What is Laser or Light Therapy?
Low level laser & LED Therapy or “Photobiomodulation”, is the use of specific wavelengths of light (red and near infrared) to create therapeutic effects. These effects include improved healing time, pain reduction, increased circulation and decreased swelling. The light may be provided by a low power laser or LED (light emitting diode).
What is its history?
The effects of red light in cellular function have been known since 1880 however the clinical benefits were only discovered by accident during laser safety tests in 1967. The first low-power lasers suitable for treating pain became available commercially in the late 1970’s and ever since then, laser therapy has been widely utilized in Europe by practitioners. Now, after FDA approval in 2001, laser therapy is quickly gaining popularity in the USA.
Has effectiveness been demonstrated scientifically?
Yes. There are thousands of published studies demonstrating the clinical effectiveness of laser therapy. Among these, there are more than one hundred rigorously controlled, scientific studies that document the effectiveness of laser for many clinical conditions.
Cold Laser and Light Therapy is use of near infrared light over wounds and injuries to stimulate healing and give pain relief.
It is a safe, painless treatment that can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions.
What health problems have been shown benefits from Laser Therapy?
Soft Tissue Injuries
What does research demonstrate?
What advantages does Laser Therapy have over other forms of therapy?
It does not require the use of drugs or surgery, there are less side effects or risks, and it is quick and
convenient. Studies have shown that it is equal to or more effective than other forms of therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it hurt? What does a treatment feel like?
There is little or no sensation during treatment -
occasionally one feels a mild, soothing warmth, or
tingling.
Are there any side effects or associated risks?
During more than twenty years of use by healthcare providers all over the world, very few side effects have ever been reported. If a patient is allergic to light then they may get a rash or blister for a few days.
How long does each treatment take?
The typical course of treatment for the Cold Laser Therapy is five minutes depending on the size the area is being treated.
How often should a patient be treated?
Acute conditions may be treated , three to four times a week depending on the severity of the pain. More
chronic problems respond better when treatments are received 2 to 3 times per week tapering to once a week or once very other week, with improvement.
How many treatments does it take?
This depends on the nature of the condition being
treated. For some acute conditions 1-6 treatments may be sufficient. Those of a more chronic nature may require 10 to 15 ( or more) treatments. Conditions such a sever arthritis may require on going periodic care to control pain.
How long before the results are felt?
You may feel improvement in your condition ( usually pain reduction ) after the very first treatment. Sometime you will not feel improvement for a number of treatments. This does not mean that nothing is happening. Each treatment is cumulative and results are often felt after 3 to 4 sessions.
Can it be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment?
Yes, Laser Therapy is often used with other forms of therapy. Other healing modalities and treatments are complementary and can be used with Laser to increase the effectiveness of the treatment.