Cold laser therapy, also referred to as near-infrared laser or low-level therapy. So, what is cold laser therapy? It can be defined as a low-intensity laser remedy and is used to treat numerous conditions including sprains, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, leg ulcers, arthritis, and other wide variety of conditions. It is a common treatment used by occupational therapists, physical therapists, chiropractors, and physiatrists. Cold laser is a non-invasive and painless remedy that has no serious types of side effects.

By the use of low levels of lights, it will work by stimulating a quick process of healing. It is described as a “cold” laser since it uses a low level of light which will not heat the body tissues. The level of light in laser therapy is quite low compared to other forms of laser therapy. There is no exact way of explaining how it works, but it is highly believed that therapy helps repairs connective and other types of tissues. During the process it aids in the process of releasing endorphins which reduces inflammation and pain.

What does Cold Laser Therapy Entail?

When taking a visit to your therapist, cold laser treatment does not involve a complicated process. During sessions, various types of wavelengths are administered together with low-level light and applied to the area that needs treatment. The targeted area will then absorb the light through the tissues. The near-infrared and red light induces a reaction causing the cells to start a physiological process to enhance regeneration. For superficial tissue injury, the wavelength used is between 600 and 700 nm (nanometers). For deeper tissue penetration, your therapist will use a wavelength between 780 and 950 nm. During the sessions, patients will only feel the laser device against their skin. Being a non-invasive and painless process, one will not feel anything else during the process. A normal session will take only a few minutes.

What Is Cold Laser Used For?

Whether its physical therapists, doctors, chiropractors, and other medical professionals, cold laser therapy can be used in the treatment of different conditions. It is mainly used for pain and inflammation relief and tissue therapy. Some of the conditions that need a laser therapy include the following:

1. Minor injuries and sprains – This is quite common in physical and sports medicine therapy. Cold laser is used in the treatment of tendonitis, ligament sprains, bursitis, knee pain, muscle strains, knee pain, and much more.
2. Inflammation – A good example is used by dentists in the healing of ulcerations in the mouth.
3. Aches and pains – Patients suffering from acute or chronic pain can benefit from cold laser therapy.
4. Skin rejuvenation – Dermatologists are known to use laser therapy to enhance skin rejuvenation. Some of the skin problems that can be treated include burns, acne, and dermatitis, among others.
5. Acupuncture – For patients who are not comfortable with needles, cold laser therapy will be used. The therapy can stimulate acupoints similar to needles.

Conclusion

It is important to know whether a cold laser is right for you. It has become a popular medical practice being adopted by numerous medical establishments. Laser therapy is considered quite safe when administered by a qualified practitioner.