We all deal with aches and pains at some point. Chiropractic treatments can often help, but sometimes different approaches are needed. Conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, frozen shoulder, neck pain, and back pain can benefit from Cold Laser Therapy, also known as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT).
What is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold Laser Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue, helping to speed up the healing process. It’s FDA-approved and has been shown to relieve symptoms like tingling, muscle weakness, and loss of sensation.
How Does Cold Laser Therapy Work?
Cold lasers are handheld devices, about the size of a flashlight. The clinician places the laser directly over the injured area for 30 seconds to several minutes, depending on the treatment area. The light penetrates the skin layers, reaching 2 to 5 centimeters below the surface. This light energy is absorbed by the cells, helping to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling, and speeding up the healing process.
Benefits of Cold Laser Therapy
Cold Laser Therapy can treat various conditions, including:
- Arthritis pain
- Back pain
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Fibromyalgia pain
- Knee pain
- Neck pain
- Tendonitis
Effectiveness and Research
Cold Laser Therapy has been used since the 1960s, and numerous studies have shown its effectiveness in pain relief. It’s particularly useful for acute injuries like sprains and strains, often showing results after just one session. Chronic pain may require multiple sessions for noticeable improvement.
FDA Recognition and Laser Categories
The FDA classifies medical lasers into three categories:
- Class 4 Surgical Lasers: Used for cutting and vaporizing tissue.
- Class 3B Non-surgical Lasers: Used for deeper tissue and joint problems.
- Class 3A Low-Level Lasers: Used for superficial wounds and conditions.
Class 3B lasers were first cleared by the FDA in 2002 for treating carpal tunnel syndrome. These lasers can help with muscle and joint pain, arthritis stiffness, muscle spasms, hand and wrist pain, neck pain, lower back pain, and wound healing.
Advantages of Cold Laser Therapy
- Non-invasive: No surgical incision is required.
- No medications: Patients can avoid taking drugs.
- Few side effects: When used properly, it has no serious side effects.
Disadvantages of Cold Laser Therapy
- Multiple treatments needed: Relief often requires a series of treatments (8 to 30 sessions).
- Insurance coverage: Medicare and Medicaid do not cover expenses, and coverage by other insurers varies.
Contraindications
Cold Laser Therapy should not be used:
- Over suspicious cancerous lesions or carcinoma
- Over the thyroid
- On pregnant patients
- Directly on the eyes
Conclusion
Cold Laser Therapy is a viable option for those seeking non-invasive pain relief without surgery or drugs. While it’s relatively new and optimal treatment protocols are still being refined, it’s a promising alternative for managing various types of pain.
