MEDICAL LASER TREATMENT = PAIN RELEIF!
What is laser therapy?
Therapeutic laser therapy was approved by the FDA in 2002 but was first invented in the 1960’s. It has been called many things over the years such as “low level laser therapy” and “cold laser.” The more modern term is “photobiomodulation.” Therapeutic lasers use various wavelengths of both visible red light and invisible infrared light. These specific wavelengths have been well studied and are known to have healing effects. The best therapeutic lasers are known as “class 4 lasers.” We have a Summus brand class 4 medical laser at New Hampshire Natural Health Clinic. Summus is generally recognized as a leader in laser technology. Our class 4 laser alternates between four well-studied wave lengths during a treatment session assuring that our patients get an optimal treatment.
What type of conditions can be treated with laser?
Laser is good for treating most pain conditions including neuropathy which has very few effective treatment options. The most common conditions that are treated with laser are: sciatica/low back pain, neck pain, arthritis, trigger points, muscle spasms, shoulder pain, knee pain, hand pain, elbow pain, hip pain, heel pain, foot pain, and headaches.
How long are the treatments, how often will I need them, and when can I expect to see results?
The average treatment is between 4-8 minutes although treatments for neuropathy take longer. For chronic conditions we recommend 12 sessions over 6 weeks and then monthly maintenance treatments as needed. For acute conditions we recommend 6 sessions over 3 weeks. Most people note a decrease in pain within 3 treatments (sometimes during the first treatment.) The pain reduction usually lasts 24-48 hours and the positive effects are cumulative over the course of multiple treatments.
How do therapeutic lasers work?
Laser light reduces inflammation, pain, and has a cellular healing effect. Because of this cell healing effect it can be categorized as “regenerative medicine” which is very popular these days. Specifically, laser increases circulation which brings nutrition, oxygen, blood cells, and water to an injured body part. It also stimulates ATP production in cell mitochondria which gives the body energy to heal tissues. This is a much healthier mechanism than typical pain reducers/anti-inflammatories such as NSAIDS and steroids. These mediations provide temporary relief but have many side effects. They do not promote long term healing of damaged tissues. Laser when appropriately applied has very few potential side effects.
Why doesn’t my insurance cover this?
Insurance companies are very hesitant to cover any new therapies because they think it will affect their bottom line. The opioid epidemic has highlighted the need for alternative forms of pain management. As the demand for safe and effective pain management increases, laser therapy may begin to be covered by insurance companies. We encourage you to talk to your insurance company and request that they start covering laser therapy. If enough of us do, it will make a difference!
Top Ten Treatments:
1. Low Back Pain / Sciatica
2. Neck Pain / Arthritis
3. Muscle Spasms / Trigger Points
4. Knee Pain
5. Shoulder Pain
6. Elbow and Hand Pain
7. Hip Pain
8. Foot and Heel Pain
9. Headaches
10. Neuropathy