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WHAT IS LASER THERAPY?

Lasers channel light energy into the cells, which use the energy of the light for various cellular mechanisms, similar to the way that plant's leaves transform the energy of the sun through the process of photosynthesis. 

Laser therapy is essentially light therapy, and is non-invasive, non-toxic and bio-friendly.

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Let's explore how this works.......

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A laser produces a concentrated and focused beam of photons. This light energy is absorbed into the cells of the body and is used by the cells for various biochemical reactions. This process is called photobiomodulation. The mitochondrion in the cells are stimulated to produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate) which  enables cells to regenerate more quickly, thus improving the rate at which the tissues can heal. ATP  provides energy to drive and support many processes in living cells. Laser also stimulates the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO).

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ATP, ROS and NO cause a cascade of effects involving the biochemical pathways that govern  inflammation, pain, and healing.

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The physiological effects of laser include:

  • accelerated cell division therefore accelerated tissue healing

  • modulation of immune processes within the tissues

  • production of new connective tissue (via the stimulation of fibroblasts) 

  • enhanced synthesis of ATP

  • enhanced healing of tendons, cartilage and bones

  • production of new blood vessels

  • production of new collagen fibres

  • healing of damaged nerves

  • improved circulation (blood flow to the area) therefore improved oxygen supply to healing tissues

  • decreased inflammation

  • decreased swelling

  • slowed nerve conduction and inhibited peripheral nociception (the mechanisms that produce pain are inhibited and result in pain relief

 

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What is laser used for?

Medical treatment

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  • pain relief of chronic and acute musculoskeletal pain

  • pain relief of nerve-related pain such as radiculopathy, neuropathy and neuritis

  • healing nerve injuries

  • healing superficial wounds to the skin, ulcers, acne, cold sores and dermatitis

  • enhanced healing of muscle, tendon, ligament, cartilage and bone injuries (including, but not limited to, ankle sprains, meniscus injuries, Achilles tendon injuries, tendinopathies, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, frozen shoulder, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff tears)

  • management of joint pain and osteoarthritis

  • reduction of inflammation and oedema (soft tissue swelling)

  • modulation of degenerative tissue changes

  • aiding post-surgical recovery

  • promoting lymph drainage and circulation (especially useful after mastectomies and other surgical procedures)

  • stimulation of acupuncture points

  • alleviation of nipple pain and breast engorgement in breast feeding mothers

  • the treatment of sinusitis, gum problems and temporo-mandibular joint problems

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Aesthetic treatment

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  • wrinkles

  • dehydrated skin

  • skin rejuvenation

  • rosacea

  • stretch marks

  • scars

  • lymphatic stasis

  • oedematous cellulite

  • fibrous cellulite

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IF YOU WANT THIS TREATMENT
WHAT ARE YOUR OPTIONS? 

You are welcome to book a comprehensive  physiotherapy session (one hour) which will include various treatment techniques. There is no extra charge for laser as part of your physiotherapy appointment.

You are also welcome to book an appointment for laser therapy. The duration of the appointment will vary depending on the area being treated, and is usually between 10 and 20 minutes. The rate for a laser session is the Discovery rate and the treatment for medical conditions can be claimed from your medical aid provider.

If you have a medical condition that has not yet been assessed, it is generally advised for you to have an initial physiotherapy assessment to determine the most appropriate management plan. 

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