New Laser Equipment at Clinic
From the beginning of time, the Egyptians, Greeks, Aztecs and Mayans worshiped the sun, believing in the curative powers of light energy. Today, we employ low-level laser therapy (LLLT) to treat a variety of ailments, from acute & chronic wounds, arthritic joints, carpal tunnel syndrome, to spinal and soft tissue pain and swelling. Laser Therapyuses specific wavelengths of light to treat painful and debilitating conditions. It has been found that wavelengths from 600nm (red) to 1000nm (infrared) are more effective.
THERMAL EFFECTS: Our “Vectra Genisys Laser System” uses a power output low enough that there is no noticeable temperature increase in the tissue. There will still be small thermal effects most noticeably resulting in small increases in local circulation.
NON-THERMAL EFFECTS: Many chemicals present in human cells, such as cytochromes, porphyrins, and flavins react to light. Generically these compounds are referred to as chromophores. Stimulation of these chromophores by light of the right range of wavelengths results in a cascade of reactions within the cells:
- Increased ATP & protein production. ATP is the fuel that powers most reactions within the cell
- Increased DNA & RNA synthesis. Resulting in increased cell Increased permeability of cell membranes (i.e. many active transport mechanisms require ATP, therefore increased ATP production will result in increased transport across cell membranes)
- Increased expression (i.e. up-regulation) of various genes, including those responsible for cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. This is directly linked to increased RNA synthesis
- Increased serotonin and endorphin synthesis
- Increased synthesis of membrane components
- Stimulation of Nitric Oxide synthesis
HOW DOES LASER THERAPY WORK? Light energy enters the damaged cells and stimulates inter-cellular activity. This reduces pain in the area and speeds recovery of the damaged cells. Once the cells recover, the healing process is completed. Laser therapy is one of the most researched and published modalities in physical rehabilitation.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING TREATMENT? Laser therapy is a safe, non-invasive, drug-free, and painless treatment for pain relief and soft tissue regeneration that usually lasts several minutes. Patients may experience a comfortable sensation at the point of application. Unlike medication, laser therapy has no side effects.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT AFTER THE TREATMENT? Most patients see positive results in about 1-3 treatments. Swelling is greatly reduced and there is a rapid relief of pain. Acute conditions usually subside quickly, typically within one set of treatments. Chronic conditions can be controlled with regular treatments.
LASER THERAPY HAS SHOWN TO BE EFFECTIVE FOR:
- Pain Management
- Spinal conditions relating to irritated & swollen discs, herniated discs, etc
- Neurological pain
- Joint and tendon conditions such as painful/swollen/stiff arthritic joints and tendonitis
- Soft tissue injuries such as strains & sprains and trigger points
- Chronic non-healing wounds
- Pre and post surgical treatment