Laser therapy, also known as photobiomodulation therapy, is a cutting-edge treatment option that is increasingly being used in physiotherapy to treat a wide range of conditions. Low-level lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are used in the therapy to deliver light energy to the cells of the body, which can help to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing.
One of the most important advantages of laser therapy is its ability to penetrate deep into the tissue and target specific areas of injury or inflammation. As a result, it is a viable treatment option for conditions such as:
- Sprains, strains, and tendinitis are examples of soft tissue injuries.
- Osteoarthritis and arthritis
- Back and neck discomfort
- Post-operative recovery
- Trigeminal neuralgia and carpal tunnel syndrome are examples of neuralgia.
The therapy works by stimulating the body’s cells, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the area, and decreasing inflammation. This can help to speed up the healing process while also reducing pain and discomfort.
Laser therapy is also non-invasive, non-toxic, and does not necessitate the use of pharmaceuticals. It is also a painless procedure, with patients typically experiencing a warm sensation during treatment. It’s also a quick procedure that takes only a few minutes to complete, making it an excellent choice for those who are short on time.
It’s critical to remember that laser therapy should be used in conjunction with other physiotherapy treatments like exercises, manual therapy, and education. Your physiotherapist will devise a comprehensive treatment plan for you that will include laser therapy and other treatment options appropriate for your condition.
If you are in pain or discomfort, you should consult a physiotherapist to determine the best course of treatment for you. R3 Physiotherapy is here to assist you in your quest to reduce pain and improve joint mobility. Our physiotherapists are laser therapy trained and experienced, and they will work with you to develop a treatment plan that is specific to your needs.
References:
- Rampazo, É.P. et al. (2020) ‘Photobiomodulation therapy and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation on chronic neck pain patients: Study protocol clinical trial (SPIRIT Compliant)’, Medicine (Baltimore), 99(8), pp. e19191–e19191.
- Della Santa, G.M.L. et al. (2021) ‘Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy (LED 630 nm) on Muscle and Nerve Histomorphometry after Axonotmesis’, Photochemistry and photobiology, 97(5), pp. 1116–1122.
- Tomazoni, S.S. et al. (2019) ‘Infrared Low-Level Laser Therapy (Photobiomodulation Therapy) before Intense Progressive Running Test of High-Level Soccer Players: Effects on Functional, Muscle Damage, Inflammatory, and Oxidative Stress Markers—A Randomized Controlled Trial’, Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity, 2019, pp. 6239058–12.