Cold Laser Therapy
Cold laser therapy, commonly referred to as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), was discovered in 1967. There are over 5,500 low-level laser research studies on PubMed which includes 300 clinical trials. A new study is added every other day.
What Is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold laser devices use low levels of light to stimulate cells and initiate a healing response. It is called 'cold' or ‘low level’ because no heat is generated and therefore it is completely painless and safe.
Specific wavelengths of light gently penetrate into the cells of underlying muscles, ligaments, joints and bones. The light energy is absorbed which then stimulates these cells to increase their energy production (ATP). The increased energy is then used to restore sick, damaged or aged cells back to healthy active cells. Researchers call this effect photobiomodulation.
Benefits of Cold Laser Therapy
Low Level Laser Therapy uses specific wave lengths of light to help stimulate your body's natural healing process.
The main goals and key effects of Low Level Laser Therapy are to:
Decrease Inflammation
Healing and recovery can be improved by reducing inflammation and swelling in the target area. The optimised light frequencies of Low Level Laser Therapy reach deep into the cells and tissues, resulting in a range of positive physiological effects.
Anti-inflammatory medication is no longer recommended for the treatment of acute sprains and strains because of a range of negative side effects. The reason is that we don't want to stop the body's natural healing inflammatory response - we want to control it by dampening down swelling and pain - and increasing necessary cellular repair.
Increase the Healing Response
Cold laser stimulates circulation, aids lymphatic drainage and stimulates fibroblasts which repair damaged tissue. Quicker healing also brings relief from painful muscle guarding and hastens the recovery of damaged muscles, tendons and connective tissue.
Other Pain You Might Feel
Upper Back Pain
Do you have ongoing upper back pain? Read more about what could be the cause and how we can help you.
Decrease Pain
By reducing swelling and inflammation, the patient experiences less pain and is more inclined to put more effort into the necessary rehabilitative exercises. We aim to get you moving again as soon as possible - and controlling pain naturally is a very important part of the recovery process.
Improved Function and Mobility
Cold Laser Therapy can increase function and mobility in patients with chronic or acute conditions. Muscles weaken and lose strength quickly with injury - and always with a chronic condition like osteoarthritis.
With less pain and swelling, the patient and the therapist can use improved function to hasten progress through the recovery program which is aimed at increasing strength, flexibility, balance and aerobic fitness.
What types of conditions can be treated by Cold Laser Therapy?
A wide range of injuries, degenerative conditions or chronic pain can be helped by Cold Laser Therapy.
Some of these include:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Headaches and migraines
- Muscle strains
- Joint sprains
- Sports injuries
- Fibromyalgia Syndrome
- Osteoarthritis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Upper and lower limb pain
Chronic conditions and long standing inflammation result in muscle deconditioning and weakness. Painful trigger points almost always develop in the muscles and connective tissue which results in a chronic pain syndrome. Laser therapy can assist recovery by treating inflammation and trigger points and improving overall tissue health. Your healing time and pain relief may vary depending on the complexity of the condition being treated.
Most people experience a breakthrough in their discomfort after 6-8 treatments and on average an improvement of about 50% by 10-12 treatments.
Cold laser does not heat or burn the skin, but people often report a slight tingling sensation during the procedure.
As pain decreases, we modify your treatment program in order to increase strength and improve overall fitness.
People who really get involved in the healing process often find themselves much fitter and happier as a result of the prescribed treatment and exercise program.
Cold Laser as Part of the Treatment Process
On the first visit, our practitioners always start by assessing your situation thoroughly in order to arrive at a clear understanding and diagnosis of the cause of your pain.
Our initial assessment includes:
- Understanding your health history Evaluating how your lifestyle and work situation may be affecting your overall health
- Reviewing any previous therapy or treatment
- Discussing your overall health goals
- A thorough orthopaedic and neurological examination
On the second visit, we will present our Report of Findings and provide a clear diagnosis and discuss treatment options. We will work together to develop the most effective treatment plan for you. Our treatment plans may include various therapies such as cold laser, soft tissue therapy, manipulation, and exercise. These are always aimed at managing pain and improving your overall health. It all starts on the first visit when our friendly staff will help you each step of the way. If you are experiencing pain, call us on 08 9361 26 28. Book with our experienced practitioners to see how we can help you.