Clinicians are using laser therapy more often than ever before to help reduce pain and inflammation related to many common conditions.
Thousands of doctors and patients have experienced the power of laser therapy and are familiar with its therapeutic effects, but for those who aren’t, here are 5 things everyone should know about it:
1. It reduces pain and inflammation without side effects
Laser therapy uses a process called photobiomodulation. Photons enter the tissue and interact with the cytochrome c complex within mitochondria. This interaction triggers a biological cascade of events that leads to an increase in cellular metabolism and a decrease in both pain and inflammation. Unlike medications, laser therapy reduces pain without undesirable side effects.
It is also important to point out that patients report long-lasting pain relief. While the number of treatments required may vary depending on the acuity of the condition, many patients experience lasting relief after only a couple treatments.
2. Can be used for acute and chronic conditions
When treating acute conditions with laser therapy, it is particularly effective when it is administered as soon as possible following injury (assuming there is no active hemorrhaging). The faster the inflammation is reduced and the healing process can begin, the better. In the case of acute injury, laser therapy helps restore the body to normal function quicker.
With chronic conditions, laser therapy is used most often to help combat persistent pain and inflammation. The new LightForce EXP 25-watt laser is being used by clinicians to quickly reduce inflammation in patients suffering from chronic pain. This therapy laser is especially well-suited for treating chronic conditions because it enables clinicians to treat a wider area of interest while still delivering therapeutically relevant dosages.
3. Treatments can be customized for each situation
Lasers that have larger power ranges offer versatile treatment options. A laser that can be set to operate from 0.5 W all the way up to 25 W, allows the clinician flexibility to treat low and slow or at maximum output.
The availability of multiple treatment heads offers additional flexibility for the clinician. The LightForce Empower™ Delivery System, for example, features 5 different treatment heads, each designed to facilitate optimal delivery in different scenarios. It is important to have several delivery options to ensure the delivery method is appropriately matched to the situation. For instance, when treating over bony prominences, an off-contact treatment method is advisable. However, when treating deep-tissue structures, such as a hamstring, an on-contact massage ball attachment is best to reduce reflection and scattering, and also encourage deeper penetration by displacing excess fluids. Different sized treatment heads can also be advantageous for administering treatments that require varying levels of precision.
Advanced software is another tool that helps with treatment customization. Influence Technology™ allows clinicians to build custom treatments by selecting body region, condition, and specific patient characteristics. Touchscreens and intuitive selection processes make delivering the right dose easy. For even more customization, clinicians can also formulate their own protocols by entering a couple key components with LightForce’s newest software feature, Perfect Protocol™.
4. Treatments Feel Good
One common question related to laser therapy is, “What does it feel like?” Depending on the laser, it can create little to no sensation or it can create a gentle, soothing warmth. Many patients receiving LightForce Laser Therapy treatments report enjoying the experience, especially when a massage-ball treatment head is used to deliver what is often referred to as a “laser massage.”
Patients receiving treatments with higher-power lasers also frequently report a rapid decrease in pain. For someone suffering from chronic pain, this effect can be particularly pronounced.
5. Treatments Are Fast
With LightForce lasers, treatments are quick, usually 5-10 minutes depending on the size, depth, and acuteness of the condition being treated. High-power lasers are able to deliver a lot of energy in a small amount of time, so therapeutic dosages are achieved quickly. For people with packed schedules, patients and clinicians alike, fast and effective treatments are a must.
References
Hamblin MR, Demidova TN. “Mechanisms of low level light therapy.” Proc. of SPIE Photonics. 2006; 6140: 614001-01-12. doi: 10.1117/12.646294
Kingsley JD, Demchak T, Mathis R. “Low-level laser therapy as a treatment for chronic pain.” Frontiers in Physiology. 2014; 5(306): 1-3. doi: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00306
Beverly
I think most insurance does not cover laser therapy. Am I right?
admin
Hi Beverly. Please refer to the reply below on the question asked by Karen.
Karen Videgar
I see where my Chiropractor has this therapy. Can it help people with fibromyalgia? Also, she told me that insurance companies do not pay for this treatment. Do you know why they don’t?
admin
Hello Karen and thank you for your questions! To answer your question about whether laser therapy has been shown to be effective for fibromyalgia, yes it has. You can read the results of a related study looking at pain reduction and flexibility improvement here:
https://www.litecure.com/blog/studies/effects-of-class-iv-laser-therapy-on-fibromyalgia-impact-and-function-in-women-with-fibromyalgia/
In response to your question about insurance coverage, reimbursement for laser therapy differs among insurance providers so we recommend you contact your insurance provider directly for more information about your coverage.
sonali
Is laser therapy is effective for annular tear of l5si disc & please say laser therapy has any side effect like infertility/sterility etc?
Perry Nickelston, DC
Laser can be helpful for the pain and inflammation related to the injury. There are no known side effects from laser therapy.
Elizabeth Kelly
Would this treatment help with restless leg syndrome
Perry Nickelston, DC
There have benn no studies on its use for restlessness leg syndrome, however it has shown positive effects on nerves and soft tissue regeneration. Have a few sessions and you will know quickly if it will help.
Dianne Leavitt
Can this treatment help regenerate disc pulp? I have zero disc between s1 and l5 and the two vertebrae rub each other with every move I make. My scans show a tiny sliver between the two. Can the laser build more disc material?
admin
LightForce therapeutic lasers are indicated for emitting energy in the near infrared spectrum to provide topical heating for the purpose of elevating tissue temperature for temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, muscle spasm, pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and promoting relaxation of the muscle tissue and to temporarily increase local blood circulation.
Laser therapy has not been shown to regenerate disc pulp. However, therapeutic laser has been found effective in managing low back pain. Below is a link to studies that may be of interest.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4451852/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25141218
Steve
Has this been treatment been used for Trigeminal neuralgia
admin
LightForce lasers are indicated for the temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain, muscle spasm, pain and stiffness associated with arthritis and promoting relaxation of the muscle tissue and to temporarily increase local blood circulation.
There have been studies conducted and papers published on the effects of photobiomodulation therapy for the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia. Here is a link to a literature review:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4091693/pdf/joddd-8-1.pdf
Also Dr. Paul Bradley at Nova Southeastern University College of Dental Medicine did present data at the 2015 ASLMS meeting “A Comparison of the Immediate Pain Reduction after Class 4 Laser in a Neuropathic Pain Group Versus a Myogenous Pain Group in a Head and Neck Pain Clinic.” He used a LightForce laser to treat patients with burning mouth syndrome (neuropathic pain) or temporomandibular dysfunction (myogenous pain) and reported pain relief from both groups.
Bruce Biles
I have OA in both knees and I understand this therapy can help. Are there any objective scientific findings to back this claim up? Thank you.
admin
Bruce – here are some studies that you might find useful:
Bjordal JM, Johnson MI,Lopes-Martins RAB, Bogen B, Chow R, Ljunggren AE. Short-term efficacy of physical interventions in osteoarthritic knee pain. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled trials. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2007; 8:51. doi:10.1186/1471-2474-8-51 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17587446
Hegedűs B, Viharos L, Gervain M, Gálfi M. The effect of low-level laser in knee osteoarthritis: a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2009; 27(4): 577-584. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19530911
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2957068/
Ip D. Does addition of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in conservative care of knee arthritis successfully postpone the need for joint replacement? Lasers Med Sci. 2015; 30: 2335-2339. doi: 10.1007/s10103-015-1814-6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26420240
http://www.russochiropractic.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/05/laser-therapy-knee-joint-replacement.pdf
Jang H, Lee H. Meta-analysis of pain relief effects by laser irradiation on joint areas. Photomedicine and Laser Surgery. 2012; 30(8): 405-417. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22747309 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3412059/
Cyndy
I had deep tissue laser therapy for torn meniscus in January. 2 Drs told me I had to have surgery asap. I could not walk with out crutches non weight bearing knee. I opted out of surgery and did the deep tissue instead. I could not be more pleased. It took some time, but it was a remarkable process and I would not hesitate to recommend. Told chiropractor that if they got broken into and this machine came up missing, just come on to my house. That’s where it will be. No apologies. Is this treatment used on animals? Friend has dog with ACL. We are looking for surgical alternatives.
admin
Cyndy – what a great story! Yes this therapy is available for animals, https://www.litecure.com/companion/ Companion Therapy Laser is the name of our Veterinary counterpart. Here is a link to the practice finder where you can locate a clinic near you that offers this therapy: https://www.litecure.com/companion/for-pet-owners/find-a-practice-with-litecure/ good luck with the ACL injury!
Tom Z
Can this laser device be used for diabetic neuropathy nerve foot pain? My wife suffers from this on the bottom of her feet and toes. She has tried every drug out there with no effects, or she had bad side effects from the drugs. She tried many topical cremes too, again with no relief. Thanks.
admin
Tom thanks for the question! The LightForce Therapy Laser is indicated for the treatment of pain and inflammation. You should consult a local physician, you can find a clinician who utilizes a LightForce Therapy Laser by visiting our practice finder: https://www.litecure.com/de-medical/for-patients/find-a-practice-with-litecure/
Tucker Bilal
I pulled my hamstring in practice about a week ago, with the laser treatments about how soon do you estimate I can be up and running again?
Perry Nickelston
Hi Tucker. It depends on a few factors such as how significant the injury was, if it was the first one, how long after the injury before you got treatment, if you are doing other treatments such as exercise, etc. so many variables. Laser can help speed the process, but each person heals at their own pace. Follow your doctor recommended care plan and you will be on the field again sooner.
Michele
My therapist is applying laser therapy on my arm folded over my chest. The red light is going also over the chest, not only over the arm. Is this dangerous for my heart or liver or spleen?
admin
As a manufacturer, we suggest that you talk to the therapist who is delivering the treatment about your concerns. The amount of light that reaches your skin will depend on a number of treatment parameters, such as the treatment power, the treatment head used, and whether the treatment is on or off contact. Treatments should not be delivered through clothing, as this will decrease the amount of light that reaches the skin. You may watch this video for additional information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQyTz5_0olA
TG
Would Deep Tissue Laser help with knee arthritis pain?
Perry Nickelston
Yes laser therapy has proven to be very helpful in alleviating the pain assciated with arthritis. Results are often felt after 1-3 sessions.
Joyce Cochrane
does this procedure have any affect on my pacemaker ???
admin
As a manufacturer, we are not able to give treatment advice. The laser should not be applied over the thorax or a pacemaker in patients with a pacemaker. We recommend contacting your physician with any questions regarding your specific condition and treatment.
Joni Mansfield
I had my first therapy yesterday and I’ve already noticed a decrease in pain, but a little nausea. Is that normal or maybe not related to the therapy?
admin
Hello Joni and thank you for your question! As a manufacturer, we are not able to give treatment advice. We recommend contacting your physician with any questions regarding your specific treatment situation.
Loretta Rigg
I’ve had 2 laser treatments for chronic plantar fascititis. should my feet feel kind of sore after treatment?
admin
Thank you for your question. As a manufacturer, we are not able to give treatment advice. We recommend contacting your physician with any questions regarding your specific condition and treatment.
pat c
I have had stenosis for 3 years and have had injections, massage, PT, yoga, etc. with little to now relief. I was told laser therapy would help. How many visits and what is the cost?
admin
Hello Pat! We recommend you locate a physician near you who offers laser therapy to inquire about the number of visits required and pricing. To do so, please visit our practice finder and type in your zip code: https://www.litecure.com/de-medical/for-patients/find-a-practice-with-litecure/
steve
I have multiple Myeloma. One of the issues I have is paint in me feumer left leg bone between the greater and lesser Tricantors. Will this laser work on the bone, the orthopedic, said because of the multiple myeloma is causing that area to be weak and that is what caused the lesser tricantor to partly separate from the bone
Perry Nickelston, DC, SFMA
No, you cannot use laser therapy for that condition as a result of MM.
Lee
can having back laser treatments result in having some hair to start falling out??
Perry Nickelston, DC, SFMA
No, therapeutic laser treatment will not cause hair to fall out.
Ann Allen
Will deep tissue laser therapy help spinal stenosis leg pain?
Perry Nickelston
Hi Ann. Yes it can be helpful for that condition. Will take a few sessions to see just how much.
James Bay
My friend told me about laser treatment. I had no idea that it can reduce pain without side effects. I will need to try this out. Thank you for the post.
Salvador Salgado
I have received surgery, last month, for a pinched nerve and disk degeneration, I have some numbness in my thumb, index and middle finger of my left arm, which I was told by my surgeon that it’s not permanent but, will take some time to return to normalcy. Over the past two weeks I’ve been getting a series of aching pains in my left shoulder and forearm. Should I consider deep tiissue laser therapy ? I am on medicare / medicaid. Could this therapy be affordablee to a 66 year old semi- retired individual ?
Skylar Mitchell
I never really knew much about laser therapy and how it could help with pain. It sounds like it is really great for those that have chronic pain, because it can get rid of the pain without damaging the body or having other side effects. My good friend has been having some really bad pain in her shoulder, so it might be interesting for her to look into some laser therapy as an option. Do you have any suggestions on how she can find a good place to get this done at? http://drlionelchang.com
admin
Skylar, she can find practices that offer this therapy by visiting our practice finder: https://www.litecure.com/de-medical/for-patients/find-a-practice-with-litecure/
Debby
I have been to numerous specialists for over 30 years for chronic intractable migraine disease. The quality of my life has seriously declined due to the impact of this long term incredible pain. I’ve been taking my boxer for laser treatment and she has greatly benefited. I am seriously interested in acquiring a machine for in home use for myself.