HOW DOES LOW LASER THERAPY WORK?

LLLT involves exposing tissue to low levels of red and near infrared (NIR) light, and is referred to as “low level” because of its use of light at energy densities that are low compared to other forms of laser therapy that are used for surgery, cutting and thermally heating tissue. LLLT appears to have a wide range of effects at the molecule, cell, and tissue levels. Within the cell, there is strong evidence to suggest that LLLT acts on the energy-making part of the cell (called mitochondria) to increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production which is then used as additional energy for cell repair. It has also been demonstrated that LLLT causes protein synthesis in the cell which then triggers a cascade of downstream effects including increased cell proliferation, modulating certain cell factors (cytokines, prostaglandins, etc.) that are related to inflammation, and affects nitric oxide release which is a potent smooth muscle dilator. LLLT is also used to treat pain and it is thought to do so by local site stimulation and release of serotonin and acetylcholine.

WHO USES LOW-LEVEL LASER THERAPY?

Chiropractors use LLLT to treat a variety of ailments, such as pain, nerve damage and tissue damage. Many people with chronic lower back pain and osteoarthritis have reported great improvements. Since its inception in 1960, LLLT has helped people all over the world. Low-level laser therapy is safe and effective for people of all ages and has been used as a primary pain solution for professional and Olympic athletes in Canada for over 20 years.