Cold laser therapy utilizes low-level light energy waves to aid in pain relief and help decrease healing time. It differs from other laser treatments in the fact that the energy levels emitted during the procedure are so low that they are unable to heat the tissues in the body.
During treatment, a laser device is applied directly to the skin in the area in which pain is being felt. When the laser is emitted, the skin and underlying tissue absorb the energy from the laser, encouraging the body to begin reproducing and healing the cells in that area. Due to the low level of energy produced, the treatment is noninvasive and painless.
Cold Laser Therapy Benefits
Studies have indicated that cold laser therapy is beneficial for a wide range of ailments, including arthritis, back pain, TMJ, tendonitis, bursitis and muscle spasms. It can also be used to treat inflammation of the body and the mouth.
Dentists have found that treating patients with the cold laser technique can reduce gum swelling and speed up the healing process of mouth ulcers. Individuals with chronic inflammation related to rheumatoid arthritis have also found relief after treatment.
The use of cold lasers is not limited to aches and pains, however. Studies indicated that it can treat a wide variety of skin disorders and encourage the regeneration of skin cells in patients with acne and acne scars, vitiligo, dermatitis, psoriasis, and burns.
The regeneration effects are also beneficial in the healing of wounds which can be especially helpful for individuals suffering from ulcers and other wounds that are hard to heal.
There are many pros to using cold laser therapy in conjunction with traditional medical treatment. It is an FDA-approved treatment for many ailments and considered safe when used under the supervision of a physician. It doesn’t require additional medication (such as a sedative or pain reliever), and the procedure is generally quick (less than 10 minutes), painless, and noninvasive.
There are a few cons as well, one being that it is not an approved treatment for women who are pregnant, as there is not enough research to indicate whether the treatment is safe for the unborn. It also may take up to a month before symptoms start to decrease and in that time period, individuals may have to go into receive treatment up to four times per week. There are home devices that can be used to minimize having to go into a physician’s office, but these devices may not be covered by insurance. It doesn’t hurt to ask (it actually hurts not to); give us a call, and let’s see what your particular insurance can do for you.
Cold Laser Therapy Research
Research indicates that using cold laser energy to treat many different diseases and disorders may be effective.
Those looking for a more natural treatment may opt for such a treatment. However, anyone seeking to use this type of therapy should speak with their doctor beforehand to make sure that it is right for them.
Here’s how we can help you with your cold laser therapy journey.