Laser Physiotherapy: Does It Work
What Is Laser Physiotherapy?
Laser therapy uses light energy (photons) to help reduce inflammation and pain in damaged soft tissue. The light energy travels through the skin to get absorbed by the mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell) of all cell types. The light energy is then converted into bio-chemical energy. This ensures cell regeneration and healing. It is non-invasive meaning the instrument is solely placed on the skin.At Alleviate Physiotherapy, we use low light laser therapy (LLLT) to treat a variety of conditions. Laser therapy is often used as one of the many healing modalities a physiotherapist would use.
Can Laser Physiotherapy Help with Pain?
Laser physiotherapy helps with both acute and chronic pain. It facilitates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is energy the body uses to cause muscle contraction. This triggers an immune response through an increase in macrophages (destroys harmful bacteria). Additionally, there is an increase in procollagen synthesis (protein that adds strength to tissue) and endothelial cells (regulates exchanges between the bloodstream and the surrounding tissues). Thus, healing takes place at the cellular level.
Acute Conditions?
- Treatments during the first week can be conducted on a daily basis, For Example- if patients have herniated discs and/or acute back pain
- For competitive athletes, treatment can occur 2-3 times/day with at least 2 hours between treatments.
- Once noticeable improvements occur, treatments can be administered 2-3 times/week until 75-100% of regular function is achieved.
- Treatments may span between 2-3/weeks
Chronic Conditions?
- Treatments can be administered 2-3 times/week until noticeable improvements occur
- For patients that are frail, are small children, and/or have rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia, treatment should begin with smaller doses to work up to a full dosage
- Treatments may span between 6-25 sessions
- Treatments may be necessary for 2-3 months
What Type of Pain Can Laser Physiotherapy Heal?
- Arthritis (osteo and rheumatoid)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (repetitive strain injuries)
- Postoperative neuralgia, fibromyalgia, or muscle tension/spasms
- Soft tissue injuries, strains, and sprains
- Swelling and edema
- Inflammatory conditions (such as tendonitis and bursitis)
- Bone fractures and orthopedic implants
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I expect results?
A few minutes after treatment you can expect to feel better! For acute pain you can expect to see functional improvements in about 2 weeks. For chronic pain you can expect to see functional improvements in about 6-25 sessions.
Benefits of Laser Physiotherapy for pain reliefa
- Increases circulation and angiogenesis
- Reduces or eliminates acute and chronic pain
- Reduces inflammation and swelling
- Stimulates and improves nerve function
- Strengthens and repairs bone and soft tissue
- Increases mobility and muscle function
Is it painful? Can it cause damage?
It is non-invasive and administered by a licensed healthcare professional, so it is safe to use. Research has shown miniscule side effects from treatment. Health professionals live by the principle of “do no harm”, therefore, they will only administer laser therapy if it is beneficial to the individual.
Is it helpful for soft tissue healing?
Yes! It helps to seal the blood vessels and nerve linings to promote fast healing.
Can it have long term side effects?
There are currently no known long term side effects from treatment. Physiotherapists do not treat directly into the eyes, over a pregnant uterus, over any suspicious lesion or cancer, over the thyroid gland, or over an area injected with steroids or other anti-inflammatory medication in the previous week. If it is necessary to treat these areas, protective equipment is provided.
