Here you will find the questions I find most common about Laser Therapy. (aka Low Level Laser Therapy / Cool Laser Therapy / Photobiomodulation Therapy). Keep reading to learn more about one of my favourite modalities…
- What is Laser Therapy?
Laser Therapy devices are use light waves to eliminate pain, reduce inflammation and accelerate tissue healing to treat a broad range of nerve, muscle and joint conditions.
When laser light interacts with tissue it causes certain photochemical reactions to occur and stimulates natural biological healing processes, thus transforming light energy into chemical energy
- Will it be painful?
Laser Therapy is a painless procedure. You may feel a warm sensation or slight tingling because nerves are being stimulated, but this will subside shortly after your treatment is finished.
Unlike Class 4 laser systems, which the mode of action is to heat tissues, Class 3b Therapeutic Laser technology does not generate any appreciable heat; therefore, poses very little thermal risk to tissue. Therapeutic Laser systems are non-invasive and pain-free, with no known side effects or discomfort to patients.
- What are some conditions that can be treated?
Although this list is not complete, some conditions successfully treated with laser therapy are:
♦ neck, shoulder, back, knee, hip pain
♦ arthritis
♦ tendonitis, bursitis, synovitis and capsulitis
♦ strains, sprains
♦ carpal tunnel and sciatica
♦ wounds and post-surgical incisions
♦ migraines and headaches
- How long does the treatment take?
Treatment time will vary depending on the condition treated and its severity. I always advise to book extra time, just to be safe. I personally tend to treat other compensating structures as well to increase the body’s ability to heal overall.
- How many treatments will I need? And how often?
This will vary depending on the condition and severity as well. Some complaints will only take 1 treatment weekly, others can take 2-3 treatments each week. Some conditions also may take a longer period of time to treat — you can be looking at 2-3 weeks or maybe even a couple of months.
- Can it be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment?
Yes, laser therapy is even more effective when combined with other forms of therapy, including physical therapy, chiropractic, massage, soft tissue mobilization, electrotherapy, and following surgery.
- Can laser therapy be used over medical implants or over metal?
Yes, laser therapy is a light treatment. No heating is involved with the surgical or metal implants. It can be used safely with no side effects. It is extremely effective for post-operative wound healing.
I hope this post helps! If you have any other questions, feel free to post below or contact me directly.
Take care,
xoxo, Amy