top of page

Cold Laser Therapy

 

 

 

What is Cold Laser Therapy?

 

 

Low-Level Laser therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation has been used for medical purposes since 1960s. It uses low-powered laser light in the range of 1-1000 mW, at wavelengths from 632-1064 nm, to stimulate a response in the power houses of our cells (mitochondria).

 

These lasers do not emit heat, sound, or vibration. It works by stimulation of the mitochondria to produce more energy as well as production of growth factors and cytokines that promote healing. It also supports the production of nitric oxide (NO) which dilates blood vessels and improves blood supply.

 

 

Benefits of this therapy observed in clinical research include

 

  • Decreased Inflammation

  • Decreased Pain

  • Faster Healing

 

 

What are the conditions that can benefit from Cold Laser Therapy?

 

 

  • Stroke

  • Traumatic Brain Injury

  • Neurodegenerative Diseases like Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s Disease

  • Spinal Cord and Peripheral Nerve Injury

  • Wound Healing

  • Muscle and joint pains such as neck and shoulder pain of musculoskeletal origin, wrist and hand pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, and iliotibial band syndrome.

  • Fibromyalgia trigger points

 

 

What is the duration and frequency of Cold Laser Therapy?

 

 

The duration of treatment is dependent on the area needed to cover as well as the type of device used. Some patients notice immediate relief. Other need 6-8 sessions to achieve the desired effect. It is recommended that the treatment sessions are more frequent in the beginning phase (2-3 times a week for first 4 weeks) and then tapered to once a week for 4-6 weeks for maintenance purposes.

Treatment for each person needs to be individualized on the basis of the severity of their injury and their healing capacity.

 

 

Are there any side effects of the Cold Laser Therapy?

 

It is a very safe therapy with no known side effects.

 

 

References

 

 

bottom of page