected. Data were analyzed to determine differences in outcomes between the two treated groups and historical data expectations, as given by a previously published study. Results: The times between symptom onset and euthanasia of dogs in the PTCL-B group: 38.2-14.67 months (mean-SD), were significantly longer than those of dogs in the PTCL-A group: 11.09-2.68 months. Similarly, the times between symptom onset and nonambulatory paresis (NAP) or paralysis of dogs in the PTCL-B group: 31.76-12.53 months, were significantly longer than those of dogs in the PTCL-A group: 8.79-1.60 months. Further, Kaplan-Meier survival analysis showed that the times from symptom onset to NAP of dogs in the PTCL-B group were significantly longer than those of dogs in the PTCL-A group (Mantel-Cox Log Rank statistic = 20.434, p < 0.05) or the historical data group (Mantel-Cox Log Rank statistic = 16.334, p < 0.05). Conclusions: The data reviewed show significantly slower disease progression-longer survival times-for patients in the PTCL-B group than those in the PTCL-A group or published historical data. Further studies are warranted.

A randomized double-blinded controlled trial on the effects of photobiomodulation therapy in dogs with osteoarthritis

“…44 PBMT has a documented anti-inflammatory effect, attributed to an improvement in circulation, 45,46 while also aiding in slowing degenerative myelopathy progression. 47 This anti-inflammatory effect may be responsible for the part of the effect we observed in PBMT. The same effect may also be why lower values were recorded in both thermographic views of joints in the PBMT during the treatment period and was still recorded at the +30-day evaluation.…”

Reversible tetraplegia in a dog caused by a transoral penetrating stick injury

“…Laser therapy for spinal cord diseases in dogs has limited evidence, as it is uncertain if enough light reaches and is absorbed by neural cells of the spinal cord. In comparison, cadaver studies in mice and rats verified an effect 28–30 . Supplementary to regular physical rehabilitation, perseverance and support of the pet owner are essential parts of the management, as returning to normal neurological function can take a long time.…”

“…In comparison, cadaver studies in mice and rats verified an effect. [28][29][30] Supplementary to regular physical rehabilitation, perseverance and support of the pet owner are essential parts of the management, as returning to normal neurological function can take a long time. This dog was ambulatory 3 weeks after surgery.…”

Functional neurorehabilitation in a dog with acute non‐compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion

“…It is reported by studies in rats 48,49 and in humans 50,51 that another mechanism of action of PBMT is to reduce oxidative stress and skeletal muscle fatigue with doses similar to those delivering anti‐inflammatory effects 43,47 . Different studies in veterinary medicine also confirmed these mechanisms of actions and effects, 16,20,52–55 and the most recognised explanation for these is based on the fact that cytochrome c absorbs light from 500 to 1100 nm due to specific properties of this large molecule. Therefore, when under PBMT, the cytochrome will be excited and break bonds with nitric oxide, allowing an easier bond with oxygen and thus leading to the production of cytochrome c oxidase.…”