Frequently asked questions about near-infrared therapy for pets
Why does OsteoVitalis use the two therapeutic wavelengths 808 nm and 850 nm?
These two wavelengths are especially useful for helping modulate inflammation and ease pain. They are used in supportive care for degenerative joint, nerve and muscle conditions, and are also applied in neurorehabilitation and post-operative orthopaedics.
The 808 nm wavelength lies close to the centre of the near-infrared (NIR) optical window and penetrates efficiently through the skin. This allows it to reach deeper tissue layers such as muscles, joints and the periosteum, the membrane covering the outer surfaces of bones. Studies on photobiomodulation (PBM) in osteoarthritis, muscle strain, ligament injury and post-operative recovery show meaningful analgesic and repair-supporting effects at 808 nm. As wavelength increases, tissue scattering decreases, so 850 nm light tends to penetrate slightly deeper on average. This helps reach well-perfused areas and deeper target structures. In combination, 850 nm complements and reinforces the effect of 808 nm, optimising the overall result.
How does OsteoVitalis differ from laser therapy in veterinary rehabilitation clinics?
The therapeutic mechanism is the same, but the OsteoVitalis home device with NIR (near-infrared) LEDs is especially suitable for long-term use in chronic conditions. It is more cost-efficient and saves you and your pet frequent clinic visits.
Whether LED light from OsteoVitalis or cold laser in the clinic, both are based on PBM (photobiomodulation). Light stimulates the mitochondria in the cells and increases the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate). ATP is the central energy carrier and enables cells to perform their tasks. This strengthens the body's own repair and regeneration processes.
The differences lie in the light source and the use scenario:
Clinic devices are cold lasers with focused beams and high penetration depth. They allow shorter sessions. However, if misused, the strongly bundled energy can cause local burns or eye damage. Cold lasers should therefore be used only under veterinary supervision with protective measures.
LED home devices (e.g. OsteoVitalis) have lower energy density because of their individual LEDs. However, the array layout achieves broad-area irradiation. The mechanism of action corresponds to that of the laser used in the clinic. LEDs are more diffuse and therefore safer, making them suitable for longer wear times and home use - ideal for long-term management.
For osteoarthritis, disc problems and similar conditions, pain reduction and rehabilitation are required over several months. A home LED device can support the effect of clinic treatment, help maintain long-term therapy, lower costs and spare you and your pet frequent journeys.
Is the device safe for pets?
Yes, the OsteoVitalis light therapy device is safe for dogs and cats. It is developed specifically for animals, meets European safety standards and is CE, RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) certified.
⚠ Contraindications - do not use in:
· Young animals whose bones and tissues are not yet fully developed
· Tumour disease
· Pregnancy
· Open wounds
· Hyperthyroidism
· Implanted pacemakers or other medical implants
Will my pet feel noticeable heat during OsteoVitalis infrared therapy?
The device uses near-infrared wavelengths (808 nm, 850 nm) and does not work through conventional heat generation. Unlike heat therapy devices, it acts primarily through light energy in the tissue. Pets therefore usually feel only mild warmth, or no warmth at all. This is normal. Even if little heat is perceived, sufficient therapeutic near-infrared (NIR) energy is delivered. The device is working correctly.
How does OsteoVitalis differ from other products on the market?
OsteoVitalis is designed specifically for dogs and cats, and differs fundamentally from "human-and-pet" combination devices in dose safety and ease of use:
Scientifically aligned dosing for animals
· Conventional red light devices are developed for humans and do not account for species-specific factors such as body weight, skin thickness, fur coverage and tissue structure.
· PBM (photobiomodulation) follows a biphasic dose-response curve: only an appropriate dose supports regeneration, while doses that are too low or too high may reduce effectiveness or increase risk.
· OsteoVitalis optimises the dose based on animal physiological parameters, keeping irradiance within a safe and effective range.
Close-to-skin, form-fitting fixation - better effect, hands-free for the owner
· Light penetration is limited, so intensity decreases quickly as distance increases.
· OsteoVitalis is fixed directly over the target area, reducing energy loss and improving local effect.
· The device can remain attached to the animal without the owner constantly holding it in place. This improves comfort and adherence to the care routine.
Cordless power supply - less visual burden
· Mains power can create flicker. Dogs and cats have higher flicker-fusion frequencies than humans, meaning they may be more sensitive. OsteoVitalis therefore uses a mobile power supply to avoid AC-related flicker.
· At the same time, the pet can move freely, allowing therapy to fit smoothly into everyday life.
Unlike many shared human-pet products, OsteoVitalis is consistently optimised for dose safety, light use and animal comfort - supporting high effectiveness while prioritising pet health.