What Is Cold Laser Therapy?

April 7, 2022

We are extremely excited to announce the addition of Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to our practice in all location!  LLLT is also known as Cold Laser Therapy.  I’m often asked the question of “What is Cold Laser Therapy?”  So lets dive in deeper to talk about what LLLT / Cold Laser therapy is, and more importantly, is it right for you.

Chattanooga LLLT Class 3B Laser

What is Low Level Laser Therapy?

Therapeutic laser utilizes light to transmit energy into damaged and inflamed tissue and cells

What is LLLT used for?

To increase the speed and quality of healing, tensile strength of tissue repair, & resolve inflammation and pain.

What are the effects of LLLT?

The goal in this transmission of laser light is to enhance the energy of the cells in that particular tissue/area of the body. If we can get damaged or degenerated cells to absorb as much of this light energy as possible, we will see decreased inflammation, increased blood and lymphatic circulation, relaxation of muscles, and relief of pain and stiffness.

Is LLLT used for certain types of injuries?

Yes, it is popularly used for soft tissue injuries, joint conditions, & nerve pain.  The conditions research has proven it to be effective for include, but are not limited to:

  • Osteoarthritis of knees, hips, ankles, shoulder, and hands
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis
  • Shoulder Impingement
  • Acute and Chronic Tendinitis
  • Bursitis
  • Plantar Fascitis
  • Neck and Back Strains & Sprains
  • Sciatica
  • Disc Herniation of the Cervical, Thoracic, and Lumbar spine
  • Neuropathic pain
  • Tennis and Golfers Elbow
  • Reduction in the volume and pain resulting from Lymphedema
  • Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction (TMD / TMJ)
  • Rotator cuff tears
  • Wound healing
  • Post-Operative Pain

Low-level Laser Therapy - Coastal Sports and Wellness

What can I expect for results from this type of treatment?

Research shows a significant reduction of inflammation and pain, equal to or better than NSAIDs within 2 hours while typically having longer lasting effects.  The healing time of chronic tendon injuries was reduced by 70%.

How does LLLT compare to other options?

LLLT is proven more effective and safer than pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories across a range of musculoskeletal conditions including over 200 LLLT clinical trials and over 1,000 laboratory studies. LLLT also improves healing and reduces muscle fatigue, muscle damage, and delayed onset muscle soreness. LLLT can improve sleep and is used to treat shingles and fibromyalgia. Check with your physical therapist about other conditions not listed.

MLS laser therapy, cold laser therapy

What is the science of LLLT?

The effects of LLLT are photochemical (like photosynthesis in plants). When the correct intensity and treatment times are used, red and near infrared light reduces oxidative stress and increases ATP (an essential intracellular cellular energy and extracellular signaling molecule). This improves cell metabolism and reduces inflammation.

How does LLLT lead to tissue repair and anti-inflammatory effects?

The primary effect occurs when the energy producing structure in cells, the mitochondria, is stimulated. When cells get stressed (perhaps due to disease, injury or ageing) the mitochondria produces nitric oxide (NO). This displaces oxygen consequently reducing ATP and causes an over production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and leads to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is well known to lead to inflammation and cell death. Low Level Laser Therapy of the correct wavelength and density, dissociates NO allowing oxygen back in, so ATP is restored and oxidative stress reduced. Once normal mitochondrial function is restored by LLLT then cell metabolism is improved, the patient gets better and heals more quickly.

 

The best part of all…Laser offers a PAIN FREE option to treat your orthopedic and neurological conditions.  Just like your standard PT appointments, no doctor referral is necessary!  Want to know more about is laser therapy is right for you?  Call our team of specialists today at (203) 389-4593 or visit www.amitypt.com/request-an-appointment

 

Kyle Branday, MSPT

Kyle Branday, MSPT, C-PSChampion Performance Specialist (C-PS)

Kyle is a licensed Physical Therapist and is the supervisor of the Woodbridge office. He is a graduate of Quinnipiac University where he earned his Master’s degree in Physical Therapy. In addition, Kyle is Level 2 Certified by the Institute of Advanced Musculoskeletal Treatment for Dry Needling. Kyle enjoys treating patients with a wide range of orthopedic and neurological conditions.

Kyle has extensive training in the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic orthopedic and sports injuries, neurological rehabilitation, manual therapy, sports specific training, Selective Functional Movement Assessment (SFMA) and works with patients ranging from pediatrics to geriatrics.

Recently, he has completed course work to earn designation as a Champion Performance Specialist (C-PS) to enhance his work with elite athletes and weekend warriors alike. Kyle is an avid sports fan and works with our patients in our Sports Performance Programs.

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