Low Level Laser Therapy (Laser Acupuncture)
What is Laser Acupuncture?
Laser acupuncture is one of the newest holistic treatments which combines state of the art technology with ancient healing methods. Essentially, a laser is used to stimulate acupuncture points using the same rules of point selection as needle acupuncture. Laser acupuncture may be used on its own or in combination with needles over a course of treatment.
How does it work?
Low Level Laser (Light) Therapy uses red and infrared light for the relief of pain, to accelerate healing and reduce inflammation. When the light source is placed against the skin, the photons penetrate several centimetres and get absorbed by the mitochondria, the energy producing part of a cell. This promotes tissue repair and accelerates wound and tissue healing. This Low Level Laser Therapy is non-invasive, non toxic and often provides a treatment alternative for patients that have not responded to other therapies or may be uncomfortable with needles. Laser Acupuncture has been successfully used to treat a broad range of medical conditions, including musculoskeletal problems, arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, sports injuries, post-surgical wounds, diabetic ulcers, headaches and dermatological conditions.
Why are Low Level Laser treatments so effective?
LLLT gives a jump-start to the body’s natural healing process. Unlike many pharmacological treatments that mask pain or only address the symptoms of disease, Low Level Laser Therapy treats the underlying condition to promote and speed up healing time. Treatments are often highly effective and the benefits are long lasting. Treatments can last between 15 minutes to an 1 hour depending on the condition and area being treated and can be added to any acupuncture session. The number of treatments can vary depending on the individual problem as every patient and condition responds to Laser Therapy differently.
The Advantages of Low Level Laser Therapy
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Highly effective
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Virtually no side-effects
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Non-invasive
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Non-toxic
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Easily applied
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Cost effective
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More affordable than surgery or other therapies
Short Term Effects
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Reduction in pain
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Production and release of beta-endorphins
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Improvement in localized blood flow
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Small localized increase in temperature
Long Term Or Cumulative Effects
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Increase in cellular energy
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ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production is increased resulting in improved cellular metabolism (more energy)
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Faster healing of damaged tissue
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Increased protein and DNA production results in higher cell replication rates
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Stimulation of macrophages, fibroblasts and other cells results in a quicker healing time
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Regulates cell membrane potential, essential in Na, Cl and K ion transfer (electrolyte balance)
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Better nerve conduction
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Neurotransmission is facilitated due to elevated levels of serotonin and aceytylecholine
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Reduction in scar tissue
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Increase in collagen synthesis results in healing with normal muscle-tendon matrix
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More blood flow to the damaged area
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Angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels) brings more blood to the damaged area
Other Effects
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Improved resistance to infection
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The immune response is stimulated
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Reduction in swellingLymphatic drainage is improved
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The body’s natural healing processes are enhanced