What is Cold Laser Therapy and How Does it Work?

LASER stands for Light Amplification via Stimulated Emission of Radiation. Laser light consists of an energy source, laser material which absorbs energy and emits it as light. And finally, there is a cavity which channels the light into a beam. Low Level Laser (or Cold Laser) can penetrate skin and tissue without heating it.

Laser light wavelength is measured in nanometers (nm) and the output, or strength of the laser light, is measured in milliwatts (mW). Although both LED and Laser will have similar wavelengths, Laser is a better option for targeting specific areas that need deeper penetration. Also, Laser light can be super pulsed which makes it a safer option. Laser light treatment equipment is rated in five “classes” of output ranging from less than 1 mW to more than 500 mW. The “Cold” Laser that I use in treatments is a Class 3 Laser and does not generate heat or burn the skin. Its light wavelength range is 650 nm to 808 nm which research indicates is ideal for penetration and effectiveness. Its output range is 5mW to 150 mW. It uses specific wavelengths of light that are absorbed by a “photo acceptor,” a cytochrome found in the mitochondria of a cell.

When we have an injury, the body responds by sending blood cells to the area; what we perceive as inflammation or swelling. Inflammation removes damaged tissues and brings in substances the body needs to heal. Although inflammation is needed for healing, too much can cause damage to the surrounding tissue.

Laser Therapy moves the tissues out of the inflammation stage and into the repair stage. This leads to faster healing and decreased pain. Laser Therapy also stimulates new blood vessel formation, fibroblast activity, and bone and collagen production. Laser Therapy is 90% efficient at delivering energy into tissue.

Another benefit of using Cold Laser Therapy is the ability to target specific areas of the body, including acupressure points and meridians. This is helpful for a multitude of issues.

Cold Laser Therapy is most effective when administered frequently for short periods of time. Treatments for dogs can be integrated with massage and other body work, and treatments for people can be integrated with Reiki and/or Cranial Sacral sessions. Treatments cost between $15 and $25 but package pricing is available for multiple treatments. It is important to me that treatments are kept as affordable as possible because I want people to make the commitment to multiple treatments for best results.