Light is electromagnetic energy. Electromagnetic energy is commonly measured by wavelength. Visible light has a wavelength range from 380nm to 740nm.
Each color in the visible light spectrum represents a different wavelength. Visible light, which lies in a narrow band between ultraviolet and infrared, represents a tiny portion of the many wavelengths of electromagnetic energy:
Somewhat less than half of the Sun’s electromagnetic energy reaching the earth is visible light. Were it not for the Sun, and all the wavelengths of electromagnetic energy it gives, there would be no life on Earth. Life on earth is powered by light energy. Laser therapy light is infra-red electro-magnetic energy entering the body as photons. The light beam of photons stays fairly narrow and does not diverge like a regular light bulb. The amount and depth of penetration from this photonic energy depends on a number of different factors related to the patient and the power of the laser equipment. The most powerful lasers are single wavelength, continuous wave, high output lasers.
Research shows tissues targeted by High Power Laser Therapy are stimulated to increase production of a cellular enzyme (Cytochrome C Oxidase) that is critical to the production of ATP. ATP is the currency of chemical energy in living cells. With increased ATP production and thus greater cellular energy a host of biological responses are facilitated, such as mediation of pain, reduction of inflammation, reduced scar tissue, increased cell metabolism, improved vascular activity, and accelerated healing. This is the photo-chemical effect of High Power Laser Therapy.
What this all means is that many common conditions can be helped with High Power Laser Therapy, especially in combination with the other therapies we provide such as Active Release Techniques soft tissue treatment.
These are examples of conditions treated with High Power Laser Therapy:
Arthritis
Bone spurs
Plantar Fascitis
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Golfers Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Rotator Cuff Strains and Tears
DeQuervains Tenosynovitis
TMJ
Herniated Discs
Tendinosis & Tendinitis
Enthesopathies
Stress Fractures
Shin Splints
knee pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Ligament Tears
Sciatica
Bunions
Hip Discomfort
Neck Ache
Back Pain
Muscle Strains
Joint Sprains
Achilles Tendinitis
Nerve Conditions
Healing After Surgery
About Risks of High Power Laser Therapy:
High Power Laser Therapy is not indicated in cases of pregnancy, malignant skin tumors, or people using medication that produces photosensitivity. As the laser penetrates he skin there will be a local increase in skin temperature. No topical lotions should be used during laser therapy. High Power Laser Therapy requires eye protection during the procedure.