Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), uses light to treat various conditions. Unlike other types of laser light, cold laser therapy does not produce heat or vibration in the parts of the body being treated.
Many therapists, including chiropractors and physical therapists, use cold laser therapy to treat conditions such as joint disorders, low back pain and carpal tunnel syndrome.
How Cold Laser Therapy Works
During treatment, the light source for the cold laser therapy is pressed against the skin. The light passes through the skin to reach the tissue that is being treated. Unlike surgical lasers, cold laser therapy does not cut the skin.
Doctors do not know exactly how cold laser therapy works. It is thought that as the body’s tissues absorb the light, it is converted into another type of energy. This may stimulate the natural healing process in the cells.
It also increases the flow of blood and lymph (fluid in the body outside the blood vessels) in the area being treated.
The treatments are painless, and you will be awake during the entire session. Afterwards, you will be able to return to your regular activities immediately.
You may require more than one treatment to receive the full benefits. Some people may also need two to four treatments per week. The total number of treatments depends upon the problem being addressed and how severe it is.
Conditions Treated With Cold Laser Therapy
Chiropractors use cold laser therapy to treat many different conditions, such as:
- Pain. This treatment works for pain caused by injury, aging or genetic problems.
- Wounds. Cold laser therapy may speed up the healing of wounds.
- Injuries. Certain injuries that involve the muscles and bones may benefit from this type of therapy.
- Inflammation. Cold laser therapy opens up the blood and lymph vessels. This may reduce swelling and speed up the healing process.
- Bruises. Increased flow of blood and lymph may help bruises heal faster.
- Sports injuries. Many athletes undergo cold laser therapy to help them recover from sports injuries, including muscle strains, pulled hamstring and plantar fasciitis.
To find out if cold laser therapy will work for you, contact your chiropractor today.