What Is Cold Laser or Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Laser Therapy is the application of red and near infra-red light over injured tissue to improve soft tissue healing and provide relief for acute and chronic pain. The intensity of LLLT lasers is not high like a surgical laser, there is no heating effect. The effect of cold laser is photochemical, similar to like photosynthesis in plants. Red light aids the production of ATP thereby providing the cell with more energy which in turn means the cell is in optimum condition to play its part in a natural healing process.
How Does LLLT Work
Like photosynthesis, appropriate wavelengths and power of light, at certain intensities, can increase ATP production at the cellular level by targeting the fourth enzyme in the electron transport chain and increasing its productivity. Increased ATP means increased cellular energy, which aides in more effective pain relief, tissue healing and regeneration.
How Long Are The Treatments & What Are They Like
Treatments can vary in time from seconds to minutes depending on the condition. Research studies show that there may be a dose dependent response, so it may be more effective to treat a condition multiple times at lower doses, rather than applying a single treatment at a high dose. The treatments are painless and there is no immediate sensation from the laser other than it being in contact with the skin. Generally the laser is placed in direct contact with the skin over the affected area.
Are There Any Side Effects or Associated Risks
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. Occasionally some old injuries or pain syndromes may feel aggravated for a few days, as the healing response is more active after treatment.
How Long Does Each Treatment Take
Depending on the size of the area and condition being treated, a typical treatment duration is 5-15 minutes.
How Often Should The Patient Be Treated
Acute conditions may be treated daily, particularly if they are accompanied by significant pain. More chronic problems respond better when treatments are received 2-3 times per week.
How Many Treatments Does It Take
It depends on the condition you are being treated for. Acute conditions can be treated 1-6 times, whereas more chronic conditions may require 10-15 treatments, maybe even more.
How Long Before The Results Are Felt
Improvement may be seen as soon as your first treatment. Sometimes it may take a number of treatments, but this does not mean nothing is happening. Each treatment is cumulative and results are often felt after 3-4 sessions.