Laser Therapy
Laser therapy is the use of monochromatic light emission from a low-intensity laser diode to treat musculoskeletal injuries, chronic and degenerative conditions. The light source is placed in contact with the skin allowing the photon energy to penetrate tissue, where it interacts with Various intracellular biomolecules resulting in the restoration of normal cell function and enhancement of the body’s healing processes.
Effects
Production and release of beta-endorphins (these are morphine-like substances produced by various cells in the body that inhibit the sensation of pain) Cortisol production is increased (cortisol is the precursor of cortisone). This enables the body to combat the stress associated with trauma or the disease process.
- Improved cellular metabolism Elevation in levels of
Serotonin Formation of new blood vessels - The immune response is stimulated
- Lymphatic drainage is improved
- Stimulation of the healing processes is accompanied
by relief of symptoms
Summary
Absorption as a result of photon bombardment of various bio-molecules in the cell results in the transformation of light into biochemical energy. This is a cumulative effect and requires sufficient stimulation in order to initiate a response. Typically 5-20 treatments varying from 15-60 minutes in duration are required. The end result of low-intensity laser irradiation is the restoration of the normal function of the cell unit. Conversely, worldwide research to date has failed to record any negative effects from this process. In contrast to other therapies, Low-Intensity Laser Therapy is curative rather than simply modulating symptomatology.
MEDICAL APPLICATION OF LOW-INTENSITY LASER THERAPY.
General
- repetitive stress injury
- fibromyalgia
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- reflex sympathetic dystrophy
- rotator cuff tear
- tempero-mandibular joint problems
Injuries
- ligament and tendon tears
- contusions
- fractures with associated soft tissue injuries
- facet joint syndrome
- subluxations / post-dislocations
Inflammatory
- tendonitis
- bursitis
- myositis
- fascitis
- synovitis
- rheumatoid arthritis
Degenerative
- osteoarthritis
- discogenic and vertebrogenic radiculopathy
- chondromalacia patella