Laser therapy is a safe and effective technique that offers promising results. Laser therapy consists of various methods, such as CWLT, PLT, SLT, LLLT, HILT, Cold Laser Therapy, HLT, VLLT, ILT, DLT, MWLT, and CPLT, to promote healing, improve circulation and cellular metabolism, reduce inflammation, pain relief, and alleviate symptoms. Its applications are diverse and vary according to the power of the laser beam, the physical area to be applied, and the condition to be treated.
Light Amplification of Stimulated Emissions of Radiation, or LASER, is a specific technique that acts locally or systemically through quick sessions and can be associated with other practical clinical tools. We can classify laser therapy devices based on their power, wavelength, duration, exposure, and intended use. The classification system (Class 1, Class 2, Class 3R, Class 3B, and Class 4) helps ensure the safe use of laser devices for various applications.
What is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold laser therapy, known by the acronym LLLT (Low-Level Laser Therapy or CLT), is a medical treatment that uses low-power laser beams with various objectives, the most common being the treatment of wound healing (pain and inflammation). The development of CLT began in 1967. The name does not refer to the temperature of the laser itself, but as opposed to the high-intensity laser that can burn skin.
Functioning and mechanism of action –
The cold laser therapy technique in Guelph involves exposing the skin to laser beams according to a set of previously established intervals, times, and depths. The low-intensity laser beam is supposed to stimulate damaged cells, promoting their healing while decreasing pain and inflammation.
LLLT can also reduce pain associated with inflammation by reducing chemical mediators involved in the inflammatory process, including prostaglandin E2, interleukin 1-beta, tumour necrosis factor alpha, and enzyme II. The most common types of laser are gallium arsenide, gallium and aluminum arsenide, Aluminum-gallium-indium and phosphorus, and helium and neon.
Wound healing and CLT
The healing process is complex, and depending on the size of the lesion, it is necessary to intervene with specific measures to avoid discomfort for the patient. The inflammation involves the participation of lymphocytes, fibroblasts and many inflammatory mediators. The application of Cold Laser Therapy can excite lymphocytes and promote their activation and proliferation, significantly contributing to facilitating healing. Some studies already show that the CLT can increase the production of ATP, increase the speed of mitosis and stimulate microcirculation.
What is ATP?
ATP is the fuel or energy source that all cells need to function and repair. Interestingly, laser therapy does not affect healthy cells. Cold Laser Therapy provides damaged cells in the body with the energy they need to function correctly and repair damage faster. Without such repair processes, cells remain damaged, and the result is that people who have injuries continue to suffer from pain that won’t go away. Laser therapy can speed healing of injured areas, decrease inflammation and eliminate pain.
Types of wounds CLT can heal.
Cold laser therapy has been used to promote healing and accelerate recovery for various wounds and conditions. While their effectiveness can vary based on factors such as the type of wound, the specific parameters of the laser used, and individual patient characteristics, CLT has shown potential.
Chronic Wounds
CLT has been used to heal chronic wounds, such as diabetic, venous, and pressure ulcers. These therapies can help improve blood circulation, stimulate collagen production, and reduce inflammation, essential for wound healing.
Surgical Incisions
CLT can enhance surgical incision healing by promoting tissue repair, reducing scar formation, and accelerating overall recovery.
Burn Wounds
Cold laser therapy has been investigated for its potential to reduce pain and inflammation associated with burn wounds and to promote faster healing and tissue regeneration.
Traumatic Wounds
Laser therapy can aid in the healing of wounds resulting from accidents, injuries, or trauma. It can assist in reducing pain, inflammation, and the risk of infection while supporting tissue repair.
Wound Infections
Laser therapy’s antimicrobial properties can help reduce the risk of infection in wounds, supporting a cleaner healing process.
Surgical Procedures
Cold laser therapy has accelerated healing after various surgical and dental procedures, including extractions, implant placements, and oral surgeries.
Pressure Sores
Individuals with limited mobility are prone to developing pressure sores. Laser therapy can aid in healing these sores by promoting blood flow, reducing inflammation, and facilitating tissue repair.
Non-Healing Ulcers
Ulcers that are slow to heal due to underlying conditions or poor blood circulation can benefit from laser therapy to stimulate healing and promote new tissue growth.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Cold laser therapy can treat various soft tissue injuries, such as strains, sprains, and muscle tears. It can help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation while supporting tissue repair.
Sports Injuries
Athletes often experience injuries such as ligament sprains, tendonitis, and contusions. CLT can be used as part of rehabilitation to accelerate healing and reduce downtime.
How is the CLT treatment done?
Cold Laser Therapy is like a skilled artist delicately crafting healing. Picture a portable device about 6mm above your wound, like a wizard’s wand. Slowly, it moved around the wounded area and the neighboring healthy skin, weaving its magic. Cold laser therapy is like an encore that builds up the healing effects, shortening the time a wound or burn stays in the limelight.
It orchestrates tissue repair to perfection, avoiding scars and wound contraction. There is only one rule: give the wound 24-48 hours post-bleeding before the laser therapy begins. If infection knocks, the blue light laser is a natural antibacterial superhero. Sessions are short and breezes, lasting 5-20 minutes. Depending on your condition, you may need to get a daily session.
The number of cold laser therapy sessions and the duration of each session will depend on how your wound is reacting. Talk to your therapist now!
What is the post-treatment care?
Although Cold Laser Therapy is an efficient and effective procedure, post-treatment care is essential and fundamental to achieve a good recovery and results. Good post-treatment care helps reduce the risk of complications and have a better degree of satisfaction. The care routine depends on each one –
- Clean the skin with the product that your doctor considers appropriate.
- Maintain good skin hydration.
- Never pull the skin or small scabs.
- Avoid sun exposure and always use sunscreen.
Is CLT for you?
Cold laser therapy in Guelph is like a breeze – noninvasive, nontoxic, and painless. There is no need for medications or complicated preparations. It’s as simple as it sounds and uses light, not heat, to do its magic. But like all stars, it has its quirks. Cold laser therapy isn’t recommended to treat cancerous spots. Oh, and for moms-to-be, it’s better to miss this one during pregnancy.
Now, here’s the catch – patience is key. Each session is a speedy affair, just a few minutes. But here’s the twist: You might need to wait a month, with up to four sessions a week, to see if it’s working. So, while cold laser therapy plays a fascinating role in healthcare, ensure it fits your story just right.
How effective is Cold Laser Therapy?
There is some controversy surrounding cold laser therapy in the medical field. Patients interested in CLT or Cold Laser Therapy should seek professional advice before deciding. There has yet to be a consensus about the ideal location to direct the laser, which wavelengths to use, dosage or duration of treatment. Despite this, LLLT protocols have proven to have a high effectiveness in the short-term improvement of pain and discomfort associated with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, neck pain, tendinopathy, and other chronic joint disorders. The evidence seems more promising in lumbar pain relief, wound healing, and treating gum disease and dental implant infections. CLT has nominal side effects, such as skin discoloration, pain, or swelling.
What is the difference between blue light laser and cold laser therapy?
Blue light and cold laser therapy differ in their applications and effects. Blue light laser therapy employs a specific wavelength to target bacteria and is often used to treat infections. On the other hand, cold laser therapy utilizes various wavelengths to stimulate cellular processes, promote tissue repair, and alleviate pain.
Can CLT be done at home?
Yes, cold laser therapy can sometimes be done at home using portable devices designed for personal use. These devices are typically designed to provide lower-power laser treatment, making them safer for home use. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before attempting CLT at home to ensure that it’s appropriate for your specific condition and to receive proper guidance on using the device effectively and safely.
What makes CLT different from HILT?
Cold laser therapy and high-intensity laser therapy differ in terms of power and intended use. HILT uses powerful lasers for deeper tissue penetration, often used for conditions like musculoskeletal injuries and pain management. CLT is gentler and safer for superficial applications, such as wound healing.
Complement wound healing at home with these tips
- Fuel your body with nutrients like vitamin C and protein.
- Keep wounds clean to prevent infection.
- Allow your body time to heal by getting enough rest.
- Stay hydrated to support overall healing.
- Use sterile dressings and ointments as directed.
- Smoking delays healing, so consider quitting.
- Keep conditions like diabetes in check to aid healing.
- Minimize stress for improved healing.
Other conditions treated with CLT
Cold laser therapy in Guelph casts a wide net of healing possibilities. Here’s a glimpse into the issues it works its magic on:
- Inflammation Reduction
- Musculoskeletal Issues
- Neck and Back Pain
- Joint Disorders
- Nerve Regeneration
- Skin Conditions
- Hair Growth
- Dental Procedures
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Lymph edema
- Fibromyalgia
- Nail Fungus
- Foot Ulcers
- TMJ Disorder
Is CLT a costly intervention?
Cold laser therapy costs vary based on the provider, condition, location, and number of sessions needed. While it can be an investment in your health, the exact cost will depend on your treatment plan. Inquiring with healthcare professionals or clinics for accurate pricing information is advisable. However, the price should not be the definitive factor. Evaluate the relationship between qualities and prices integrally.
Information about the process
You must know all the details of the cold laser therapy treatment in Guelph from start to finish. Therefore, it is convenient to choose a specialized center that clearly answers all their patients’ doubts. Beyond your questions, the center itself must explain the details of the process in simple and understandable language. It is also advisable to resolve any doubts before starting the first session. The clinic must provide each patient with a contract. Before signing this document, please carefully read the information about treatment.
Best Cold laser therapy for you
Do you find anything similar to your condition? Do you know someone who might need CLT? A professional therapist must carry out treatment like Cold laser therapy, as the application of CLT is diverse and requires professional advice. Feel free to visit Pacific Physio, where we can treat your wound with our latest Cold laser therapy in Guelph.