Low-Level Laser Therapy - Use & Benefits in Physiotherapy

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT), also known as low intensity laser therapy (LILT), is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes low power lasers to stimulate cellular function and promote healing. It is an emerging field that is gaining popularity as an alternative treatment for various medical conditions, including pain management.

Class 3b lasers, which are low intensity lasers, are commonly used in LLLT. These lasers have a power output of less than 500 milliwatts, making them safe for use on humans. They emit non-ionizing radiation, which means they do not cause tissue damage or harm to cells.

The mechanism of action of LLLT is that of photobiomodulation; the process by which light sensitive receptors in human tissue can absorb light energy of specific wavelengths to trigger cell function. It is similar to the process by which vitamin D is synthesized from exposure to sunlight; or to photosynthesis in the plant world. Essentially, it works by increasing cellular metabolism, improving blood flow, and reducing inflammation.

Within a physiotherapy or other health care practice, it is used for:

Reduction of inflammation: LLLT has anti-inflammatory effects by reducing the levels of inflammatory mediators like prostaglandins and cytokines.
Pain management: LLLT can modulate pain perception by reducing the release of pain-inducing substances and inhibiting the transmission of pain signals.
Tissue regeneration: LLLT promotes the proliferation and migration of cells involved in tissue repair, such as fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and keratinocytes. This can accelerate the healing of wounds, tendons, and other musculoskeletal tissues.
Nerve regeneration: LLLT has been used to promote the regeneration of damaged peripheral nerves, which can be beneficial in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome and neuropathic pain.
Lymphedema Management: LLLT can help reduce the volume and pain associated with lymphedema, a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid in the limbs.
Wound Healing: LLLT has been shown to enhance the healing of various types of wounds, including diabetic foot ulcers and post-surgical incisions

Common conditions treated with Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)

Musculoskeletal Pain:

Osteoarthritis of the knee, hip, and ankle
Rheumatoid arthritis
Shoulder impingement syndromes
Hip or shoulder bursitis
Low back pain and disc degeneration
Disc herniation and sciatica
Tendinitis (e.g., tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis)
Bursitis
Neck pain

Tissue Repair and Wound Healing:

Muscle strains and ligament sprains
Wound management and scar tissue healing
Diabetic neuropathy and foot ulcers

Inflammation and Edema Reduction:

Lymphedema
Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders

What to expect from a Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) session?

1. Assessment and Diagnosis:

The physiotherapist will first assess the patient’s condition and make a diagnosis to determine if LLLT is an appropriate treatment.
They will evaluate the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and any relevant imaging or test results.

2. Treatment Planning:

The physiotherapist will select the appropriate laser wavelength, power output, and treatment duration based on the patient’s condition and the desired therapeutic effects.
Wavelengths between 660 nm and 905 nm are typically used as they can effectively penetrate the skin and soft/hard tissues.

3. Treatment Procedure:

The physiotherapist will position the laser device over the affected area and apply the laser light directly to the skin.
The laser light is non-invasive and does not create any heat, sound, or vibration during the treatment.
The treatment session typically lasts between 5-20 minutes, depending on the condition being treated.

4. Monitoring and Adjustments:

The physiotherapist will monitor the patient’s response to the LLLT treatment and make any necessary adjustments to the parameters.
They may also combine LLLT with other physiotherapy modalities, such as exercise, manual therapy, or electrical stimulation, to achieve the best possible outcomes.

5. Contraindications and Safety:

The physiotherapist will ensure that there are no contraindications to LLLT, such as over the eyes, active cancer sites, or in pregnant patients.
Appropriate safety measures, such as eye protection, will be taken during the treatment.

How many treatments do I need?

Low-level light therapy (LLLT) yields prompt results, with treatment durations varying based on the nature of the condition. For acute ailments, typically five to six sessions are sufficient, while chronic illnesses like lumbar spine pain may necessitate eight to twelve treatments.

It’s important to note that these figures represent general treatment guidelines. As each patient possesses unique circumstances, including the severity of their condition, overall health, and the quality of equipment employed, actual healing timelines can vary.

Individuals managing lifelong health concerns may benefit from periodic follow-up sessions, often scheduled monthly. Health professionals have integrated LLLT into their practices for over three decades, with no reported adverse effects. Occasionally, some patients may experience temporary exacerbation of old injuries or heightened discomfort post-treatment, indicative of the body’s heightened natural healing response.

In conclusion, LLLT treatment procedure is a non-invasive, painless, and safe therapy that physiotherapists can use to effectively manage a variety of musculoskeletal conditions by reducing pain, inflammation, and promoting tissue repair.

At Being Physio, we empower you with essential knowledge and resources to preserve your mobility, attain lasting improvements, and enjoy a life of high quality.

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In the spirit of reconciliation Being Physio acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.