Low-level laser therapy, also known as cold laser therapy, is a very effective form of therapy. It does not involve the use of drugs or any surgery. Laser therapy is quick and convenient, with few side effects or risks. It is even more effective for pain relief when combined with chiropractic treatment and other techniques.
Here are some frequently asked questions on laser therapy:
What does cold laser therapy do?
Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) device is used in cold laser therapy. LLLT device has been proven to reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation, speed up the healing process, and strengthen the damaged tissue.
Is cold laser therapy safe?
Yes! Low-level laser therapy has been in use for more than 20 years. Many scientific and clinical studies have proven the effectiveness and safety of cold laser therapy. The FDA has permitted the use of this laser device in the United States.
How long does a cold laser treatment take?
Laser therapy treatment lasts approximately 5-20 minutes. Generally, you need to undergo 8 to 15 treatments. The number of treatments varies according to the factors determined by your doctor. Instant pain relief does not mean that your condition is fully cured. If your doctor or chiropractor suggests a course of therapy, you should complete it to improve the probability of your long-term success.
Does cold laser therapy actually work?
The low-level light energy is used in this treatment. The low-level light energy increases the permeability of the cell, which reduces the pain, inflammation, and swelling. The cold laser therapy accelerates the healing process and restoration of function by turning the light energy into the healing energy.
Various conditions, such as back pain, contusions, tendinitis, neck pain, and muscle pain, can be treated by laser therapy. However, the effectiveness of the results will vary according to how the treatment is delivered in terms of wavelength, dosage, duration, technique, and where the light energy is applied to the body. Cold laser therapy can provide long-lasting results.
What are the benefits of cold laser therapy?
Cold laser therapy is effective in managing pain. Some of the benefits of this low-level laser therapy include:
Anti-Inflammation
Cold laser therapy causes vasodilation (widens the blood vessels) and produces an anti-edemic effect, which helps in decreasing blood pressure. The procedure also helps the lymphatic drainage system to relieve the swollen areas. As a result, the tissue fluid is reduced to a considerable amount causing less inflammation.
Relieves Pain
The cold laser therapy produces an analgesic effect on nerve cells and blocks the pain signals that are transmitted to the brain. With reduced nerve sensitivity and inflammation, there is less fluid collection and less pain. The cold laser therapy also helps in producing high levels of pain-killing chemicals like endorphins and enkephalins from the brain and adrenal glands, which help in reducing the pain.
Improves vascular activity
The cold laser therapy helps in improving the vascular activity of your body by inducing the skin to increase the formation of new capillaries in the injured tissue. As a result of this therapy, wounds heal at a faster rate, and scar tissue is reduced.
Improved metabolism
The cold laser therapy can boost your metabolism by creating a higher output of specific enzymes. Also, the procedure produces more oxygen for blood cells, which helps in increasing metabolism.
Improves your nerve function
When your nerves get damaged, the cold laser therapy can accelerate the speed of nerve regeneration and also improves the amplitude of nerve signals to ensure a faster recovery.
Boost Your immune system
The cold laser therapy directly affects your immune system by stimulating immunoglobulins and lymphocytes. The molecular enzymes absorb the laser light, which increases ATP production. ATP is a source of cell energy and energy source for all chemical reactions in the cell.
Does cold laser therapy hurt?
The treatment is noninvasive and painless. Some people fall asleep during the treatment, whereas some people feel a little sensation or warmth. In some cases, pain can begin or increase after a treatment session. This is when the laser light starts the healing process. People with chronic issues or nerve sensitivity can feel this type of pain. This pain diminishes after a few days and rarely lasts longer.
What does cold laser therapy feel like?
Most patients feel nothing during the treatment. Some patients feel the vibration caused due to the increased blood circulation in the target area. The laser produces no heat, warmth, or burning sensation, so nothing can be felt.
Our Class IV laser therapy combined with chiropractic care, deep tissue massage techniques, and specialized exercise, can help you get relief from pain faster! Schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Berry, an experienced Tustin chiropractor.
If you want to learn more about cold laser therapy and achieve good health, contact our Chiropractic wellness center for personalized treatment.
