What is Low Level Laser Therapy?

Low Level Laser Therapy, commonly known as LLLT, is a form of phototherapy which involves the application of athermal, monochromatic, polarised and coherent non-ionising radiation to injuries and lesions to stimulate healing.

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LLLT is used to increase the speed, quality and tensile strength of tissue repair, resolve inflammation, and give pain relief. The technical term often used to describe this form of therapy is 'photobiomodulation'.

How does it work?

The effects of LLLT are photochemical, not thermal. Photons enter the tissue and are absorbed in the mitochondria and at the cell membrane. The photonic energy is converted to chemical energy within the cell, in the form of ATP.

Cell membrane permeability alters, then physiological changes occur. These physiological changes affect macrophages, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, mast cells, bradykinin and nerve conduction rates.

Clinical applications.

There are many potential clinical uses for LLLT in almost every aspect of modern human and veterinary medicine, as well as applications in dentistry, physical therapies and aesthetics.

The portability and diversity of battery and mains-powered diode laser systems allows treatment to be carried out in clinical, hospital, and field locations.

Some common applications for LLLT are:

• Wound Management
• Soft Tissue Injuries
• Inflammation
• Joint Conditions
• Arthritis
• Chronic Pain
• Dermatological Conditions
• Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy
• Acupuncture

Reported benefits.

• Rapid cell growth.  Laser accelerates cellular reproduction and growth.
• Faster wound healing.  Laser stimulates fibroblast development in damaged tissue. The reduction in recovery time is an important consideration.
• Increases metabolic activity.  Higher outputs of specific enzymes, greater oxygen and food particle loads on blood cells, more effective immune responses are induced by laser light.
• Reduces fibrous tissue formation.  Laser reduces the formation of scar tissue following tissue damage from cuts, scratches, burns, or following surgery.
• Anti-inflammatory action.  Laser reduces swelling caused by bruising or inflammation of joints to give improved joint mobility.
• Increases vascular activity.  Laser stimulates lymph and blood circulation, to allow the affected tissue to have the best possible circulation.
• Stimulates nerve function.  Slow recovery of nerve function in damaged tissue can result in "dead" limbs or numb areas. Laser will speed the process of nerve cell reconnection to bring the numb areas back to life. Laser also increases the amplitude of action potentials to optimise muscle action.

For a more in-depth discussion of low level laser therapy, please click here.

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