Low Level Laser Therapy

Laser therapy works by converting light energy into biochemical energy. While this might sound a bit confusing at first, think of it as the same way that plants absorb sunlight and convert it into usable energy to grow. With laser therapy, the body converts the wavelengths delivered by the laser into energy that it can use to heal damaged tissue.

The laser is placed either directly on or slightly above the skin at the site of the injury, so that it can penetrate the tissue below. This is typically performed while a patient is sitting on the treatment table, or while they are lying down in a relaxed position. The laser is then gently swept across the skin, directing the laser’s energy into the injured or inflamed area. While this process is pain-free, it is common to experience a soothing, warming sensation in the treated area.

Laser therapy typically lasts anywhere from three to ten minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. During the treatment, the light energy from the laser stimulates the cells within the tissue itself. Specifically, the wavelengths stimulate:

• The Mitochondria: The “powerhouse of the cell” you heard all about in eighth grade biology. The mitochondria trigger cellular reproduction and growth, meaning that once it’s been stimulated, the injured area experiences an expedited cellular growth and energy.
• The Fibroblast: The light energy provided by lasers stimulates development of fibroblast, the cells in connective tissue that produce collagen and other fibers needed to heal damaged tissue. This leads to faster wound healing and a reduction in recovery time.
• Metabolic Activity: Laser treatment encourages a rush of oxygen-rich blood to the affected area, helping the body to increase immune response and the enzyme count necessary to expedite the healing process.

Together, these reactions catalyze healing in the body, alleviating pain and inflammation, and lessening recovery time. Other notable side effects of laser treatment include:

• Reduced fibrous tissue or scar tissue
• Anti-inflammatory reaction
• Improved joint mobility
• Improved blood circulation
• Increased nerve function – limiting tingling and numbness felt at the site of the injury

As laser therapy is a drug-free and surgery-free treatment, many are turning to its non-invasive properties for relief. This unique therapy is suitable for most individuals suffering from damage or trauma to the soft tissue, including those with medical implants. As laser therapy is a light treatment, those with surgical or medical implants can still experience laser therapy for pain and inflammation relief without fearing they will comprise their implants.

Specifically, laser therapy could be beneficial for those currently suffering:

• Cervical spine pain
• Whiplash
• Lumbar spine pain
• Knee pain
• Shoulder pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Arthritis or joint pain
• Stiffness in the joints
• Sciatica
• Carpal tunnel pain
• Muscle spasms
• Chronic headaches or migraines
• Post surgical patients
• Neuropathy

Unlike many traditional pain relief treatment options for the above conditions, laser therapy is effective without the need for narcotics or steroid injections. The wavelengths of laser therapy can safely and gently promote healing in the body by catalyzing the natural series of reactions and expediting the healing process. For this reason, laser therapy has little to no risks involved.

The body is a powerful tool. By unlocking the powerhouse of the cell, along with other high functioning cellular processes, laser therapy stimulates natural healing, pain relief, and anti-inflammatory properties in a faster amount of time. The time for suffering is over. Contact West Sound Chiropractic in Silverdale, WA today to learn more about our laser therapy services.