Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is a treatment that utilises specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue and is thought to help accelerate the healing process. It can be used on patients who suffer from a variety of acute and chronic conditions in order to help eliminate pain, swelling, reduce spasms and increase functionality.
How Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Works
The laser is a handheld device used by the clinician and is often the size of a flashlight. The laser is placed directly over the injured area for a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated and the dose provided by the laser unit.
During this time, the non-thermal photons of light that are emitted from the laser pass through the skins layers (the dermis, epidermis, and the subcutaneous tissue or tissue fat under the skin). This light has the ability to penetrate 2 to 5 cm below the skin.
Once the light energy passes through the layers of skin and reaches the target area, it is absorbed and interacts with the light sensitive elements in the cell. This process can be compared to photosynthesis in plants - sunlight is absorbed by plants, which is then converted to usable energy so that the plant can grow.
When cells absorb this light energy, it initiates a series of events in the cell that is theorised to eventually result in normalising damaged or injured tissue, a reduction in pain, inflammation, swelling and an overall reduction in healing time by increasing intracellular metabolism.(1,2)
References:
FAQ's:
What does laser therapy have over other forms of therapy?
It does not require the use of drugs or surgery, there are less side effects or risks, and it is quick and convenient.
Does it hurt? What does the treatment feel like?
There is little or no sensation during treatment. Occasionally one feels mild, soothing warmth. There is no pain associated during laser application. Laser treatment is relaxing and some people even fall asleep. On the other hand, it sometimes occurs that pain can increase or temporarily worsen 12-24 hours after a treatment session. This is because the laser light starts the healing process. This type of pain is particularly likely to arise when the health problems are chronic in their nature. It usually subsides after a few days but can, in rare cases, last longer. This is a normal reaction if it occurs, and will subside.
How long does the treatment take?
The typical course of treatment is 10-minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Acute conditions may be treated daily, particularly if they are accompanied by significant pain. More chronic problems respond better when treatments are received 2 to 3 times a week. Treatment plans are determined on an individual basis.
How many treatments does it take?
This depends on the nature of the condition being treated. For some acute conditions, 3 to 6 treatments may be sufficient. More chronic conditions may require 6-10 sessions. Conditions such as severe arthritis may require ongoing periodic care to control pain.
How long before results are felt?
You may feel improvement in your condition (usually pain reduction) after the very first treatment. Not everyone responds to laser therapy and results cannot be guaranteed. Each treatment is cumulative and results are often felt after 3 to 4 sessions. Treatments just take a few minutes, however the therapeutic effect continues to sooth and heal long after you leave our office.
Are the results long lasting?
Therapeutic Laser Therapy is about healing. It's not about masking or covering up a condition. When you feel better from this therapy... it's because you are better. Therefore, results have been found to be quite long lasting.
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 chiropractic, physio, acupuncture, massage and following surgery.
How Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) Works
The laser is a handheld device used by the clinician and is often the size of a flashlight. The laser is placed directly over the injured area for a few seconds to several minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated and the dose provided by the laser unit.
During this time, the non-thermal photons of light that are emitted from the laser pass through the skins layers (the dermis, epidermis, and the subcutaneous tissue or tissue fat under the skin). This light has the ability to penetrate 2 to 5 cm below the skin.
Once the light energy passes through the layers of skin and reaches the target area, it is absorbed and interacts with the light sensitive elements in the cell. This process can be compared to photosynthesis in plants - sunlight is absorbed by plants, which is then converted to usable energy so that the plant can grow.
When cells absorb this light energy, it initiates a series of events in the cell that is theorised to eventually result in normalising damaged or injured tissue, a reduction in pain, inflammation, swelling and an overall reduction in healing time by increasing intracellular metabolism.(1,2)
References:
- Martin R. Laser-Accelerated Inflammation/Pain Reduction and Healing. Practical Pain Management. Nov/Dec 2003 3(6):20-25.
- Marovino T. Cold Lasers in Pain Management. Practical Pain Management. Sep/Oct 2004. 4(6):37-42.
FAQ's:
What does laser therapy have over other forms of therapy?
It does not require the use of drugs or surgery, there are less side effects or risks, and it is quick and convenient.
Does it hurt? What does the treatment feel like?
There is little or no sensation during treatment. Occasionally one feels mild, soothing warmth. There is no pain associated during laser application. Laser treatment is relaxing and some people even fall asleep. On the other hand, it sometimes occurs that pain can increase or temporarily worsen 12-24 hours after a treatment session. This is because the laser light starts the healing process. This type of pain is particularly likely to arise when the health problems are chronic in their nature. It usually subsides after a few days but can, in rare cases, last longer. This is a normal reaction if it occurs, and will subside.
How long does the treatment take?
The typical course of treatment is 10-minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. Acute conditions may be treated daily, particularly if they are accompanied by significant pain. More chronic problems respond better when treatments are received 2 to 3 times a week. Treatment plans are determined on an individual basis.
How many treatments does it take?
This depends on the nature of the condition being treated. For some acute conditions, 3 to 6 treatments may be sufficient. More chronic conditions may require 6-10 sessions. Conditions such as severe arthritis may require ongoing periodic care to control pain.
How long before results are felt?
You may feel improvement in your condition (usually pain reduction) after the very first treatment. Not everyone responds to laser therapy and results cannot be guaranteed. Each treatment is cumulative and results are often felt after 3 to 4 sessions. Treatments just take a few minutes, however the therapeutic effect continues to sooth and heal long after you leave our office.
Are the results long lasting?
Therapeutic Laser Therapy is about healing. It's not about masking or covering up a condition. When you feel better from this therapy... it's because you are better. Therefore, results have been found to be quite long lasting.
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 chiropractic, physio, acupuncture, massage and following surgery.