What is Laser Therapy?
To make an educated decision regarding laser therapy, you should know what it is and how it works. It may sound high-tech or intimidating, but it’s not. It’s a safe, painless, and effective solution for damaged tissues.
The process is easy: we first protect the necessary areas of the body and eyes, then point the light from a small handheld device over your injuries. The treatment usually creates a warm sensation on the skin and offers immediate soothing and comfort by reducing inflammation and other soft tissue dysfunctions.
Common benefits of receiving laser therapy include:
- Reduced swelling and inflammation
- Reduced healing time
- Improved muscle mobility and range of motion
- Improved circulation to the injury
- Enhanced joint flexibility
- Improved comfort
- Restored motion patterns
- Reduced muscles spasms
- Stimulates soft tissue regeneration and bone repair
How Does Laser Therapy Work?
Red and near-infrared laser light is administered over the injured tissues, pushing photons through the skin to reach cells. This process invigorates circulation, carrying healthy blood, oxygen, and nutrients to the injury and reducing discomfort.
Does Laser Therapy Hurt? What Does it Feel Like?
There is little to no sensation during the treatment. Occasionally, the patient may feel mild warmth or tingling, and treatment areas may briefly feel sensitive before pain relief. The laser’s impact can last up to 24 hours after the session, so there may be mild sensations afterward but no discomfort.
Laser therapy is gentle and can be used on many patients, including pregnant women, children, and seniors.
Are There Any Side Effects from Laser Therapy?
During more than twenty years of use by healthcare providers worldwide, very few side effects have ever been reported. Old injuries or chronic pain areas may have some sensitivity for a few days post-treatment in response to the healing process.
How Long Before Results Are Felt from Laser Therapy?
You may feel improvement in your condition (usually pain reduction) after the first treatment; however, sometimes improvement isn’t felt for a more extended period.
Each treatment is cumulative, and results are often felt after three or four sessions.
