Is Low Level Laser Safe?
Using a Low Intensity Laser is both Safe and Painless.
LASER is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Low Level Laser Therapy or Cold Laser therapy is the application of specific wavelengths of coherent laser light to injuries, skin, cells and tissues to initiate a healing response. Frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz) and can be delivered in some of the better lasers in combination with the light. A lasers’ wavelength is measured in nanometers (nm) and a lasers’ power is measured in Milliwatts (mW). Select laser light wavelengths supply the tissues at a cellular level with photons and electrons. Many Low Level Lasers exist under the following names: cold laser, soft laser, stimulating laser, resonating laser, healing laser, therapeutic laser, quantum laser and so fourth. All of these Low Level Lasers are extremely safe non-cutting, non-heat producing, gentle, therapeutic lasers.
LLLT is non-invasive and does not hurt. As the name implies Low Level Laser Therapy involves the use of low strength lasers and LEDs (that is, low compared to surgical lasers etc). As such, the light being emitted produces no heat and most patients report little to no sensation during treatment.
In over 30 years of evidence-based research there have been not reported lasting side-effects from LLLT.
Are Low Level Lasers Medically Approved?
Yes, all Low Level Lasers in Canada are CSA approved and FDA cleared.
The laser head contains both 660 nm visible laser diodes and 905 nm invisible (Near Infrared) diodes for light saturation of up to 4″ into the body.From a patient’s point of view, CSA approved laser equipment provides maximum healing benefits with minimum treatment times and advanced safety features.
Types of Low Level Laser Treatments Available?
The Low Level Laser works for smoking cessation, weight loss, pain management, stress and anxiety, alcohol addiction, drug addiction, methadone addiction, insomnia, injury therapy, post-traumatic stress, and depression.
Laser is a specialized form of light. Your entire body is made of cells which respond to the energy of light. This light energy is converted within the cells into chemical energy, called ATP, and the cells use this energy to heal.Incredibly, only damaged cells respond to laser, healthy cells are not affected. The specific wavelengths of LLLT have been found to be the most accepted by the body. Low Level Laser light stimulates cell growth and repair. It improves cell communication to speed healing. It stimulates formation of new blood vessels, improves nerve function, plus reduces swelling and inhibits scar formation.
How Long is a Low Level Laser Session?
Sessions typically last between 20-30 minutes.
Depending on what area of the body is being treated length of sessions can vary. Studies suggest a treatment period longer than 20-30 minutes provides no additional benefit to the affected area. Of course the treatment duration depends upon the size of the area to be treated eg. a lower back will take longer to treat than a wrist.
What is the Success Rate for Stop Smoking?
The success rate of the Low Level Laser Stop Smoking program is 95%. The unlimited treatments for one year, along the counseling and support provided after the original treatment ensures the client’s success.
How Many Treatments to Quit Smoking?
For 80% of clients it only takes one treatment. 15% will require 1-2 extra treatments and 5% will require ongoing support. But for clients who feel they require additional treatments, they are free for a year after your initial treatment as long as the client hasn’t smoked.
Pain Treatments
An average course of treatment is between 6 to 8 treatments. Some patients will have fewer treatments and others more depending on the severity of the condition or how wide spread the pain is. Avoiding known factors that can make the pain worse and resting the area will help speed up the treatment.
The more quickly your pain improves the fewer the treatments needed and the greater the time between treatments.
Do I have to Quit Smoking before Treatment?
While the client can smoke up until right before for the treatment and the physical cravings will be gone after the treatment, it is recommended that EVERY smoking cessation client stop smoking at least 3 hours before their treatment so they can feel the full effect of the laser.
Our counselling and lifestyle recommends will also assist you in being successful in your battle against nicotine.
What Parts of my Body are Treated?
The laser is applied to acupuncture pressure points on the hands, face, ears and wrists.
With LLLT, the wavelength penetrates to the problem, and the photo density level causes the bioactivation. Biologically, the following changes have been shown to occur:
- ATP production increased
- DNA production increased
- Elevated levels of serotonin and acetylcholine
- Mitochondrial activity stimulated
- Modulation of macrophages, fibroblasts and other cells that assist in various aspects of the healing process
- Formation of new blood vessels
- Regulation of electrolyte balance
- Cellular communications are enhanced
- Enhanced anti-aging process
- Stimulated immune system
Laser is different from a bright light source in that the effects of each type of laser are very exact. A particular colour or wavelength has a very specific effect on the body. These specific effects have been measured and analyzed. Laser units are manufactured to produce the desired results in the body in a very controlled manner.
Can anyone have Low Level Laser treatment?
While a vast majority of people can, women who are pregnant cannot have a laser treatment.
There are no known side effects of LLLT when used properly. User guidelines include:
- Never receive LLLT over your thyroid—LLLT can compromise thyroid function.
- Wear protective eyeglasses during LLLT—looking directly at the light can damage your retinas.
- Do not receive LLLT if you are pregnant—the laser’s effects on a fetus are unknown.
- Do not laser potentially cancerous lesions—LLLT can stimulate proliferation of existing cancer cells.
How Will I Feel after my Treatment?
The client is left in a calm and uplifted mood.
There is mild or no sensation during treatment. During the treatment some clients may feel a mild, soothing warmth or tingling feeling.