When it comes to understanding the difference between cold laser therapy and other kinds of laser therapy, you must first understand the premise of what laser therapy is and how it helps relieve pain. Simply put, laser therapy treats ailments by applying light to the target area. The red or near-infrared light is absorbed by the body and triggers a cellular-level reaction. This reaction boosts the metabolism of the cells, which in turn promotes regeneration and alleviates inflammation and pain in the surrounding area.
Cold laser therapy is a form of low-intensity laser therapy that uses low levels of light to stimulate healing. Other kinds of laser therapy, such as surgical and aesthetic treatments, heat the tissue during the treatment. With cold laser therapy, the light levels are so low that they do not cause your body tissue to heat up. This means that the procedure is painless and noninvasive. Additionally, no sound or vibration is produced, so the only thing you will feel is the laser device touching your skin. Treatments typically take a few minutes to complete, making this an excellent option for people who want to see results but are hesitant to commit to long treatment sessions or invasive methods.
Cold laser therapy helps reduce the pain associated with ailments, such as tennis elbow, tendonitis, ligament sprains, and muscle strains, as well as other generalized pain, such as neck, knee, back, or shoulder pain. This treatment is often paired with other forms of physical therapy or treatment modalities, such as acupuncture or chiropractic services.
If you’re experiencing chronic pain or are interested in how cold laser therapy can help you heal from a recent injury, reach out to us at Encompass Chiropractic Centers to schedule an appointment, so you can discuss treatment options and if this form of laser therapy is the right fit for you.