Laser Therapy Success (in progress)

My Sun Conure CJ accidentally flew into a window about a month ago. He lost motion in his legs and feet instantly. We were worried he was paralyzed, but after an immediate visit to the avian vet, she showed us that he still had some feeling in his legs but is suffering from nerve damage and spinal injuries. It has been three weeks since we began physical therapy and weekly laser treatments and I have to say, the laser therapy is AMAZING!! Though results vary between patients and the purpose of the treatment, two days after CJ got his first treatment, his legs were flushed and we could see circulation starting to come back. He has been able to grasp lightly to different sized perches that I use during physical therapy to strengthen his muscles in his legs, but is still unable to stand on his own. We also got him a wide ladder that we made a small incline with on top of his padded floor in his cage. He practices several times per day climbing up and down by himself and doesn't have to fear falling through if he gets tired.

I recommend to anyone to at least try the laser treatment (my av uses the k-laser) if there are any avian injury cases similar to CJ's. I do recommend that you ask for the treatment to be performed in front of you (you will have to wear funny glasses and protect your bird's eyes from the laser). I say this because the machine is quite small and mobile and there really isn't a reason for your bird to go in the back to get it done unless your bird may become stressed in your presence. CJ wasn't very well behaved during the first treatment but he mostly didn't like the restraint during treatment. Also, if the av doesn't personally do the therapy, be sure that whoever does it has been certified to give the laser treatment (a good av wouldn't allow someone uncertified to provide therapy to a client).

We also were given supplements: one is the sunshine factor dietary supplement in a packet and and HBD booster to mix in a pound of his food. He seems to not mind eating it and I'm sure it is helping him recover as well.

I was told that the care and time given after an injury is usually when a bird's health and immune system deteriorates because the bird requires so much care. I was not going to let that happen. It has been time and energy consuming caring for CJ during this whole ordeal, but seeing him doing so well and responding to treatment makes everything worth it.

... To be continued.

Whooo Awesum progress! I would like to learn more about this laser therapy. Using a laser used to mean cutting but I know there is new excitement about using laser treatment. I'm glad to hear your little one is progressing well with his recovery with this.

how wonderful that there is some progress...I hope it continues and that your little one is back to full health SOON!

I've never heard of laser therapy for parrots before, it sounds really interesting. Is it new? Its great to hear he's doing better :0)

Its been about two and a half months since CJ flew into a window and lost mobility in his legs. Today, he is about 95% better. He can climb and perch for a short period, but he does not have stamina in his leg muscles. After about ten seconds, he gets tired and would rather rest his rump on my hand than hold himself up. I have been working with him to take a few steps each day towards his favorite treat, a piece of papaya. It is tough to watch, but he is always eager to show me that he can walk (even if it is little by little). Regardless, he has made such great progress from when he couldn't even hold himself up and would drag his feet behind him.

His best friend is our Lutino Lovebird, Tweety Bird. Tweety Bird didn't understand why CJ couldn't keep up with him like he used to and it took a while for him to realize why. Sometimes I catch Tweety helping CJ get up a ladder or rope toy by head butting him from underneath. I think it is the most adorable thing -- Birds are amazing.

We raised CJ's perches and toys back to where they used to be and we constantly find CJ climbing all around his cage like he used to. CJ's new rehab exercises are geared at working on his muscle stamina and he is still getting laser therapy every 3-4 weeks.

Truly remarkable and SO touching!!! Your 2 fids have one special bond, and a VERY special guardian

Thank you for the update. I had goosebumps reading this.

It's been an emotional journey for our entire family (furry, feathered, and human) and for a while we felt alone -- like we were the only family dealing with this. I never wish this feeling upon anyone -- I hope CJ's story will provide someone with support and hope through their difficult time.

It has been six months since CJ flew into a window and his legs and feet have been recovering ever since from nerve damage. Today, I wanted to share that he used his feet for the first time since his accident to eat a small cracker!!! Luckily, I was able to snap a pic of him in the act!! He is my little waddler and is able to pick up his feet by shifting his weight in order to walk around. His mobility has made great progress and he can now get around the house (slowly) without too many issues. We are so proud of our little conure. He proved to us that he is not a victim!!!

WOW!!!!!

REMARKABLE! Thank you SO much for this update. It just put a HUGE smile on my face.

I love laser.. I used to work for a vet clinic, and it's amazing what laser can do!!

I am really glad that your little guy is all better He has an amazing bird mommy!!

Keep up the great work!