Learn tips about Class IV laser therapy and other health related topics on the LightForce Therapy Lasers blog! Check back weekly for updated posts.
For those of us who don’t have a PhD in laser physics, the terminology and science of therapy lasers can be overwhelming. By focusing on a couple of key concepts and definitions, however, anyone can learn how to talk about laser therapy like a pro.
L-A-S-E-R
The word laser is an acronym that stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.” There are 3 properties that make laser light unique: monochromatism, coherence, and collimation. These properties are in part what makes laser light suitable for therapy purposes.
Monochromatism is an especially important feature of lasers because it has to do with the color, or in other words, the wavelength of the laser. Different wavelengths are absorbed at varying levels by different structures and fluids in the body. Certain wavelengths are optimal for minimizing absorption into superficial structures while maximizing absorption into target tissues.
Photobio-what?
One of the most important words related to laser therapy is “photobiomodulation.” The easiest way to define this term is to look at its components. “Photo” refers to light, “bio” refers to life, and “modulation” indicates a change of some sort. So, when you read that the primary mechanism of laser therapy is photobiomodulation, this means that light energy is used to produce changes in living organisms.
Joules and Watts
Joules and watts are key components for determining a therapeutic dose. Dose is calculated by establishing target joules/cm2 that you want to deliver to a designated area of the body.
Laser therapy dosing is measured in joules/cm2. One watt is equal to 1 joule/second. So, if a therapy laser has 15 W of power, and the treatment is 1 minute long, that’s a total of 900 J delivered.
To determine total dosage, you need to know the size of the area being treated. If you are treating an area 10 cm x 10 cm (or 100 cm2) for a total of 1 minute at 15 W, then your total dose is 9 J/cm2.
To become even more versed in laser therapy lingo and see photobiomodulation in action, watch this animation:
The majority of discussion around injury relates to treatment post occurrence. But what about preventing injury before it even happens? There is certainly no way to prevent all injury, but laser therapy could be one way to promote injury prevention.
Class IV therapy lasers are being widely used in professional and collegiate sports as a warm up tool. Laser therapy increases blood flow to treated areas, which athletes and trainers both appreciate during warm-up. Laser before activity can be administered either in conjunction with traditional warm-up exercises, or in place of higher impact exercise. Laser is also a good pre-event warm-up for damaged tissue.
Laser therapy reduces inflammation. Most athletes have a base level of inflammation and many also have pre-existing conditions. Using laser therapy before competition and training helps athletes perform at their peak more quickly and reduces struggles with limited range of motion and pain.
To maximize injury prevention, laser therapy can also be used with other popular techniques such as kinesiotaping. Watch this instructional video to learn how to maximize results by combining these 2 techniques:
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It’s the season for sweaters and hot chocolate – and unfortunately for some, worsening of pain associated with arthritis. Many of those who suffer from chronic arthritis pain report worsening arthritis symptoms in the colder months of the year. If you are one of the many experiencing a spike in pain without a solution, class IV laser therapy can provide answers.
Class IV laser therapy treatments are fast (typically lasting 5 – 7 minutes) and effective at relieving pain associated with many chronic conditions – including arthritis. The soothing warmth that comes with treatments offers in many cases an almost immediate relief of symptoms. Typically after 4 treatments you will notice significant improvement.
Many treat their arthritic symptoms by taking harsh prescription drugs – some of which have serious side effects. Laser therapy can be used to effectively manage your condition (without side effects) and often enables patients to reduce or eliminate their intake of drugs to manage pain.
If you are looking for a new solution to seasonal aches and pains check us out on the web to learn more about our products and/or to find a LightForce Therapy Laser provider in your area.
