what is low level laser therapy and does it work?

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Nov 02 6:43 PM posted by author Lupe Haas

After watching Dr. Jennifer Jara, a licensed chiropractor, work her magic with lower laser therapy for Ricki Lake on the “How To Stop The Pain” episode, I decided to try out the laser therapy for my own persistent carpal tunnel pain.

The chiropractic portion of Dr. Jara's treatment was nothing new for me, but did the laser therapy help with my over-worked arms?  It actually did help relieve some of the pain, but it left me wondering how these laser lights could actually improve the inflamed areas.  How does laser therapy work? Dr. Jara explains.

What is Low Level Laser Therapy?

Low Level Laser therapy is the use of low intensity photonic energy as a treatment modality. Photons are the unit measurement of light therefore the lasers use light at a low level healing frequencies. 

How does Low Level Laser (3LT™) work?

Photonic stimuli excite the body's cells infusing them with energy, with the three primary reactions being, reduction of inflammation, cell regeneration, and increased blood flow (circulation). Lasers penetrate the body into the cells and excite the mitochondria (the cells "powerhouse" where 90% of the energy you use is derived) therefore creating "good" energy in the form of ATP (Adenosine-triposphate) that promotes healing, circulation and rebuilding of the soft tissue and bone in the body. 

What are some conditions treated by Low Level Lasers?

Headaches, Migraines, Cranial Faults, Tinnitus (ringing in the ear), Ear infections, Spine, (Neck, Mid and Low Back), Disc Herniations, Disc Bulges-Protrusion, Shoulder, Ribs, Elbows, Hands, Carpal Tunnel, Tennis-Golfers elbow, Tendonitis (anywhere), Organs, Detoxify, Sciatica, Hips, Muscle Strains, Fibrotic Conditions, Ligament Sprains, Knee, Meniscus Tears, Sprained Ankles, Broken Bones, Degenerative conditions of the spine and body and Joint Replacements. Skin conditions such as eczema, rashes, fungi, burns, acne and post surgical scars. Erchonia lasers also have numerous cosmetic treatments available.

What are the benefits of low-laser therapy?

Low Level Laser Therapy is a noninvasive, fast and effective modality that has been proven in clinical trial to reduce pain, reduce edema and promote healing through cellular regeneration. 

How safe is Low Level Laser Therapy?

Low Level Laser Therapy has is very safe, the only general precaution is the use of special filtering glasses when a class 3B laser is in use. 

How deep into the tissue can laser light penetrate?

The lasers penetrate the photonic energy deep therefore creating significant physiologic changes. The depth of penetration is dependent on multiple factors including mass and density, however since low level laser has been proven in clinical study to effect subcutaneous cells; the point is low level laser, does penetrate; as opposed to the heat lamp devices that do not. 

Is Low Level Laser Therapy painful?

No, our office has never had a patient report any negative sensation. Erchonia states that most people do not feel anything, for those that have reported a feeling; it is nothing more than a slight sensation of tingling. 

How is Low Level Laser Therapy administered?

Each hand held laser is about the size of a standard remote control. The mechanics of how low level laser therapy is administered is based on the indication for use, however; the general process is the probe containing the laser diode(s) are held in place or moved gently over the treatment area at a distance of anywhere from 4" - 12."  

How long does it take for the laser to heal or improve a condition?

This is dependent of the application, however; progress is immediately evident. 

Dr. Jennifer Jara runs a Los Angeles-based private practice.. For more information, visit CorrectMyBack.com.