Low level laser therapy aims to biostimulate. Because of the low power nature of low level lasers, the effects are biochemical and not thermal and cannot cause heating and thereby damage to living tissue. Four distinct effects are known to occur when using low level laser therapy:
A) Growth factor response within cells and tissue as a result of increased ATP and protein synthesis; Improved cell proliferation; Change in cell membrane permeability to calcium up-take.
B) Pain relief as a result of increased endorphin release; Increased serotonin; Suppression of nociceptor action.
C) Strengthening the immune system response via increasing levels of lymphocyte activity and through a newly researched mechanism termed photomodulation of blood.
D) Acupuncture point stimulation.
Parameters for Use
Three parameters are important for clinicians to achieve the best possible therapeutic effects when using low level laser.
A) Selection of the correct beneficial Wavelength
B) The use of the correct Power levels
C) The consistent application of the necessary amount of Energy measured in Joules. Another factor which has to be considered in laser therapy is Pulsing Frequency.
Infrared (Invisible) Laser Probes with Wavelengths between 780 and 950nm.
• Absorbed through the cell walls (acting differently between cells) and therefore cell response is more wavelength specific in the infrared range, responding differently to different wavelengths
• More penetrative through the tissue, especially the 785-830nm range, therefore this range is selected for treatment through intact skin and pain relief
Red Light Laser Probes with Wavelengths between 620 and 675nm.