Is Cold Laser Therapy Right for You?

 

Healthcare has improved by leaps and bounds in the past few years. Cold laser therapy stands out in the realm of innovative medical treatments. This non-invasive technology promises healing for a wide range of health issues. Below, we answer questions such as what is cold laser therapy, its applications, benefits, and disadvantages.

What Is Cold Laser Therapy?

Cold or low-level laser therapy is a type of laser therapy that uses low levels of light to stimulate healing in living tissue. The low levels of light are not enough to burn or even heat body tissue, hence the name ‘cold’. The light used in this type of therapy is typically in the red to near-infrared spectrum. The level of light used is much lower than other forms of laser therapy.

How does Cold Laser Therapy Work?

During the session, low-level light at different wavelengths is applied directly to the area being targeted with a laser device. When the light is absorbed by the body tissues, the light causes a reaction. The light absorbed by the cells triggers the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP boosts energy production in the cell. The increase in energy production in the cells results in various positive effects including cell regeneration, enhanced tissue repair, reduced inflammation, and improved circulation of blood.

Cold Laser Benefits and What It Is Used For:

Cold laser treatments are being applied in various ways in the health sector. The main use of this treatment is to enhance tissue repair and provide pain relief while reducing inflammation. Below are some of the common applications of this form of therapy.

  • Minor sprains and tissue injuries

Patients suffering from minor sprains and injuries such as ligament sprains, tendonitis, muscle strains, knee pain, neck pain, tennis elbow, and even pain associated with muscle spasms can find relief using this type of treatment. The therapy will help to reduce swelling and promote healing of the soft tissue or joints.

  • Inflammation

Cold treatments are applied to treat inflamed tissues. Dentists apply the technology to encourage the healing of ulcers in the mouth. Doctors apply it to reduce inflammation resulting from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and other conditions.

  • Acute and chronic pain

Patients suffering from either acute or chronic pain caused by conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome or fibromyalgia can experience relief from pain.

  • Skin therapy

Cold treatments can be applied to encourage the healing of the skin. Dermatologists use this therapy to treat various skin conditions including burns, edema, psoriasis, and acne.

  • Acupuncture

Patients who are not comfortable with the use of needles can still benefit from acupuncture as a result of the application of low-level lasers. The laser beams can be used to stimulate various points in the body just as needles without puncturing the skin.

  • Wound Healing

Cold therapy can be used to enhance the healing of wounds that would not typically heal on their own e.g. wounds caused by diabetes.

  • Future Uses

Healthcare practitioners continue to find many other applications of cool laser therapy. Researchers are currently looking into applying the technology to treating conditions such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s.

COLD LIGHT LASER DISADVANTAGES:

  • Cold laser therapy often requires multiple sessions for optimal effect, unlike some treatments with immediate results.

  • They deliver low-level light, which limits their reach to shallower tissues and makes them less suitable for treating deep-seated conditions.

  • Research on cold laser therapy shows mixed results. While it may help with pain relief for some conditions, its effectiveness can vary depending on the individual and the specific issue.

  • Cold laser therapy may not be covered by insurance, leading to out-of-pocket costs for treatment.

  • There are some contraindications for cold laser therapy. It shouldn't be used on cancerous lesions, the thyroid gland, or the eyes due to potential risks, pregnant women should also avoid it as the effects are unknown.

Should You Use Cold Laser Therapy?

Wondering if you could benefit from this technology? The best way to find out is to consult with a healthcare practitioner experienced in its application. Contact Higher Health Spine and Sport to speak with a physical therapist. Learn more about cold laser therapy, and how it can be applied to help you achieve better health.

 
Pauline Haugen