HIGH POWER LASER THERAPY
Improve healing and reduce pain
LASER means Light Amplification from Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Laser is created by specific process within the laser device to cause the controlled emission of radiation in form of light. Laser usually comes in one color and it comes in a thin beam.
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PRINCIPLE AND MECHANISM OF ACTION
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Class 4 laser therapy is a treatment method that uses high-power lasers for pain relief. The therapeutic effect depends on the laser’s effect on human tissue.​ Laser beams at specific wavelengths can induce biochemical reactions through the absorption of light energy. This stimulates ATP synthesis, enhance cell activity, reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.​ This stimulation can also cause cells to release various active substances such as oxygen free radicals, soluble mediators, and cytokines.​ These substances can regulate immunity, relieve pain and inflammation, enhance nerve repair and functional recovery.
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Class 4 laser therapy can be used to treat various types of pain, including neck pain, back pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, and other musculoskeletal conditions. It works by delivering energy deep into the tissues, stimulating the body’s natural healing process and reducing inflammation. This treatment modality is often used in conjunction with other therapies, such as physiotherapy and medication, to help manage pain and improve overall function.
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Class 4 laser therapy has been proven to be a safe and effective treatment option for inflammation. Using a high-powered laser to penetrate deep into the tissue, promoting cellular metabolism and reducing inflammation around joints. Inflammation may be associated with many diseases, such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, herniated disc and frozen shoulder.
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CLINICAL APPLICATION OF HIGH POWER LASER
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Physical Rehabilitation: Class 4 lasers are used in physiotherapy to improve recovery for musculoskeletal injuries and post-surgery rehabilitation. They’re also beneficial for patients with sports-related trauma, enhancing their recovery outcomes.
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Pain Clinics: Many pain management clinics utilize Class 4 laser therapy as a non-invasive and drug-free approach to alleviate chronic pain conditions, improving patients’ quality of life.
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Dermatology and Aesthetics: Class 4 lasers are used for dermatological treatments like scar reduction, acne therapy, and skin rejuvenation. They provide safe and effective cosmetic improvements for patients.
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Sports Medicine: Athletes benefit from Class 4 laser therapy for accelerated recovery from sports injuries, reduced inflammation, and improved performance.
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COMPARISON BETWEEN EFFICACY OF LLLT AND HLLT
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Both High-Level Laser Therapy (HLLT) and Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) utilize laser light to produce therapeutic effects. They both aim to stimulate cellular processes, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and aid in tissue repair and pain management.
However, there are great differences between them. Here’s a concise comparison:
Power Density: HLLT employs higher-power lasers (>500 mW) for deeper tissue penetration and potentially more significant therapeutic effects. LLLT uses lower-power lasers (<500 mW) for superficial conditions.
Treatment Parameters: HLLT requires shorter treatment durations due to higher power output. However, LLLT involves longer treatment durations with lower power densities. Parameters vary based on the specific condition.
Target Conditions: HLLT is suitable for deeper tissue penetration, such as musculoskeletal injuries and severe inflammatory conditions. LLLT is effective for superficial conditions, wound healing, and pain management closer to the skin surface.​
Clinical Evidence: Both therapies have demonstrated efficacy, but HLLT has more extensive and well-established evidence. It is more effective for musculoskeletal disorders, wound healing, and neuropathic pain with numerous clinical trials supporting it's effectiveness. LLLT, while promising, has a relatively limited research base.
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