Low Intensity Laser Therapy
What is Laser Therapy & How Does It Work?
Low intensity laser therapy, also known as cold or low level laser therapy is a modality that can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. It works by supplying energy to the body in the form of light that penetrates deep into tissue and is absorbed at the cellular level. The cells transform this energy into chemical energy which the body then uses to begin its own tissue repairs.
The effect of laser therapy causes a decrease in inflammation and pain and an increase in tissue regeneration and healing.
What Conditions Are Treatable With Low Intensity Laser?
This is a short list of musculoskeletal conditions that we effectively treat using laser therapy.
- low back pain
- arthritis
- neck pain
- plantar fasciitis/heel pain
- sprains & strains
- tendonitis
- tennis/golfer’s elbow
- bursitis
- carpal tunnel syndrome
- knee pain
- hip pain
And many more…
What Does a Laser Treatment Feel Like?
Low intensity laser treatments are completely painless. There are two general types of lasers- high power lasers that cut through tissues and low intensity lasers which stimulate tissue repair. Low intensity lasers have a non-thermal effect, which means that the laser does not increase in temperature and is therefore not perceived by the person receiving the treatment.
Is Low-Intensity Laser Therapy Safe?
Yes. The treatments are non-traumatic, non-invasive and non-toxic. There are no known side effects from this type of laser therapy. The lasers themselves are not strong enough to cause cell damage. Low intensity laser treatments are even safe for use in children and the elderly. Because low intesity lasers stimulate cell division, this form of treatment is not used on individuals that have cancer.
Is Laser Therapy Covered by Insurance?
If your insurance coverage includes chiropractic, then laser therapy is covered for treatments performed in our office. All laser therapy sessions are provided by a Doctor of Chiropractic, who is certified to perform this form of treatment. The cost per session is equal to a chiropractic treatment. Please call our office to inquire about our fee schedule.
How Long is a Laser Therapy Session?
Treatment times will vary from as little as two minutes (if another treatment like ART or an adjustment is provided) to as long as twenty minutes. The total number of treatments depends on the severity of the condition and the patient’s natural healing rate.