How Effective Is Laser Therapy in Treating Pain?

Pain management solutions are crowding over the internet. From traditional treatment options to medications and alternative therapies, numerous options are available. One such approach is laser therapy, which is becoming widely popular for immediate and effective pain relief. Is it a valuable option for long-term pain relief? Let us find out by understanding laser therapy.

Understanding Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a medical intervention that uses concentrated beams of light to target specific tissues. The light source for this treatment is a laser (Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation). As per a study, the laser emits an exact wavelength of light in a narrow, concentrated beam that may be useful in reducing pain and inflammation related to tissues, ligaments, and tendons. The type of laser used depends on the kind of therapeutic effect required.

Types of Laser Therapy

Depending on the intensity and level of penetration needed, laser therapy can be of two types:

• Low-level laser Therapy (LLLT) is a type of laser therapy that uses low-intensity red or near-infrared light to promote healing and reduce pain. 
• High-Power Lasers: These use higher-power light to achieve deeper tissue penetration and can provide faster pain relief.

How Does Laser Therapy Work?

Low-level laser Therapy (LLLT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin and stimulate cellular function. The primary mechanism involves photons, which the cells absorb, leading to increased ATP production, reduced inflammation, and enhanced tissue repair.

Uses of Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a useful treatment option in pain management and cosmetic and therapeutic resources. The major applications include:

Medical Applications

• Wound healing: Laser therapy helps heal chronic and post-surgical wounds by stimulating cell regeneration and tissue repair.
• Reducing inflammation: Laser therapy's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and pain in arthritis and tendonitis.
• Improves circulation: Laser therapy supports oxygen flow and nutrient delivery to muscles, improving blood circulation. 

Cosmetic Uses

• Treating acne: Laser therapy can reduce acne by targeting the bacteria that cause breakouts and decreasing inflammation in the skin.
• Reducing scars: It helps diminish the appearance of scars by promoting collagen production and remodeling the affected skin tissue.
• Lessening wrinkles: Laser treatments facilitate collagen and elastin production, improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles. 

Therapeutic Purposes

• Pain management: Laser therapy for pain offers a less-invasive procedure to manage chronic pain, offering relief in various conditions.
• Improving joint functioning: Laser treatment can improve joint function and flexibility for those with mobility problems.
• Accelerating tissue repair: Laser therapy boosts quicker healing of injuries by stimulating cell growth and repair.

How Does Laser Therapy Work in Pain?

Low-level laser therapy utilizes the photons in the rays to eliminate pain and improve cell function. It works in the following ways:

• Laser therapy exposes the skin to photons, light particles containing electromagnetic energy.
• The mitochondria absorb the photons, revving ATP production and improving cell activity.
• The boost of energy benefits the injured muscles, accelerating tissue healing, enhancing circulation, and reducing pain. 

Benefits of Laser Therapy

Laser therapy has several benefits due to its various applications in the medical and cosmetic industry. Some of them are:

• Pain reduction: Laser therapy for back pain reduces discomfort and inflammation by blocking pain signals and reducing nerve activity.
• Non-invasion: This treatment option doesn't involve incision or surgery, reducing the risk of complications.
• Faster healing: Laser therapy accelerates healing by increasing cell activity and tissue function.
• Adjunct to other treatments: Laser therapy can be used besides other pain management strategies (physical therapy and medications). 

Choosing the Right Laser Therapy Doctor

While laser therapy is a versatile tool in pain management and other medical applications, choosing the right doctor is essential to maximize the benefits and reduce the risk of side effects or complications. You must look for an experienced professional who has the credentials and follows the highest standards of expertise and care.

Laser Therapy for Long-term Pain Relief

Laser therapy offers a promising solution for chronic pain conditions. It reduces pain and improves function, making it a popular choice. However, consulting a skilled doctor is vital to see if it's right for you. Explore this treatment option and find qualified professionals with us who can help you lead a pain-free life.

Active Chiropractic & Laser Center: Your Trusted Center for Effective Laser Therapy

Led by Dr. Berry, a professional with more than 39 years of experience in helping patients become healthier without drugs, Active Chiropractic & Laser Center is the prime destination for finding effective healing and long-lasting pain relief with laser therapy. Schedule an appointment today or call us at 714-639-(4640) to learn more.

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7 Must Know Tips to Avoid Pain While Traveling

No matter how you travel, comfort is important. If sitting for long periods of time causes pain and discomfort, it is important to be proactive and take measures ahead of time. Preventing pain before it starts is the key to remaining comfortable for the duration of your travel time.



Stretch Often
Stretch often. Keeping the blood flowing is extremely important and will ensure the tissues have the fresh oxygen they need to remain healthy and pliable. It will also give you a chance to move.

Also Read: 4 Effective Alternatives to Manage Pain Without Drugs

Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to keep your tissues hydrated. Sitting for long periods can cause your joints to become stiff and sore. Having water on hand will help ensure that your joints and muscles remain pliable.

Wear Loose Fitting Clothing
Tight fitting clothing can be restrictive and cut off circulation at the joints or other areas that may become tight while you sit through a long drive. Loose fitting clothes allows you to move freely.

Wear Comfortable Shoes
Wear comfortable shoes that will allow your feet to move naturally, while still support your arches and keep your body in alignment while you are walking from place to place.

Also Read: Top Benefits of Using Custom Orthotics for Foot Pain

Plan Ahead
Plan your trip in advance to give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination. Stress and anxiety can lead to tight muscles that cramp and become sore if you sit for long periods of time.

Bring a Pillow
Bring a pillow to put behind your neck. This supports your head and will allow your neck and shoulder muscles to relax while you are forced to sit for hours at a time.

Adjust Your Seat as Needed
Adjust your seat as needed. Even airplane seats have adjustments for the neck and lumbar regions of the back. Change them as your comfort level changes.

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How to Beat Low Back Pain: 5 Strength Exercises Will Help

Simple exercises can strengthen the muscles in the back, abdomen, and legs. The stronger the deep, core muscles become, the less back pain and discomfort a person will feel. Maintaining good muscle tone in the back and lower abdomen can also prevent back strain and other painful injuries.

8 Point Plank
The plank puts stress on the abdominal muscles of the stomach while providing support for the spine. This is not an easy exercise to accomplish although it looks quite simple.

1. Woodpecker
   This exercise begins with a lunge that works the majority of the leg muscles. As the exercise is performed, the muscles of the butt and all areas of the back are also engaged. When performed correctly, it can dramatically reduce low back pain as the muscles become stronger.

2. Adductor-Assisted Back Extension
   This particular exercise works the muscles located deep in the lower back as well as the inner thighs. The more the exercise is performed, the more the hamstrings are strengthened. The exercise also increases flexibility in the arms and upper back.
3. Founder to Forward Fold
   This exercise works in two ways. The founder strengthens the core muscles of the back and abdomen. As the body folds forward, it pulls the hamstrings and the lower back muscles, stretching and strengthening both. Both the founder and the forward fold can be performed independently of one another.
4. Decompression Breathing
   Decompression breathing lengthens the body and makes it so the lungs can expand more fully. This allows more oxygen into the lungs so that it can be better utilized by the body. It also strengthens large muscle groups and prevents lower back pain.

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Is Your Sleeping Position Right or Needs a Change?

Everybody knows that getting enough sleep is important. In fact, you’ve probably read numerous accounts of all sorts of studies that show how important getting enough sleep really is. However, for many people, the quality of sleep they have is often considerably worse than it should be for a variety of different reasons.

Your mattress could be at fault, you could be stressed about your family life or work, or you could just be using the wrong pillow. One thing that many people simply don’t think about when it comes to their quality of sleep though is the position that they sleep in.

That’s because most of us just assume that any position that’s comfortable when our heads hit the pillow is good enough. The truth is that the sleeping position you were most comfortable in as a kid may not be the one that’s best for you.

Over time, the wrong sleeping position can result in serious back pain and really cause problems for you. If you suffer from back pain, keep reading to learn which sleeping position could be best for you and which ones you should avoid at all costs.

If you don’t, back pain could be a major issue for you the rest of your life!

1. Sleeping on Your Back
   
   Many doctors and specialists will tell you that sleeping flat on your back is the best thing you can do for yourself if you experience chronic back pain. The reason sleeping on your back can work so well should be obvious ― it works to keep your spine straight and you’ll avoid twisting your neck and spine through the course of the night.
   
   
   However, many people find it difficult to sleep on their backs if they aren't used to it. For some, particularly those people who sleep on their stomachs, switching to a position where they sleep on their sides for a while may be necessary to make the transition.
   
   
   If you find it difficult to sleep on your back because of lower back pain you may want to consider a mattress topper that’s a bit firmer. Soft mattresses can work well for people who don’t weigh much, but people over 150 pounds may experience some discomfort and back pain when attempting to sleep on their backs.
   
   
   One of the only bad things about sleeping on your back is that it can make sleep apnea and snoring worse.
   
   
2. Side Sleeping
   
   Sleeping on your side is something that you've probably been doing since you were a little kid if you do it on a regular basis. Unfortunately, sleeping on your side can throw your spine out of alignment and make the next day nearly unbearable if you have chronic back pain.
   
   
   While not sleeping on your side can be very difficult, there are a few things you can do to make side sleeping a bit more comfortable and result in less back pain. The most important is to keep your spine straight and properly aligned, and this can be done by putting a pillow that isn’t too thick between your knees. This will help to keep your spine from dipping.
   
   
   The other major thing that you should do if you regularly sleep on your spine is to make sure you aren’t using a very thick pillow or more than one pillow to rest your head. This could throw the top part of your spine and your neck out of alignment in a serious way; resulting in chronic pain that could last for days.
   
   
3. Stomach Sleeping
   
   Sleeping on your stomach is really the worst position according to many doctors and back pain specialists. The reason sleeping on your stomach is so bad is because it forces your neck to turn one way or another while you sleep, and this turning of the neck is going to greatly throw your spine out of alignment. Over time, this can cause serious neck, shoulder and back problems.
   
   
   If you absolutely must sleep on your stomach, using a pillow that’s made of very soft materials or memory foam that contours to your body specifically is your best bet. However, trying to get out of the habit of sleeping on your stomach will wonders for reducing back pain and isn’t an impossible task.
   
   
   The good thing about sleeping on your stomach is that it will help to reduce snoring and sleep apnea, which could result in a better night’s sleep for you if you have those issues on a regular basis.

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Back Pain: Weather is Ruled Out as Culprit in a New Study

There are many old wives’ tales that people tend to take as fact, but more often than not there is little to no proof to them. Usually it takes science and time to debunk these myths.

One such inaccurate “fact” is the idea that back pain is caused or worsened by the weather. According to an Australian study of nearly 1,000 cases conducted between 2011 and 2012, changes in weather do not increase the likelihood of someone feeling more pain or discomfort.

What the Study Examined
A total of 993 cases of acute back pain were compared to information gather from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

The study looked at a range of parameters of the weather and climate:

• Barometric pressure
• Relative humidity
• Precipitation
• Temperature
• Winds and breezes

These parameters were compared to data regarding sudden acute pain reported to primary care clinics. The only parameter that had any correlation to back pain was wind and breezes, but it was only a slight increase in the chance that cases would feel pain.

Comparing Weather Data and Pain Reports
The researchers examined cases that had a range of ailments, although the primary focus was on patients with arthritis. Reported instances of sudden, acute pain in patients’ backs were compared to weather related data from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

Based on the comparison of the reports of pain and weather data, the pain was unrelated to the weather, except for wind. While higher wind speeds seemed to increase the odds that patients would suffer increased pain, the increase was not significant.

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Study Reveals: Rates of Spinal Surgery Varies Across US

Over 30 million Americans receive medical treatment for back pain. When surgery is recommended, the two most common procedures are spinal decompression and fusion. Both surgeries are widely used with varying degrees of success.

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How Infrared Cold Laser Therapy Yields Various Therapeutic Results

Many people are familiar with the idea of laser technology and how it has therapeutic benefits. In fact, there are even television commercials that advertise laser therapy for everything from skin care to pain relief. What most people don’t understand is that there are two different types of laser therapy that are particularly popular.

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Does Spinal Manipulation Enhance a Stroke Risk?

Other than headaches, back pain is at the top of the list of complaints by people. When you see your physician, you are normally scheduled to see a chiropractor to have everything checked out, and to have bones manipulated, aligned, and "put everything back in place.” You realize the bones are being worked on, but rarely does anyone consider that there are blood vessels and nerves attached to these bones. This is where problem can ensue.

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How Herniated Disk Is Diagnosed With Precision

What is Herniated Disk?
A herniated disk or ruptured or slipped disk is an issue with one of the disks or cushions between the vertebrae or individual bones that make up the spine. A spinal disk has a soft center with a tougher exterior. When some of the soft inner portion pushes out through a crack in the exterior, a herniated disk occurs.
Many people do not have any symptoms with a herniated disk. Sometimes the disk can irritate nearby nerves, causing arm or leg pain, weakness or numbness.

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How to Avoid Back Pain This Spring

More than 50 percent of Americans will suffer from some type of back problem during their lifetime. Surprisingly, many problems are due to poor spine health yet easy to resolve. The best methods are a proactive approach. A combination of preventive and subsequent drills can help avoid the pain.

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World Health Day: Right Postures Set Everything Right

Do you suffer from constant neck pain? You're not alone; with somewhere between 75% and 85% of Americans complaining of back or neck pain at some point during their lives, it's clear that something needs to be done. However, as with most health issues, prevention is better than a cure, and taking care of poor posture will help you. Fixing a slouch or a hunch takes conscious effort. Think of it in terms of learning how to sit, stand, and even walk again - but your spine will thank you forever.

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5 Easy Tips to Improve Your Sitting Posture

Your posture is an important aspect that most people don’t even bother to try and maintain or fix. But, bad posture can lead to arches in the spine, loss of confidence, backaches, neck aches and more. It’s important that no matter where you are or how you are standing or sitting, that you always try to maintain your posture.

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5 Useful Tips on Dealing With First Signs of Back Pain

A number of people have experienced back pains in their life. This may be as a result of accidents, sport injuries, muscle strains or just bad habits like poor sitting and walking posture. The pain can be dealt with if the first signs are noticed.

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