What is Laser Therapy?
Laser therapy delivers specific red and near-infrared wavelengths of laser light to induce a therapeutic effect within the body. These include increased circulation, decreased swelling, reduction of pain, and enhanced tissue repair. Laser therapy has been used in Europe since the 1970s and was cleared by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2002.
Therapeutic Effects
The painless application of laser energy promotes increased circulation by drawing oxygen and nutrients to the affected area. This creates an optimal healing environment reducing inflammation, swelling, muscle spasm, stiffness, and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, pain is relieved, and function is restored.
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 sensation. Areas of pain or inflammation may be briefly sensitive before pain reduction.
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. Occasionally, some old injuries or pain syndromes may feel aggravated for a few days, as the healing response is more active after treatment.
How many treatments does it take?
This depends on the nature of the condition being treated. For some acute conditions, 4 to 6 treatments may be sufficient. Those of a more chronic nature may require 6 to 12 (or more) treatments. Conditions such as severe arthritis may require ongoing 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. Sometimes you will not feel improvement after several treatments. This does not mean that the condition is not improving. Each treatment is cumulative, and results are often felt after 3 or 4 sessions.
Conditions Laser Therapy Can Help With
High-power laser therapy can stimulate all cell types, including soft tissue, ligaments, cartilage, and nerves. Some conditions that have been shown to respond well to laser therapy include:
- Peripheral Neuropathy, Fibromyalgia
- Back and Neck Pain
- Sciatic Pain
- Arthritis pain, Degenerative Discs/Joints
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Knee Problems
- Tendinitis, Trigger Fingers
- Bunion Pains, Plantar Fasciitis
- Sprains and/or Strains
- Bruises, Contusions, Burns
- Headaches, TMJ, Sinus Trouble
- Athletic Injuries
- Work-Related and Auto Injuries
Location
