Enlightening Low Level Laser Therapy: An Accelerated Approach to Healing
Contributed by Samantha Dowd
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is changing the game in pain management and healing, offering a non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments. Despite its long-standing history, it's only recently gained widespread recognition for its effectiveness and minimal side effects. However, misconceptions about LLLT, particularly in comparison to LED therapy, still persist. This therapy can address a wide range of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, sciatica, whiplash, chronic low back pain, and pre and post-operative surgery. Despite its growing popularity elsewhere, Alaska has been slower to adopt LLLT. This is an article to enlighten you on the science, benefits, and challenges of this innovative therapy that is being used all around the world.
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) uses specific wavelengths of light to create energy. Specific light provided by a laser has been scientifically proven to create energy much light photosynthesis in plants. It increases the energy necessary for injured cells to heal and regenerate as well as helping the cells communicate more effectively with one another. Increase energy and communication translates to up to a 30% faster healing time. With technological advancements and accumulating evidence, LLLT has gained traction in recent years.
One common misconception is the confusion between LED therapy and LLLT. Unlike LED therapy's scattered wavelengths of light, LLLT's specific wavelengths have been highly researched to target deeper tissues in need of repair and create energy within the cell. While there are benefits to LED, they are also what is used as the placebo for LLLT’s double blind studies.
LLLT has shown effectiveness in treating various conditions with a series of treatments:
• Plantar Fasciitis: Studies have shown that LLLT can significantly reduce pain and improve function in individuals with plantar fasciitis. Research published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research demonstrated a notable improvement in foot function and reduced pain levels following LLLT treatment.
• Sciatica: For individuals suffering from sciatic pain, LLLT offers relief by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair. A study published in Pain Medicine found that LLLT provided significant pain reduction and improved mobility in patients with sciatica, highlighting its efficacy in managing this challenging condition.
• Whiplash: Whiplash injuries, often resulting from car accidents, can cause neck pain and stiffness. LLLT has been shown to alleviate these symptoms by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue healing. Research published in the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine reported significant pain reduction and improved neck mobility following LLLT treatment for whiplash-associated disorders.
• Pre and Post-Operative Surgery: LLLT plays a crucial role in enhancing the surgical experience by reducing pain and accelerating healing. Studies have shown that LLLT can minimize post-operative pain and swelling by first preparing the tissue before and after surgery, leading to faster recovery times and improved patient outcomes.
In the landscape of modern medicine, Low Level Laser Therapy emerges as a beacon of hope, offering a non-invasive avenue for healing across various conditions. Despite its longstanding scientific foundation, misconceptions surrounding its differentiation from LED light therapy persist. Nevertheless, as evidence continues to mount in support of its efficacy and as awareness spreads, the potential of LLLT to revolutionize healthcare remains undeniable. While Alaska may presently trail behind in LLLT adoption, ongoing education and advocacy efforts promise to pave the way for its integration into the state's healthcare landscape, ultimately empowering individuals with effective and minimally invasive treatment options for an array of conditions and injuries and pain management.