Laser therapy can be used any time a patient needs a drug-less procedure for the control of pain, when conventional therapies have been ineffective, or when the acceleration of healing from injuries is desired.
LLLT is the application of red and near infra-red light over injuries or lesions to improve wound and soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation and give relief for both acute and chronic pain. Red and near infrared light operate between the wavelength of 600nm to 1000nm and is commonly used in LLLT and are typically delivering 10mW - 500mW. The power density typically ranges from 0.005W/cm² -> 5 W/cm².
However, light waves in the near infrared ranges penetrate the deepest of all light waves in the visible spectrum. When low level laser light waves penetrate deeply into the skin, they optimize the immune responses of our blood. This has both anti-inflammatory and immunostimulate effects. When the correct intensity and treatment times are used, red and near infrared light reduces oxidative stress and increases Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP). This improves cell metabolism and reduce inflammation. LLLT is popularly used for soft tissue injuries, joint conditions, neuropathic pain, non-healing leg and pressure ulcers.
It is a scientific fact that light transmitted to the blood in this way has positive effects throughout the whole body, supplying vital oxygen and energy to every cell. For most people, laser therapy is quite passive. There is no pulsating shocks felt, as in forms of electronic stimulation, or heat used as with ultrasound. The most noticeable sensation is the touch of the probe head of the laser, as it comes in contact with the skin.
Generally, the more chronic or severe the condition, the longer it takes to respond. The majority of conditions treated will take anywhere from 4-5 or 10-15 treatments. Once again, the number of treatments depends upon the severity of the condition and it duration. You should notice a difference after 1-2 treatments but it may take 4-5 sessions before a dramatic or marked change is perceived.
In all the years that low level lasers have been tested in research and clinical applications, no adverse side effects or negative impacts have been reported. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies lasers Laser Therapy Systems as "Non-Significant Risk" devices, requiring a minimum of safety precautions. The only precaution is avoid direct viewing of the laser beam. Care should be exercised not to stare into the laser beam or to point it at the eyes, and the use of safety glasses is recommended.
Physiological Effects of LLLT
- Bio-stimulation, including improve metabolism & increased cell metabolism
- Improved blood circulation and vasodilation
- Analgesic effect
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects
- Simulation of wound healing
Benefits of LLLT to Users
- Relieves acute and chronic pains
- Increases the speed, quality and tensile strength of tissure repair
- Increases blood supply
- Simulates immune system
- Stimulates nerve function
- Develops collagen and muscle tissue
- Helps generate new and healthy cells and tissue
- Promotes faster wound healing and clot formation
- Reduces inflammation
According to published medical reports, many acute and chronic conditions may be improved or eliminated with laser use: including:
| Arthritis Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Chondromalacia Patellae Fibromyalgia Heel Spurs/Plantar Fascitis Migraine Headaches Neck Pain/Whiplash |
Back Pain Nerve Root Pain Pots-Operative Pain Repetitive Stress Injuries TMJ Pain/Dysfunction Tendonitis/Tendinosis Tennis Elbow |
Bursitis Neuralgia Trigger Points Sprains/Strains Swelling Wound Healing |
Information on this page is provided for interest only on a "best efforts" basis and does not
constitute personal advice. Always discuss medical conditions and related matters with your doctor.
Source: http://www.vasportsmedicine.com/cold-laser.asp
