What’s Low Level Laser Therapy?
Low level laser therapy, commonly know as LLLT, is a form of phototherapy which involves the application of low power coherent light to injuries and lesions to stimulate healing. LLLT is used to increase the speed, quality and tensile strength of tissue repair, resolve inflammation, increase range of motion and give pain relief.
How Does LLLT work?
The effects of LLLT are photochemical(cold), not thermal. During treatment of the tissue with the 635nm laser, an interaction between cells and photons takes place: a photochemical reaction. Photons from the laser affect the tissue at the cellular level. The cold laser enters the tissue, alters cell membrane permeability, and at the cellular level is absorbed in the mitochondria. The mitochondria are the “powerhouse” of cells and make ATP which is needed for the life enhancement process of every cell which facilitates:
– rapid cell growth. The laser accelerates cellular reproduction and growth.
– faster wound healing. The laser stimulates fibroblast development in the damaged tissue. The reduction in recovery time is an important consideration
– increased metabolic activity. Helps the body increase output of specific enzymes, greater oxygen to blood cells and more effective immune reponse are induced by laser
– reduced fibrous tissue formation. The laser reduces formation of scar tissue following tissue damage from cuts, scratches, burns, or following surgery
– anti-inflammatory action. The laser reduces swelling caused by bruising or inflammtion of joints to give improved joint mobility.
– increased vascular activity. The laser stimulates lymph and blood circulation, to allow the affected tissue to have the best possible circulation
– stimulate nerve function. Slow recovery of nerve function in damaged tissue can result in “dead” limb or numb areas. Laser will speed the process of nerve cell reconnection to bring the numb area back to life. Laser also increases the amplitude of action potentials to optimize muscle action.
What are the advantages of LLLT?
The Erchonia laser has been found to offer superior healing and pain relieving effects. The results seem equally untouchable for early stages of acute injuries, and for chronic problems. LLLT is a universal method of treating mucles, ligament, tendon, connective tissue, bone, neurological dysfunction or damage and skin tissue. When the laser is applied with chiropractic care the best results are achieved to organize the nervous system and promote healing. Erchonia laser therapy is a major advantage for athletes due to the neurological applications and extremely fast results that can be achieved.