Laser Therapy

What is Class IV Laser Therapy?

Class IV Laser therapy is a painless, non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to provide pain relief and promote healing. This FDA cleared therapeutic treatment manages pain and inflammation while accelerating tissue regeneration. The laser energy increases circulation which reduces inflammation and swelling, causing a decrease in the level of pain the patient is experiencing. The increased circulation can also stimulate the body’s own natural ability to heal itself.

How does Class IV Laser Therapy Work?

With Class IV Laser Therapy, light energy passes through the skin and into the cell membrane, initiating a process called photobiomodulation (PBM). This process utilizes red and near-infrared light, which is absorbed by endogenous chromophores, triggering biological reactions through photochemical or photophysical events, leading to physiological changes. Similar to photosynthesis in plants, this therapeutic application of PBM improves the transport of water, oxygen, and nutrients across the cell membrane, stimulating the production of cellular energy (ATP). This provides multiple benefits such as increased cellular function and tissue repair. Therapy with the Class IV laser creates an optimal healing environment in which inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain are greatly reduced.

How is Class IV Laser Therapy Administered?

In my practice, I use the Platinum Class IV Laser by Summus. This Class IV Laser delivers the optimal mix of power, wavelengths, pulsing and expert protocols to ensure the best possible treatment outcome. More powerful than other medical lasers, the Class IV provides deeper tissue penetration, utilizes 4 different wavelengths and is adjustable from .05 to 24 watts in continuous wave and 28 watts peak. The ability to customize the power level allows the treatment of various conditions in different areas of the body and provides an optimal therapeutic effect.

What Does Laser Therapy Feel Like?

During treatment, I have patients sit or lie comfortably on my chiropractic table so the area to be treated can be easily reached. Other than feeling the wand against their skin and a mild warmth, most patients experience little or no sensation during treatment. Others may experience minor sensitivity and some patients have reported experiencing a slight tingling feeling during initial treatments. There are no side effects or downtime.

What Conditions Can Be Treated?

As my practice specializes in pain relief of lumbar and cervical spine conditions, I normally use therapy with the Class IV laser in conjunction with spinal decompression and chiropractic care. The Class IV Laser can also be used to effectively reduce and relieve the pain associated with various conditions including:

The Class IV laser can be used to treat acute and chronic conditions. The length and number of treatments required will vary depending on the specific ailment and the individual patient’s progress.

Does Laser Therapy Really Work?

Yes, it does! The therapy itself isn’t new. Although the laser was invented in 1960, the  biostimulant properties weren’t discovered until 1967. While it was previously used in Europe, the FDA initially cleared laser therapy for use in the US in 2002. The Class IV Laser was cleared the following year in 2003. There has been decades of research and more than 2,500 studies have been published worldwide documenting its effectiveness in pain relief. I have been providing therapy with the Class IV laser since 2007. During that time, I have seen significant improvement in pain relief among my patients and have even treated my own family members.

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