Low Level Laser Therapy

LASER is an acronym which stands for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Low level laser therapy (LLLT) utilizes a pencil-like beam of electromagnetic waves of a single frequency and defined wavelength to promote tissue healing and pain relief in a broad spectrum of soft tissue injuries and diseases. LLLT is a non-invasive light source treatment that emits no heat, sound, or vibration. It is also called as Cold Laser Therapy, Photobiomodulation, or Soft Laser biostimulation. LLLT is believed to affect the function of connective tissue cells (fibroblasts), accelerate connective tissue repair and act as an anti-inflammatory agent. Wavelengths between 660 nm and 905 nm have the ability to penetrate skin, and soft/hard tissues. This light has a good effect on pain, inflammation and tissue repair, so they are used in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders and many other conditions.

Mechanism Of Action

In simple words, Laser light stimulates weak/injured cells. Those cells start functioning  optimally and by doing so the affected part get repaired gradually. The molecular and cellular mechanisms of LLLT suggest that photons(light particles) are absorbed by the mitochondria(cell’s power house) of weak/injured cells. They stimulate more ATPs(energy substance) production and low levels of ROS(toxins), which then activates transcription factors(Genetic coding), such as NF-κB, to induce many gene transcript products responsible for the beneficial effects of LLLT. This results in improved circulation, reduced inflammations, reduction in pain and acceleration of healing process. The end result is restoration of normal functions of cell unit

Therapy Advantages


1. Improving the blood circulation Laser directly irradiates on blood vessels and blood flow increases. It also irradiates the sympathetic ganglion which dominates this range, resulting dilatation of local blood vessels. By these ways it supply sufficient blood and nutrition in order to improve the metabolism and relieve symptom.
2. Diminishing the inflammation quickly Laser irradiates the lesion area to enhance the activity of phagocyte (which removes dead and harmful cells) and improve the immunity and diminish the inflammation quickly.

Indication

Some common conditions treated by LLLT are
  • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Shoulder Impingement Syndrome
  • Rotator Cuff Injury or Tendonitis
  • Frozen Shoulder
  • Bursitis
  • Tennis Elbow / Golfer’s Elbow
  • Trigger Finger
  • Low Back Ache ( Facet osteoarthritis , PIVD , Muscle Spasms)
  • Patellar Tendinopathy
  • Runners knee / Jumpers knee
  • Ankle Pain ; Tibiotarsal Distortion
  • Plantar Fasciatis or Heel Spurs
  • Tendo Achilles tendinosis
  • Muscle Spasms
  • Muscle strain / Ligament sprain
  • Trigger points
  • FAQS

  • 1. Will Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) help me?
    ANS: If it is used in proper dose and duration for correct indications, then up to 80% of the patients can notice benefits by LLLT gradually in their problem

  • 2. Does the treatment hurt?
  • ANS: It does not hurt at all. It is just like a light beam on your body. There may be a slight feeling of warmth during the treatment, depending on the level of intensity of the laser. In fact, the sense of warmth gives a soothing experience in pain. Additionally, the intensity of the laser can be adjusted throughout the session.
  • 3. How many treatments will I need?
  • ANS: The number of treatments varies depending on the indication and tissue response. The effect of the treatment is cumulative, so you will typically need more than one treatment. Most indications require 10–14 treatments which are done daily or thrice or twice a week. The frequency also varies if another treatment is combined with it. Very often though, you will experience relief right after the first treatment.
  • 4. Are there any restrictions after treatment?
  • ANS: No, there are no restrictions after treatment as such, but every painful condition has some do’s and don’ts and they should be followed to get the maximum effect.