Low level laser therapy (LLLT), or "Cold Laser" traces its history back to the early 1960’s where researchers discovered that laser light could stimulate a response at the cellular level of tissues in the body, resulting in increased energy levels (ATP). This increase in energy enables the body’s cells to metabolize at a higher rate and speed its natural ability to heal. In short, the body converts the laser light into a form of energy that it can use, (biochemical energy), to repair itself and function at a higher level. This process is similar to how the human body uses the sun’s energy to manufacture Vitamin D.
Researchers have since experimented over the decades to find out which intensity and wavelength of light works best to promote healing in the body. Laser therapy has been successfully utilized in Europe, Asia, and Canada for over 40 years. In 2002, the FDA approved the use of low level laser therapy for use in the United States.
LLLT has almost endless applications because of its approach to healing. Its low intensity does not burn or cut tissue like high-powered surgical lasers and there are no known side effects in its over 40 year history of use. Laser therapy is effective in treating many conditions that are prominent today, such as chronic arthritis, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia, and sports injuries just to name a few.
Many pro athletes utilize laser therapy to reduce their healing times and get them back into the game with less chance of re-injury. Countless others are reaping the benefits of laser by eliminating their dependence on pain medications, keeping them away from surgery, decreasing or eliminating pain, and returning them to a healthier lifestyle.
