What is Cold Laser Therapy?
The Apollo Cold Laser is a low power “soft,” “cool,” or “cold” laser that has longer wavelengths to promote rapid reduction of pain, accelerate healing time, and accelerate cellular growth and repair. Clinical applications of the Apollo Class IV Cold Laser (3000mW) have included acute and chronic pain reduction from many etiologies, inflammation reduction, enhanced tissue healing, and cell regeneration. Extraordinary results when applied to head, neck and shoulder regions of the body. The results have shown very rapid pain reduction and accelerated recovery times, far exceeding conventional methods. www.apollolaser.com
Applications for Cold Laser Therapy:
Connective Tissue Injuries / Disorders
- Sprains
- Strains
- Tendonitis
- Tendon ruptures
Joint Injuries / Disorders
- TMJ disorders
- Osteo Arthritis
- Dislocations
- Ligament injury
Muscle Injuries / Disorders
- Muscle bruises, contusions
- Muscle ruptures
- Muscle contractures
- Myositis
Neurological Injuries / Disorders
- Prolapsed disk
- Ruptured disk
- Herniated disk
- Crush injuries
- Neuritis
Skin Injuries / Conditions
- Surgical incisions
- Skin ulcers
- Burns
- Skin grafts
Cold Laser Is Ideal For (this is a partial list)
- Musculoskeletal Pain
- Stenosis
- Fractures
- Frozen shoulder
- IT Band syndrome
- Shin splints
- Restless Leg syndrome
- Leg cramps
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Migraine Headaches
- Back Pain & Spinal Conditions
- Myofascial Trigger Points
- Tennis Elbow / Golfer’s Elbow
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Bells’s Palsy
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Sports Injuries
- Sprains & Strains
- Tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Knee Pain
- Hamstring Tears
Arthritic Pain
How does cold laser therapy work?
Laser Therapy is the use of laser energy to create therapeutic effects. Research has shown that these effects include improved healing time, pain reduction, increased circulation and decreased swelling. When laser light is absorbed by living tissue, it triggers biological reactions in the cells. Chemical substances are produced, released and carried by blood and lymphatic flow to other parts of the system. In this way the effects of cold laser light many not be only local, but can also achieve wide systemic effects. Here are some of the specific physiological responses:
- Reduction in pain by causing production of natural pain killers, endorphins.
- Reduction in inflammation by suppressing inflammatory enzymes that creates swelling, redness, pain and heat.
- Enhanced lymphatic drainage, which increases circulation and speeds healing.
- Release of tight muscles that create chronic pain, joint problems, and decreased mobility.
- Faster bone repair by stimulating fibroblastic and osteoblastic proliferation
Is Cold Laser Therapy painful?
No. Low level lasers do not generate perceivable heat. Therefore, when the laser contacts the skin the patient experiences no warmth or burning as a result of the laser. Most people feel nothing at all while a few may feel a slight tingling during the treatment.
Is laser therapy safe?
The FDA has cleared laser therapy for the treatment of many pain syndromes. The investigation of a broad array of conditions has been completed and more are presently underway. The FDA considers laser therapy to be a safe and effective modality when used properly by a licensed practitioner.
Hot versus cold lasers:
There are two broad categories of lasers, HOT and COLD. Hot lasers are used for surgery, skin resurfacing, destroying tumors, and when the power is lowered it helps with pain relief. However, the heat that so effectively destroys tissue becomes a problem because the heat may slow down healing and cause burns. Hot lasers slow healing. As the heat increases, it initially produces tissue overheating, followed by tissue damage. The Apollo laser used by your clinician is a safe and powerful cold laser.
Is this just a temporary fix to my problem?
For most patients, the results have been sustainable. While some patients get immediate results, others require several treatments before there is a lasting effect. Since each person’s condition varies the doctor will determine after review of your case if laser treatments can benefit you.
Has Laser Therapy been proven?
There are more than 3000 scientific research studies on laser therapy. These investigations verify the clinical value and effectiveness of laser therapy
Can I be treated if I have a pacemaker or joint replacement?
People with a pacemaker or other types of implants or prosthesis can still safely receive cold laser treatments. It may be necessary to adjust treatment times and dosage for patients with artificial joints since implanted metal can reflect laser light in a way that increases absorption. We suggest you discuss this with your practitioner prior to treatment.
How will I know if the laser is working and How many treatments will I need?
Many people will see a reduction in symptoms immediately. Others will experience relief more gradually. A patient usually comes in for a treatment several times a week. The number of treatments can range anywhere from 2 to 20, depending on the nature and severity of the condition.
Why laser therapy instead of electrical stimulation or ultrasound?
Alternative modalities may relieve pain but do nothing to promote deep healing of damaged tissue. Electrical stimulation is often uncomfortable. It lacks the consistent pain reduction of laser and does not provide the same stimulation of tissue healing. Ultrasound is not as effective at blocking pain and does to provide the same stimulation of tissue healing. Studies show that ultrasound weakens tissue whereas cold laser causes tissue to strengthen.