People often think laser therapy is something that can only be used for surgery and other medical procedures. However, Low-level Laser Therapy (LLLT)can be effective for Pain Management, and it is an entirely safe and well-accepted method of usage. Many physiotherapists use laser therapy in conjunction with other treatments such as exercises, manual therapy, heat, ultrasound, TENS units to stimulate muscles and more as part of their treatment procedure.
Physical therapists, chiropractors, and other pain specialists know the importance of laser therapy in reducing pain and inflammation. Other conditions that also benefit from the treatment of Laser Therapy for pain are patients who are suffering from:
Tennis elbow
Pain in the neck and back
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Sprains and strains of muscles and ligaments
Rotator cuff injury pain
frozen shoulder pain
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How does laser therapy work?
The laser delivers energy directly to the tissue, increasing circulation in the inflamed or injured area. LLLT does not produce any heat, and so it is also called Cold Laser therapy. Although, some patients may feel mild warmth in the treated area.
Laser therapy aids in the drainage of the lymphatic system, which reduces inflammation. It also speeds up wound healing, which is beneficial for patients with burns, open wounds.
Laser therapy can also be used to treat:
- Fibromyalgia Pain
- People with diabetic Neuropathies
- Gout
- Joint pain and swelling
- And much more…
Is there any external sensation felt when applying laser therapy?
Patients usually feel nothing, but some may feel warmth or tingling; this is entirely normal and does not cause any discomfort.
LLLT is a better alternative for pain relief and reduces pain medications use. Let’s face it; prescription drugs have side effects. Locate the best pain clinic or physiotherapy center that offers laser therapy as a treatment option to help manage your pain symptoms. Though home-based units are available, it is better to do them under professional guidance for safety and complete recovery. As a general rule, these are adjuncts to treatment only.
Research has shown that laser therapy is used to treat other skin conditions, but it’s primarily used for treating acute and chronic pain conditions with inflammation.
The general theory behind how laser therapy works is that the photochemical reactions caused by the lasers during light treatment to the targeted cells can help reduce and control pain by increasing blood flow and decreasing the levels of prostaglandins that cause pain and stress in the cells. In addition, it increases the production of oxygen by increasing adenosine triphosphate, which also helps relieve pain and improve energy to the cells.
How safe is laser therapy?
Laser Therapy Pain Units are FDA-approved and safe.
Protective goggles are a must to help protect your eyes, regardless of whether you’re the patient or the therapist applying the laser, as the light should not come in direct contact with the eyes.
Low-level laser therapy is painless. It can be used anytime under guided supervision. As the laser’s intensity is low, it cannot damage any cells being treated; this makes it 100% safe. It is non-toxic, non-invasive, and causes no long-term side effects to the patient. In addition, it is easy to apply and does not much time.
