WHAT IS RED LIGHT LASER THERAPY?

Low-level red light lasers are used to reduce pain, inflammation, and edema, promote wounds, deeper tissues, and nerve healing, and prevent tissue damage has been known for almost forty years since the invention of lasers. Near-Infrared (NIR) therapy has been cleared by the FDA for improving local circulation and relieving pain and inflammation. Tingling and numbness are common complaints that occur in a large number of medical situations, including diabetic, statin, and chemotherapy-related peripheral neuropathy. These symptoms can also be seen in patients after sports injuries, car accidents, or overuse injuries.

Laser Therapy is available in our two locations: Debary, FL and New Smyrna Beach, FL.

While most devices deliver red light between 630-700nm, you will see ranges from almost orange (600nm) all the way to 800-900nm, which is in the near-infrared range. The bulk of clinical literature suggests that light in the mid-600nm range and low to mid-800nm range is most effective. That is because these wavelengths have the greatest effect on the cellular respiration process. At certain wavelengths, there are several peaks in the cytochrome c oxidase (CCO) absorption of photons. The highest of these peaks are in the ranges of 660-670nm and 830-850nm. These wavelengths have been proven to produce substantial improvements in cellular function. Other wavelengths such as 700nm or 720nm have almost no biological effects.

HOW DOES LASER THERAPY WORK?

Laser therapy works by converting light energy into biochemical energy. While this might sound a bit confusing at first, think of it as the same way that plants absorb sunlight and convert it into usable energy to grow. With laser therapy, the body converts the wavelengths delivered by the laser into energy that it can use to heal damaged tissue.

The laser is placed either directly on or slightly above the skin at the site of the injury so that it can penetrate the tissue below. This is typically performed while a patient is sitting on the treatment table or while they are lying down in a relaxed position. The laser is then gently swept across the skin, directing the laser’s energy into the injured or inflamed area. While this process is pain-free, it is common to experience a soothing, warming sensation in the treated area.

Laser therapy typically lasts anywhere from three to ten minutes, depending on the size of the area being treated. During the treatment, the light energy from the laser stimulates the cells within the tissue itself. Specifically, the wavelengths stimulate:

• The Mitochondria: The “powerhouse of the cell” you heard all about in eighth-grade biology. The mitochondria trigger cellular reproduction and growth, meaning that the injured area experiences expedited cellular growth once stimulated.
• The Fibroblast: The light energy provided by lasers stimulates the development of fibroblast, the cells in connective tissue that produce collagen and other fibers needed to heal damaged tissue. This leads to faster wound healing and a reduction in recovery time.
• Metabolic Activity: Laser treatment encourages a rush of oxygen-rich blood to the affected area, helping the body to increase immune response and the enzyme count necessary to expedite the healing process.

Together, these reactions catalyze healing in the body, alleviating pain and inflammation and lessening recovery time. Other notable side effects of laser treatment include:

• Reduced fibrous tissue
• Anti-inflammatory reaction
• Improved joint mobility
• Improved blood circulation
• Increased nerve function – limiting tingling and numbness felt at the site of the injury

Laser Therapy is available in our two locations: Debary, FL and New Smyrna Beach, FL.

Why is Nitric Oxide Important?

One of the most amazing things about light therapy is stimulating nitric oxide is said to stimulate the release of “the miracle molecule”, often referred to as the “mystical gas”.

The infrared light energy releases nitric oxide from hemoglobin and endothelial cells.  Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule that relaxes smooth muscle cells found in the arteries, veins, and lymph vessels. When these muscles relax, the vessels dilate, thus allowing increased circulation.

Nitric oxide has been found to be essential in many bodily systems (such as the immune system and the nervous system, including the brain) and in many chronic conditions and diseases (such as chronic inflammation, erectile dysfunction, and cancer). A reduction in nitric oxide production can lessen blood flow to the brain, as well as possibly increase inflammation and oxidative stress, and thus may contribute to cognitive problems. In addition, nitric oxide in the endothelium can modulate a protein that’s a precursor to amyloid (found in plaques that are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s.

Certain immune cells generate nitric oxide, which is important as a defense molecule against bacteria and other pathogens. It also regulates the activity, growth, and death of many immune and inflammatory cell types. Nitric oxide can cause cancer cells to destroy themselves (apoptosis). But it can also promote the growth of blood vessels (angiogenesis), which cancer needs in order to grow.

READY TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT LASER THERAPY?

If you’re ready to get your health back and get back to the things you love doing everyday then schedule a consultation to see how we can help. Our doctors are trained to help patients of all ages and conditions.

Ultimate Medical Clinic and Chiropractic offers state-of-the-art chiropractic and wellness treatments to patients who wish to enhance themselves from the inside out. We are proud to provide our services to patients throughout Debary, Deltona, Orange City, New Smyrna Beach, and the surrounding communities. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with one of our expert team members.