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Low-level laser therapy for pain

by Dr. Wendy CunninghamDC
| August 7, 2013 9:00 PM

Have you been looking for a safe, drug-free solution to your pain? Low Level Laser therapy (also referred to as Cold Laser Therapy) uses low intensity photonic energy to reduce pain, reduce edema and promote healing through cellular regeneration. Dr. Oz called it a "no pill pain buster."

Low-level laser therapy works by using photonic stimuli to excite the targeted cells, so they will produce more energy. The three primary reactions are reduction of inflammation, cell regeneration, and increased blood flow (circulation). Lasers penetrate into the cells and excite the mitochondria (the little power plants of your cells), therefore creating energy in the form of ATP that promotes healing and rebuilding of the soft tissue and bone in the body.

There have been numerous studies showing the low level laser decreases pain and speeds the healing of tissue through increased cellular efficiency and energy. One such study from the Australian Journal of Physiotherapy of 61 patients presenting with chronic low-back pain concluded that low-level laser therapy combined with exercise was more effective long term than exercise alone. The amazing thing about this study is that the patients who had laser therapy were still experiencing significant pain relief 6 weeks after therapy was provided.

The following is a partial list of conditions treated by low level lasers: Headaches, migraines, tinnitus, ear infections, joint pain, disc bulges and herniations, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, sciatica, strains and sprains, meniscus tears, broken bones, and joint replacements. It is used for skin conditions such as eczema, rashes, fungi, burns, acne and postsurgical scars. Lasers also have numerous cosmetic treatment applications.

Increasing cellular efficiency and healing ability through use of low level laser therapy is a safe and effective alternative to pain medications.

For more information, email Dr. Wendy at haydenhealth@gmail.com.