Cold laser therapy means the use of low intensity laser light to alleviate pain. This article will discuss this treatment option.
Cold laser, or low-level laser therapy, is a unique way to treat injuries and pains. It has recently been approved for medical use, and since then, it has been put to use by many doctors, surgeons, chiropractors, and physical therapists to treat the people suffering from various problems. Cold laser therapy is also used to treat back pain.
In this therapy, the laser light is directed on the area to be treated. In case of a back pain, the light is targeted on the point of distress for a duration of 30 seconds to a few minutes, based on the severity of the pain and the size of the area to be treated. The rays of the laser penetrate deep into the tissues and stimulate the cells of the body, increasing the energy levels of those cells. This increase, in turn, makes it possible for the cells to metabolize at a higher rate, thus speeding up the process of recovery and relieving pain.
However, before you opt for this treatment, it is important to get a complete diagnosis of your back condition from a doctor. During this diagnosis, the doctor will be able to pinpoint the reason for your condition. It will also help him decide whether or not your condition is treatable by laser therapy. If it is a severe case, a surgery may be required, but if it is a minor case, then cold laser therapy may be a viable option.
It has been observed that this treatment can provide pain relief soon after the first few sessions. Expert opinion on this treatment option is divided. Some experts believe that the relief provided by this treatment is temporary in nature. This means that the therapy cannot help those who face chronic problems. However, there are others who believe that if this therapy is undertaken for a fixed duration, it will definitely help to overcome the pain for good. Further, there is no proof to support either of the two statements.
Laser Acupuncture
Laser acupuncture is another way that can be used successfully to treat pain. This treatment option is very similar to normal acupuncture, but instead of the needles, laser beams are used on the acupoints. Hence, it is a good option for people who are considering acupuncture for pain relief, but are afraid of the needles.
Quite a few studies have been conducted by researchers to understand the usefulness of cold laser therapy. In one particular study, it was found that when exercise is combined with this treatment, the person suffering from pain feels more relief. Thus, we can say that in order increase the effects of laser therapy, one should exercise daily without fail.