What is Laser Therapy?
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What is Laser Therapy?
Laser stands for “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation”. Light from a laser is of one color (monochromatic), parallel (collimated) and have the same frequency (are coherent). When this type of light makes contact with our bodies it produces a cascade of cellular reactions which are believed to improve tissue healing, relieve pain and act as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Laser therapy should not be painful and it does not emit any heat. Special glasses should be worn by both the therapist and the patient as eye contact with laser can be damaging. Laser should also be performed in an enclosed room to avoid laser contact with other individuals.
In general laser is a very safe treatment but there are some risks. These should be discussed with your physiotherapist prior to treatment.
Please note
This article is not intended to be a literature review. While some literature may be cited in some cases, this article should not be used as scientific-evidence of a treatment or service. Please contact your physiotherapist or other appropriate health care provider to better understand the scientific literature supporting or refuting the use of a particular treatment.