Laser therapy is used to increase the speed, quality and strength of tissue repair, resolve inflammation and provide pain relief. Low-level laser is completely pain-free, typically nothing or only slight warmth is detected.
The low-level laser can be effective in the treatment of:
- Sprains and strains of ligaments, tendons and muscles
- Wounds and abrasions, including the healing of post-surgical incisions
- Haematomas
- Joint injuries
- Trigger points, and can be used over acupuncture points in those that are needle-phobic
- Acute and chronic pain
How does Low-Level Laser Work?
The effects of laser are chemical and mechanical, not thermal (hence the term cold laser). The laser creates photon-absorption, the photonic energy is converted to chemical energy within the cell and is then utilised by the cells. Basically, laser speeds up cell reactions by providing energy to the cells, and so can speed up healing.
Laser radiation (light) is also reflected, refracted and scattered through the tissues which do create temperature and pressure gradients across the cell membranes, increasing the rate of diffusion across those membranes. So, providing increased nutrition to the cells, and again assisting with healing.
In summary, the laser can have the following effects:
- Increased cell metabolism
- Improved localized blood circulation
- Development of collagen and muscle tissue
- Relief from acute and chronic pain
- Reduced localized inflammation and edema
- Stimulation of the immune system
- Stimulation of nerve function
Laser therapy is available to ProActive Rehab as part of a physiotherapy rehabilitation programme. If you are suffering from any of the conditions listed above please take a look at our website or give us a call for further information.
