LIGHT THERAPY – PHOTOBIOMODULATION
LASER THERAPY: AN OVERVIEW
Laser therapy delivers specific red and near infrared wavelengths of light to induce a therapeutic effect within the body. Laser therapy has been used in Europe since the 1970s and was cleared by the United States FDA in 2002. Class IV laser therapy is proven to bio stimulate tissue repair and healing capabilities. Summus Medical Laser has become the preferred choice for thousands of practitioners worldwide.
CELLULAR EFFECTS
CELLULAR EFFECTS
This treatment works through photobiomodulation (PBM), a process where photons are absorbed by several different components of our tissues, called chromophores. A sufficient amount of light needs to reach the targeted tissue to get the best therapeutic result. By applying stimulation to the specific cell receptors inside our body, laser therapy can modify the effects of injured tissues.
650nmTargets Superficial receptors |
810nmTargets Mitochondria |
915nmTargets Hemoglobin |
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650nmTargets Superficial receptors |
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810nmTargets Mitochondria |
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915nmTargets Hemoglobin |
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THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS
THERAPEUTIC EFFECTS
During laser therapy, the infrared laser light interacts with tissues at the cellular level and metabolic activity increases within the cell, improving the transport of nutrients across the cell membrane. This initiates the increased production of cellular energy (ATP) that leads to a cascade of beneficial effects, increasing cellular function and health.
TREATMENT MAY HELP
- Enhance Tissue Healing
- Reduce Inflammation
- Increase Circulation
- Reduce Pain
WHY IS POWER IMPORTANT?
Wavelengths determine a therapeutic laser’s depth of penetration and power determines the dosage delivered to that depth in tissues. Power (Watts) is the rate of energy delivery and energy is measured in Joules (1 Watt = 1 Joule per second). Higher power at the surface will deliver more energy to the desired length.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LASER PULSING
Studies show that pulse frequencies elicit different physiological responses and that each tissue type (muscle, connective tissue etc.) respond better to different pulse frequencies. Additionally, lasers operating in a super pulse mode deliver bursts of high peak power for a short period of time. Dr. Pinto’s Summus Medical Laser protocols use continuous wave and various pulse frequencies in combination with three therapeutic wavelengths to optimize clinical outcomes.
CONSIDERATIONS
Aside from a mild, soothing warmth, there is little to no sensation during treatment. Results may occur after the very first session – each treatment is cumulative so additional treatments to the site may be beneficial.
Dr. Pinto has programmed custom settings in order to deliver appropriate light therapy doses to babies, toddlers and parents.