How Does Laser Therapy Work?
Laser therapy is a treatment that uses laser light to penetrate the skin. It has been used for years for pain and inflammation, although the evidence for it is mixed. Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that does not involve any injection. This blog post will take a closer look at how laser therapy works. We will also discuss the history of light therapy and its effects on the body!
Laser therapy works by using light energy (photons) that penetrates the skin and is absorbed by cells, particularly the mitochondria (the ‘energy-producing’ parts of our cells). Laboratory studies suggest light can affect how cells produce energy (ATP), but how much this matters for patients is not well established.
The History of Light Therapy
The first form of laser therapy was used in 1967 when Endre Mester wanted to investigate if laser radiation could potentially cause cancer in mice – but to his surprise, the laser did something very different. The hair grew back in the area of the mouse that Mester had shaved and where he applied the laser. The 694 nm ruby laser demonstrated the first example of ‘biostimulation’ or biological change using lasers.
How Does Laser Therapy Work?
Laser therapy is also referred to in scientific literature as ‘photobiomodulation’ – ‘photo’ meaning light, ‘bio’ meaning natural or living, and ‘modulation’ meaning change or adaption. Therefore, laser therapy is the application of light energy to the body with the aim of causing a biological change.
Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment. Research on it is still developing, and results vary.
Laser therapy is used for a variety of conditions, including:
- Neck and Back pain.
- Arthritis.
- Chronic pain.
- Muscle spasms.
- Knee pain.
- Bursitis.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
- Sciatica
- Herniated Discs.
- Achilles Tendinopathy.
What Is Happening On A Cellular Level?
This is where it gets interesting – several different things happen as the laser or light is applied to an area. The effect of the laser or light depends on several factors, for example, the wavelength, the dose, and how it is applied.
Laboratory and small clinical studies have proposed several effects, such as changes in blood flow, in how cells produce energy (ATP, adenosine triphosphate), and in chemicals involved in pain and inflammation. How much these effects matter for patients is not well established.
Why Wavelength Matters
When it comes to laser therapy, the wavelength is critical in determining the outcome or effect. Within the spectrum of visible light, the wavelength also determines the color of the light. For example, you may have seen blue light being used on neonates in a neonatal ward in a hospital because blue light is effective for reducing excess bilirubin in the blood and, in turn, for treating jaundice. The Mayo Clinic states, “The light changes the shape and structure of bilirubin molecules so they can be excreted in urine and stool.”
Near Infra-red Light – Class 4 Laser (High Level Laser Therapy)
The kind of laser we use at Dublin Chiropractic & Physiotherapy is a class 4 laser, emitting a wavelength between 600-1100 nm, a near-infra-red (NIR) light, in the red and near-infrared range.
Does Laser Therapy Hurt?
Most people find laser therapy comfortable and feel a mild warmth. Tell us if it feels too warm and we’ll adjust.
How Many Sessions Will I Need?
The recommended dosage of laser therapy varies significantly in the literature. Your plan is set after assessment.
How Long Is Each Session Of Laser Therapy?
Session length depends on the area, or areas, being treated.
Conclusion
Laser therapy is a popular treatment for pain relief, though results vary. If you are considering laser therapy, be sure to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to ensure it is the proper treatment for you.