2022 Beginner's Guide to Laser Therapy

The world of laser therapy can be a confusing place. Terms like class IV, cold laser therapy (CLT), low-level laser therapy (LLLT), and even photobiomodulation (PBM) are all over the internet and can make digesting information about therapeutic laser treatment hard. In this blog post we’ll be attempting to answer some common questions, point out important information to look for, and hopefully provide you with enough basic laser knowledge to ensure you get the most out of your laser therapy experience.

We’re often asked what Class IV, CLT, LLLT, and PBM mean, so we’ll begin with defining those terms. Class IV describes the types of lasers that are used in laser therapy. These lasers are typically higher powered and allow for better tissue penetration than class I-III lasers, which are found in your home, office, or manufacturing.

When laser therapy first became available for human use many terms were coined to describe the therapy process. These terms included cold laser therapy (CLT) and low-level laser therapy (LLLT). As with most therapy devices once laser therapy became available to the public there was a rash of late-night devices that hit infomercials everywhere claiming to fall under these categories. This influx of inferior machines spurred the need in the laser world for clear barriers in what laser therapy is and can do. Today, Photobiomodulation (PBM) is considered the appropriate term for the use of laser therapy on tissue.

What is Laser Therapy and what does it do?

 Laser therapy is the non-invasive, non-thermal application of light energy to stimulate cells. Once stimulated by the near-infrared light, cells in the affected area generate more energy and undergo self-repair. There are no known negative side effects from the use of PBM on cells.

When looking into laser therapy remember that not all laser devices are created equal. It’s important to use a PBM provider that utilizes a class IV laser that works somewhere between 808-908nm wavelengths. These ranges are great for not only tissue regeneration, but also in managing inflammation, and pain relief.

Can I be treated if I don’t have a diagnosis?

Laser therapy should always be performed by knowledgeable staff and under the direct supervision of a physician. Currently, some establishments do not require a diagnosis before treatment begins. Doing so is a bit like shooting at a target blindfolded. Treatment protocols for conditions vary widely in time, intensity, and technique. Having a diagnosis before treatment is essential in evaluating the efficacy of a treatment protocol for the patient, and in understanding how to manage treatment for the best possible results.

6 Steps to Improve Your Surgical Experience

Surgeries can be scary. Many people put off much needed procedures because they’re afraid of the outcome, pain, or the time that might be required to get back into “normal” activities. While every surgery is different, there are some tips and tricks that can help ease these worries. We’ve compiled a handy list of things to consider before surgery to get you ready for the big day.

1.      Talk to your Doctor. This seems like a no brainer, right? Many people become shell shocked once the word surgery comes into play. No one wants to have a procedure done, and sometimes even the possibility that it might be needed and everything it entails can leave your head spinning. Most doctors will set up specific appointments to talk to you about what you can expect with your healing, surgical procedure, and care afterward.

2.      Follow ALL of your Doctor’s recommendations to the letter. Your doctor’s care instructions are not a guideline. They’re recommendations that are made to help ease you through the healing process, and when followed to the letter can reduce the risk of post-surgical problems as well as decrease recovery time.

3.      Listen to your body. Many of us are not good at taking it easy. We all want to get back into routines as quickly as possible. Listening to your body and resting when an area becomes achy, tired, or painful will give you the best chance at a speedier recovery.

4.      Ice. Your body’s natural response to trauma (surgery) is to increase inflammation in the area. Following most surgeries, ice is your best friend because it decreases inflammation in the area.

5.      Keep your incisions dry and clean. Depending on the surgery, each procedure has specific care guidelines unique to the procedure being done. We often have friends who’ve had surgery, and what worked for them, may not be appropriate for you. After care instructions given by your doctor should always be followed to the letter to prevent infection or other complications.

6.      Ask about therapy options. People often think of therapy and immediately think of traditional physical therapy or rehabilitation centers. However, many less traditional forms of physical therapy can aid the healing process. These therapies can ease the transition from surgery into activity, and make the process pain-free.

Laser therapy is a great example of an alternative form of physical therapy that significantly increases healing when used post-surgically (patients who make laser therapy a part of their surgical care heal 30-40% faster, and have less scarring along their incision sites.) Laser therapy also helps manage pain, and decreases inflammation.

As always we hope this information helps you make an informed decision about your care. If you missed our blog post on the phases of healing, or would like additional information on laser therapy check out our other posts here.