Yes, there is a scientific basis. The OsteoVitalis device uses photobiomodulation (PBM), sometimes called cold red light. It emits near-infrared (NIR) light at 808 nm and 850 nm, acting directly on the cells' "energy centres" - the mitochondria.

Animal and laboratory studies have found that red and near-infrared light can accelerate wound healing and support muscle recovery.

A similar principle has been used in human medicine for many years: low-level laser therapy (LLLT), which is regarded as a safe and effective physical therapy.

Numerous clinical studies and reviews confirm that red light therapy can support skin and musculoskeletal health. It may also help ease chronic inflammation and pain.

OsteoVitalis is therefore not "pseudoscience", but a drug-free, non-invasive and safe supportive therapy based on extensive basic research and clinical practice.

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.

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.

Red light at around 600-700 nm is mainly suitable for superficial skin applications. It remains primarily in the epidermal and other superficial tissue layers. For deeper targets such as muscles and joints, it is generally less effective than near-infrared light at 808/850 nm. Superficial tissue also absorbs the energy more readily and converts it into heat, which can increase the risk of local overheating or skin burns if wearable red light bands are used incorrectly. OsteoVitalis uses 808 nm and 850 nm to support deeper targeted use with strong safety.

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

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.

Yes, long-term use is even recommended. OsteoVitalis can be useful both for short-term recovery and in two longer-term scenarios:

· Preventive use: In animals with genetic predisposition, such as joint disease or disc problems, regular long-term use may help maintain tissue health and delay potential onset.

· Long-term care for chronic conditions: In degenerative wear-related conditions such as osteoarthritis or slipped discs, continuous PBM (photobiomodulation) may help reduce inflammation, ease pain and improve joint mobility.

Quality of life can be positively supported as a result.

Mechanism and effects

· Mechanism of photobiomodulation (PBM): near-infrared (NIR) light at 808/850 nm is absorbed by cytochrome c oxidase in the mitochondria, the cell's power plants. This produces useful cellular effects: the efficiency of the electron transport chain is increased. ATP (adenosine triphosphate) formation is stimulated. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are modulated at a low level. Chronic inflammation is reduced. Repair-associated gene expression is regulated, meaning tissue repair and regeneration are promoted.

· Through gentle, sustained stimulation, PBM helps balance metabolism in joints and soft tissues and slow degenerative changes. This creates significant value in chronic care

OsteoVitalis is a safe complementary therapy for long-term use - both in acute phases and in long-term care for chronic degenerative conditions, as well as prevention in at-risk patients.

The service life of the OsteoVitalis device depends mainly on the LEDs and the battery.

· LEDs: Output gradually decreases over time. This is a normal ageing process. When output falls to around 50-70%, effectiveness may noticeably decline. For best results with regular use, we recommend replacing the device after about two years.

Battery: With proper care, battery life is about one to two years. A decrease in capacity after one year is normal. If runtime affects use, the battery can be replaced separately. Overall service life is usually around two years, depending on your pet's condition and daily frequency of use.

Please watch the official instruction video on our website. It shows step by step how to apply the hip model correctly.

⚠ If your pet has special health conditions, please consult your veterinarian before use.

No protective glasses are required for normal use of the device. Whether light can cause photochemical eye damage depends mainly on two factors:

1. Ionising vs. non-ionising radiation - the 808 nm and 850 nm wavelengths used by OsteoVitalis are near-infrared and non-ionising, meaning they do not have enough energy to cause ionising damage. UV light is different and can directly harm the eyes.

2. Exposure route and intensity - do not stare directly into the LEDs at close range. Use the device as intended on the body area and keep it away from the eyes.

The visible spectrum for humans is about 400-700 nm. Light outside this range is invisible to the naked eye. Our device works at 808 nm and 850 nm in the near-infrared range, outside the visible spectrum, so the LEDs may appear dim. This is normal and does not mean the device is weak or not working.

OsteoVitalis FreeHip was developed for high wearing comfort and maximum freedom of movement. The lightweight design and soft adjustable straps fit different body shapes, helping prevent pressure points and rubbing. Wear tests show that normal walking, lying down and getting up are not noticeably restricted. Most pets accept the device after a short familiarisation period. For best fit and effect, choose the correct size for your pet's build and adjust it carefully. A relaxed lying position during use helps support even exposure.

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.

Thanks to its rechargeable design, OsteoVitalis can be used flexibly without depending on power sockets. It is suitable for many everyday situations:

Home care: on the sofa, bed or resting area for daily wellness support

Rehabilitation: support at home after surgery or injury

On the go or while travelling: portable design for use away from home

Relaxation after activity: helping relax muscles and calm joints after walks or training

Cordless charging makes OsteoVitalis easy to integrate into daily life.

Choose the goal (care or therapy) and the main problem (soft tissue or bone/joint). Press the MODE button briefly to cycle through three modes:

Mode M: muscle care (M LED slowly flashing, 808 nm) for relaxation and recovery of muscles, soft tissues and nerves.

Mode B: bone/joint care (B LED slowly flashing, 850 nm) for deeper joint-related support.

Mode M+B: combined mode using both wavelengths for broader support.

Duration depends on your pet's body weight. Please follow the reference table for pet weight and treatment duration by mode. Follow the recommendations in the instructions.

⚠ If special health conditions or parallel treatments are present, consult your veterinarian before use.

The frequency depends on the goal:

Care: Generally once or twice per week. The frequency should be adjusted according to tolerance and effect.

Therapy: Week 1: once daily; weeks 2-4: three to five times per week; after week 4: up to four times per week depending on tolerance and result.

⚠ In special circumstances, please follow your veterinarian's recommendation.

With a full charge, mode M+B allows about six to seven 15-minute sessions. Full charging takes approximately 2.5 hours.

Yes. Three timer options are available: 5, 10 and 15 minutes. After you select a time, therapy starts automatically and shuts off safely when the time ends. This helps prevent overuse and keeps the session duration consistent.

OsteoVitalis FreeHip works with low-voltage direct current that is well below international safety limits. The device has been safety-assessed for typical pet-use scenarios. Brief licking or touching does not cause electric shocks.

The infrared LEDs are solid-state light sources without glass or mercury. The outer encapsulation is made from bite-resistant, corrosion-resistant materials with good mechanical strength to withstand ordinary licking or nibbling.

Note: Persistent chewing can damage any electronic device, impair electrical insulation or optical performance and reduce effectiveness. Please supervise the session and store the device promptly in its case afterwards to keep it out of your pet's reach. This extends the device's service life and increases long-term safety and stability.

Increasing the treatment duration or application frequency is not recommended. Light therapy follows a biphasic dose-response curve:

· Within the recommended dose, it supports tissue repair and reduces inflammation and pain.

· Exceeding the dose does not increase effectiveness and may even reduce it. To avoid overuse, please follow the application frequency.

Care: Once or twice per week, depending on tolerance

Therapy: Week 1: once daily; weeks 2-4: three to five times per week; after week 4: up to four times per week depending on tolerance and result.

Session duration: Select the appropriate time based on your pet's body weight.

⚠ For special health conditions or parallel therapies, please follow veterinary guidance.

No, the LEDs in OsteoVitalis cannot be removed or replaced. The device has an integrated sealed design; the LEDs are specifically selected and calibrated to provide a stable dose, consistent performance and safe use. If performance becomes noticeably weaker after long-term use, please contact customer service.

FreeHip was developed specifically to support hip and knee problems in dogs and cats, helping with inflammation control and pain relief. It is suitable both for long-term prevention before disease onset and after the acute phase has subsided. It helps ease inflammation and reduce pain. In this way, the OsteoVitalis FreeHip light therapy device can improve animals' quality of life as part of rehabilitation. It is suitable for joint and periarticular problems of different causes, including:

Hereditary conditions: e.g. hip dysplasia (malalignment of the hip joint)

Developmental disorders: e.g. patellar luxation (dislocation of the kneecap)

Sports-related or accident-related injuries: e.g. rupture/strain of the cranial cruciate ligament, iliopsoas injury

Degenerative or age-related conditions: e.g. lumbosacral stenosis (narrowing in the spinal canal), osteoarthritis (cartilage degeneration)

In these cases, FreeHip can be used as part of comprehensive management together with pain medication, anti-inflammatory treatment, surgical measures and further rehabilitation. Extensive research and clinical practice support a supportive, pain-relieving effect. For dog breeds with genetic predisposition, such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Rottweilers, Poodles, French Bulldogs and others, preventive use from adulthood is recommended even without symptoms, to reduce risks and delay disease onset.

Important notes: FreeHip must not be used in the acute phase. It is not suitable for open wounds or sensitive areas such as the eyes. The device is intended as complementary physiotherapy and does not replace veterinary diagnosis or treatment. The specific plan should always be determined individually by a veterinarian.

The principle of OsteoVitalis FreeHip corresponds to low-level laser therapy (LLLT) used in clinics. The difference is the light source: lasers are used by professionals in practice, while FreeHip uses LED emitters. The biological mechanism is comparable, but home use is safer and simpler.

Red and near-infrared light can stimulate mitochondrial activity and support tissue repair. For pets, a wearable LED array makes regular supportive use at home more practical.

The time until effects become noticeable depends on the cause, severity and individual differences, as well as on the time PBM needs to trigger its cascade reactions in the body. Red and near-infrared light are mainly absorbed by chromophores such as cytochrome c oxidase. This supports ATP formation, nitric oxide signalling, reactive oxygen species signalling, inflammatory modulation and repair-related gene expression. Improvements therefore tend to build gradually rather than appear suddenly.

Acute or marked pain: Some animals may show functional improvement after one to two weeks, roughly five to ten applications, such as jumping onto the sofa again or moving more willingly. Post-operative or injury recovery often benefits from a higher-frequency phase of about six weeks, followed by maintenance.

Chronic conditions: In degenerative conditions such as osteoarthritis, most animals need three to six weeks of regular use before clearer improvement is seen. Consistent long-term use works best alongside weight management, joint-friendly exercise and veterinary-guided medication where needed.

Prevention and maintenance: PBM may support cellular repair, collagen synthesis and angiogenesis. Preventive effects require regular long-term use and do not replace routine veterinary care.

The infrared PBM (photobiomodulation) used by OsteoVitalis is well documented as supportive therapy for degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis, especially chronic forms resulting from accidents, developmental abnormalities or ageing.

In the short term it improves local circulation, reduces inflammatory mediators and modulates neural sensitivity. Many dogs experience reduced pain after only a few sessions, move more easily again and resume everyday activities such as jumping onto the sofa, with a noticeable improvement in quality of life.

In the medium to long term: regular use helps dampen synovial inflammation, slow cartilage degeneration and promote collagen synthesis and tissue repair. Whether the damage is traumatic, developmental or age-related, PBM can have a positive effect.

Less dependence on medication: Under veterinary supervision, longer-term light therapy may help gradually reduce the use of systemic analgesics, thereby relieving the liver and kidneys and lowering the risk of side effects. OsteoVitalis therefore offers a safe, scientifically grounded infrared option that usefully complements medication, weight management and rehabilitation training. It helps ease pain, slow progression and support long-term well-being.

Yes. The FreeHip illumination area covers the soft tissues and joint structures around the hip and knee. It can be used as supportive adjunct care on the symptomatic area and preventively on an asymptomatic area that does not yet show impairment. When hip problems cause compensatory overload, moderate exposure around the peripatellar muscles (around the kneecap) may help support stability.

That depends on fur colour and density, as both directly influence how light penetrates the tissue.

Dark fur has a higher melanin content and absorbs more infrared light than light fur.

Dense fur can scatter or block light, making it harder for photons to reach the target tissue.

In such cases, light shaving or trimming in the treatment area can be useful to improve effectiveness.

Light and short fur absorbs less light and barely interferes with penetration, so irradiation usually reaches the area without shaving.

OsteoVitalis FreeHip is a wearable infrared device with a low-energy LED array and close-to-skin fit. Within the safe power range, the closer it sits to the skin, the better the penetration and therapy effect. Moderate trimming of the fur reduces optical losses, improves the fit at the treatment area and helps deliver maximum benefit.

Yes, OsteoVitalis is designed to provide safe, effective support in different situations:

1. Rehabilitation: During recovery after surgery or injury, PBM (photobiomodulation) supports cellular repair, accelerates wound healing and reduces pain and inflammation.

2. After physical exertion: Intensive activity can cause tiny muscle damage or joint discomfort. Use supports muscle relaxation, improves local circulation and accelerates recovery.

3. Daily care: Long-term, regular use helps maintain joint and muscle health, especially preventively for seniors or animals with chronic risk.

Mechanism: OsteoVitalis uses 808/850 nm near-infrared (NIR) light, stimulates mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase, increases ATP (adenosine triphosphate), modulates inflammatory responses and activates repair-related cytokines. In this way, it offers ongoing support in acute rehabilitation, after exertion and in long-term care.

Yes, OsteoVitalis can be particularly beneficial for animals with liver disease, because pain-relieving active substances are often metabolised hepatically (in the liver) and can burden the liver. Infrared light therapy offers a safe alternative for easing pain and inflammation without systemic medication burden in the body.

Scientific basis of OsteoVitalis:

PBM (photobiomodulation) mechanism: 808/850 nm light is absorbed by mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase.

Cellular effects:

· Increase in ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production -> energy supply for damaged cells and accelerated repair

· Modulation of inflammatory mediators -> inflammation and pain are eased

· Improvement of local circulation -> nutrient and oxygen supply are improved

· No additional drug conversion -> no additional liver/kidney burden

For dogs and cats with liver disease that cannot receive analgesics long term, OsteoVitalis offers a safe, non-invasive and drug-free option for pain management.

In general, OsteoVitalis does not affect the action of oral medication, because photobiomodulation (PBM) works through cellular energy supply and tissue repair rather than hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) pharmacokinetics. It therefore does not add to the medication burden and does not affect drug distribution. Because conditions and medications vary, always consult your veterinarian before combined use.

Scientific basis:

No metabolic interference: PBM at 808/850 nm stimulates mitochondrial ATP (adenosine triphosphate) formation and modulates inflammation without affecting liver or kidney metabolism. Direct conflicts with drug metabolism are not expected.

Potential synergy: Improved circulation and repair processes may support the effect of anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medication.

Recommendations:

1. Tell your veterinarian about all medications.

2. If certain active substances cause light sensitivity, such as some antibiotics or antiepileptics, avoid direct exposure over affected areas.

3. Arrange regular follow-ups to assess response and monitor progress. In most cases, combining PBM with oral medication is safe, ideally under veterinary guidance.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common chronic joint condition in dogs and cats, caused by injury, developmental abnormalities or age-related wear. As it progresses, mild discomfort can become significant pain and restricted mobility, making thorough management essential.

A holistic OA plan typically includes five pillars:

1. Surgery: Severe joint damage or deformity may require surgical intervention.

2. Physical therapy (rehabilitation): PBM (photobiomodulation)/IR (infrared) therapy, acupuncture, massage and hydrotherapy can improve joint mobility and help ease pain.

3. Pain medication: NSAIDs and corticosteroids are often prescribed. Long-term use requires blood tests to monitor liver and kidney function.

4. Nutritional support: Glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 fatty acids and collagen support cartilage health and help reduce inflammation.

5. Lifestyle adjustments:

· Weight management can significantly reduce joint load.

· Regular low-impact activity, such as swimming and gentle walks, is recommended while avoiding overexertion.

OsteoVitalis is one component of comprehensive OA management. Combining surgery, rehabilitation, medication, supplements and lifestyle measures can help reduce pain over the long term, improve mobility and slow disease progression.

To give pets and owners enough time to get used to the product, and in line with the EU Consumer Rights Directive, OsteoVitalis grants a 14-day return period for all wearable red light products for pets, starting on the day the customer or a designated person receives the goods.

Within this period, a return with full refund can be requested. Returns must be sent within the 14-day period and include the full name and order number. Items sent after the period expires will not be accepted.

To protect hygiene, safety and product quality, the following conditions apply:

1. Product and packaging are complete, undamaged and free from contamination; all accessories and instructions are included.

2. The product surface is clean and free from pet hair, dander, stains and odours.

3. The device was not used for an extended period, but only briefly tried on for fit.

4. If use, contamination or damage makes the product unsuitable for resale, OsteoVitalis reserves the right to refuse return.

5. Return shipping costs are borne by the customer unless there is a quality defect or shipping error.

Because this is a wearable care device with direct skin contact, please observe the following hygiene and safety points:

· Before testing, make sure your pet's skin is healthy and free from inflammation or skin disease.

· Keep the device clean and dry during fitting and use.

· Stop use immediately if discomfort or skin changes occur, and consult a veterinarian.

· If you intend to return the product, please do not continue using it. Keep the packaging complete and clean, without hair residues.

After receiving and checking the return, OsteoVitalis will arrange the refund within 14 working days. If the product does not meet hygiene or condition requirements, the refund may be refused.

· For returns for personal reasons, such as unsuitable size, the pet not liking the product or no longer needing it, the customer bears the return shipping costs.

· For returns caused by product defects or shipping errors, OsteoVitalis bears the return shipping costs.

Please report shipping damage or visible defects within 14 days of receiving the goods. This does not affect your two-year statutory warranty right under EU law.

For quick handling, send clear photos or videos, including outer packaging, product details and shipping label, together with the order number and a short description to info@osteovitalis.eu. If we confirm a quality or shipping defect, we will offer free replacement or refund. Damage caused by misuse, biting or scratching is excluded from warranty.

All OsteoVitalis wearable red light devices for pets are subject to a two-year statutory warranty (Legal Guarantee) in the EU.

The warranty applies to original devices purchased through the official website or authorised specialist retailers, only for the original purchaser, and is not transferable.

The period begins on the product delivery date.

Covered are failures due to material or workmanship defects under normal use. Within the warranty period, OsteoVitalis will repair or replace the defective product free of charge (for discontinued models, an equivalent replacement device will be provided).

⚠ For safety reasons:

· Individual components are not replaced separately; the entire device must be sent in for inspection.

· The complete device, including all components, must be returned so warranty eligibility can be assessed.

Not covered in particular:

· Damage caused by biting or scratching by the animal

· Misuse, improper maintenance or cleaning

· Unauthorised modifications or repairs

· Loss or theft of the product

These provisions do not limit mandatory statutory consumer rights.