What is Photobiomodulation Therapy?
Laser therapy is a medical treatment that employs focused light to stimulate a biological process known as photobiomodulation (PBM). Photons, during PBM, penetrate tissue and interact with the cytochrome c complex within mitochondria. This interaction triggers a series of biological events, resulting in heightened cellular metabolism, which can alleviate pain and accelerate the healing process.
How does Photobiomodulation Therapy work?
Photobiomodulation therapy is a light therapy form that utilizes non-ionizing light sources such as lasers, light-emitting diodes, and broadband light in the visible (400 – 700 nm) and near-infrared (700 – 1100 nm) electromagnetic spectrum. It is a nonthermal process that involves endogenous chromophores that elicit photophysical (i.e., linear and nonlinear) and photochemical events at various biological scales. This process has been shown to produce beneficial therapeutic outcomes, such as alleviating pain, immunomodulating, and promoting wound healing and tissue regeneration. Researchers and practitioners now prefer to use the term photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy instead of terms such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), cold laser, or laser therapy.
The fundamental principles of photobiomodulation (PBM) therapy, as currently understood in the scientific literature, are straightforward. There is a consensus that the application of a therapeutic dose of light to damaged or dysfunctional tissue leads to a cellular response mediated by mitochondrial mechanisms. Studies have demonstrated that these changes can have an impact on pain and inflammation, as well as tissue repair.
Several studies have shown that PBM is neurprotective. Photobiomodulation has been shown, not only to influence the functional activity of neurons across the brain, but also to improve their survival against damage or disease. PBM is a promising treatment for neurodegenerative disorders associated with memory loss and brain fog as well as pyschiatric illness and traumatic brain injury.
Treatments
Experience Pain Relief and Reduced Inflammation associated with:
Neck Pain
Back Pain
Sciatica
TMJ
Plantar Fasciitis
Neuropathy
Heaedaches and Migraines
Bell's Palsy
Are laser therapy treatments painful? What is the experience like?
Laser therapy is administered directly to the skin, as laser light cannot penetrate through clothing. During treatment, patients typically feel a warm, soothing sensation. Many patients even enjoy the experience, especially when a massage-ball head is used to deliver what is often called a "laser massage."
For patients with chronic pain, the effects of higher-power laser therapy can be particularly pronounced, with many reporting rapid pain reduction. Laser therapy has become a popular treatment for musculoskeletal pain due to its safety and effectiveness.
Is laser therapy safe?
Class IV laser therapy devices, now referred to as photobiomodulation, were cleared by the FDA in 2004 for the safe and effective treatment of pain and increased micro-circulation. While there are risks to the eyes during laser therapy treatments, certified protective eyewear is always worn during treatments to minimize the risk of injury.
How long does a therapy session last?
With lasers, treatments are typically quick, lasting only 3-10 minutes depending on the size, depth, and acuteness of the condition being treated. High-power lasers are able to deliver a large amount of energy in a short period of time, allowing for fast and effective treatment that can easily fit into busy schedules.