LASER Therapy
LASER stands for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Laser Therapy involves applying low-intensity laser light to relieve pain due to soft tissue damage. It facilitates tissue repair and restores normal cell function making it an effective method for wound healing and pain management.
What Is LASER Therapy?
Laser therapy uses low-intensity light to aid in tissue repair and reduce pain. This light is much less powerful than that used in lasers for tumor destruction or coagulation. The process stimulates the body’s healing mechanism promoting cellular regeneration and pain relief.
Types of LASERS
High Lasers
These include surgical hard and thermal lasers with power levels between 3000-10000 mW used for surgical cutting coagulation and tumor destruction.
Low Lasers
Low-power lasers or cold lasers operate within the range of 1-500 mW and are mainly used for therapeutic purposes like pain relief and wound healing.
Effects of LASER Therapy
Laser therapy is safe effective and non-invasive. The low-intensity light stimulates healing by passing through the skin layers promoting cellular repair reducing pain and speeding up the recovery process.
Advantages of LASER Therapy
- Reduces pain
- Increases ATP production accelerating cell repair
- Faster wound healing
- Recovery from nerve injuries
- Reduces formation of fibrous scar tissue
- Promotes bone and cartilage formation
- Helium-neon (He-Ne) Laser: Red light 632.8 nm wavelength.
- Gallium Arsenide (Ga-As) Laser: Infrared light 904 nm wavelength.
Conditions Treated by LASER Therapy
- General Chronic Pain
- Tennis Elbow
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Shoulder Impingement
- Frozen Shoulder
- Disc Herniation
- Sciatica
- Osteoarthritis
- Redness similar to mild sunburn typically disappearing within hours
- Occasional tingling or warmth during or after treatment
- Rare skin irritation or rash
How Does LASER Therapy Feel?
Laser therapy is generally painless with some patients experiencing a mild warm sensation during treatment. It’s a soothing experience with no vibration or discomfort.
Potential Side Effects
- Redness similar to mild sunburn typically disappearing within hours
- Occasional tingling or warmth during or after treatment
- Rare skin irritation or rash
How Many Sessions Are Needed?
The number of sessions varies based on the condition. Typically 3-4 sessions per week for 20-25 minutes are recommended for optimum results.
Precautions for LASER Therapy
- Always use protective eyewear during treatment.
- Be cautious with individuals having hypersensitivity to light.
- Ensure clear communication during treatment to prevent discomfort.
- Avoid use near the eyes or over cancerous tissues.
- Not recommended for individuals with epilepsy or during pregnancy.