Laser therapy is the therapeutic application of coherent, monochromatic light at low intensities. This therapy is applied using either a low intensity laser diode (250 milliwatts or less) or an array of high intensity super luminous diodes (providing total optical power in the 1000-2000 milliwatt range).
The light source is placed in contact with the skin allowing the photon energy to penetrate tissue, where it interacts with various intracellular biomolecules resulting in the restoration of normal cell morphology and function. In short, laser therapy adds energy to living systems and enhances the body’s natural healing processes. The characteristic of adding energy is what makes laser therapy different from nearly all other therapeutic modalities, most of which simply strive to “re-arrange” the energy (or lack of energy, which is often the problem!) within the body.
While laser therapy is the most common term used to describe this modality, other terms in the literature/marketplace include “low level laser therapy” (LLLT), “low intensity laser therapy” (LILT), “laser photobiostimulation”, “low power laser therapy”, and the colloquial term “cold laser therapy” are a few of the other terms which have been used.
Four widely accepted effects noted in the literature are:
1. Bio-stimulation and tissue regeneration
2. Reduction of inflammation
3. Analgesia (pain relief)
4. Antibacterial and antiviral effects
Therapeutic applications of laser therapy which have shown promising results based on research studies include:
Acne • Allergic Purpura • Alopecia Areata • Arteriosclerosis / Atherosclerosis • Arthritis • Asthma • Back Pain • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome • Cerebral Palsy • Dental Applications • Diabetes • Fibromyalgia • Headaches/Migraine • Hearing Disorders • Herpes • Hypertension • Hyperlipidemia • Lymphedema • Maxillofacial Disorders • Meniere’ s Disease • Nerve Regeneration • Neuralgia Neuropathy • Pain (Musculoskeletal, Myofascial, Nerve) • Pancreatobiliary Disease • Peyronie’s Disease • Prostatitis • Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy • Respiratory Disorders (Asthma, Bronchitis, Pleurisy, Pneumonia, Sinusitis, Tuberculosis) • Scars • Skin Disorders • Sports Injuries • Tendonitis • Tinnitus • Wound Healing
To view research on any of the above topics and more, check out the Laser Research Library and more on our Research page.
Laser therapy is widely practiced throughout Europe and Asia. Over 4,000 studies and articles have been published. No permanent adverse reaction has been documented in more than 40 years of clinical and research use.
Light in its various forms has been used for healing from the time of the ancient Egyptian and Greek civilizations. With recent advances in the engineering of devices and the development of appropriate protocols for effective therapeutic application, dramatic benefits and treatment of many complex medical conditions are achievable.
Our four Meditech-BioFlex Professional Laser Systems combine numerous sophisticated engineering advances with the capacity to control all parameters such as frequency, duty cycle, energy density, duration, etc. An infinitive range of protocols can then be delivered to tissue in standard fashion or a customized basis. The BioFlex Professional Laser System developed by Meditech, received FDA clearance on February 11, 2003. It is a Class II medical device (requires prescription from a licensed health care provider) and is listed as a non-significant risk device (no significant long or short-term side effects).
On September 24, 2005, LILT was endorsed by the American Academy of Pain Management.
Advantages of Low Intensity Laser Therapy
Non-invasive
Non-toxic
Easily applied
Highly effective
Cure rate > 95%
No known negative side effects
Physiological effects of low intentisty laser therapy
Short Term Effects
Production and release of beta-endorphins (these are morphine like substances produced by various cells in the body that inhibit the sensation of pain)
Cortisol production is increased (cortisol is the precursor of cortisone). This enables the body to combat the stress associated with trauma or the disease process
The short-term effect is significant in 5-10% of cases during or after the conclusion of the initial treatment, but is not as important as the long term or cumulative effect
Long Term Or Cumulative Effect
ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production is increased resulting in improved cellular metabolism
DNA (deoxyribonucleicacid) production; protein building block of tissue is substantially increased
Neurotransmission is facilitated due to elevated levels of serotonin and aceytylecholine
Mitochondrial activity is stimulated resulting in cell replication etc. (i.e. replacement, regeneration and repair of abnormal cells)
Modulation of macrophages, fibroblasts and other cells
Angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels)
Regulates cell membrane potential, essential in Na, Cl and K ion transfer (electrolyte balance)
Cytokines and other chemicals enhancing cellular communications are released
Other Effects
The immune response is stimulated
Lymphatic drainage is improved
The histamine response is positively altered
Production of growth hormone is increased
The body’s natural healing processes are enhanced
The beneficial physiological changes noted above are the result of tissue regeneration and cellular stimulation. Many other positive activities are modulated including the humoral and cerebral spinal fluid effects which are highly significant and are currently under investigation in research laboratories to accurately delineate the scientific aspects of this process.
FAQs
1. What is a laser?
The word laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. A laser emits electron particles known as photons, which exhibit the characteristics described below:
- Monochromaticity: In laser light, all electromagnetic waves have the same wavelength and therefore, the same color.
- Coherence: All the photons in laser light oscillate in the same phase.
- Directionality: Laser emission is highly directional and can be collimated.
- Intensity: The primary advantage of lasers is the high intensity directed at a small area (i.e. the focus of the pathology).
2. What is Low Intensity Laser Therapy?
Low Intensity Laser Therapy (LILT) is the use of monochromatic light emission from a low intensity laser diode (250 mW or less) or an array of high intensity superluminous diodes (providing total optical power in the 10 to 2000 mW range) to treat musculoskeletal injuries, chronic and degenerative conditions and to heal wounds. The light source is placed in contact with the damaged tissue allowing the photon energy to penetrate to various levels. Interaction with certain intracellular micromolecules occurs resulting in the restoration of normal cell morphology, function and the enhancement of the body’s natural healing processes.
3. How long does a treatment take?
Treatments are typically 15 minutes to one hour in duration for any particular condition or patient.
4. How many treatments are needed?
The number of treatments will vary with regard to the individual presenting problem. Just as every medical condition varies, so will the individual response to therapy. In a recent clinical report summarizing over 1000 patients treated with the BioFlex Professional LILT system at time of discharge, patients had averaged slightly less than ten treatments to resolve their condition completely.
5. What are the side effects associated with BioFlex?
Unlike many pharmaceutical options, BioFlex is non-toxic; unlike surgical procedures, it is non-traumatic and most important, it is non-invasive.
6. What about the negative effects of radiation?
Low Intensity Laser Therapy (LILT) produces radiation as photon energy in the visible and near infra-red regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Worldwide research conducted over the past thirty years indicates that normally functioning cells are not adversely affected by this type of irradiation. Unlike other forms of radiation, i.e. x-ray, etc., this process is beneficial rather than harmful to tissue.
7. Where is BioFlex in use today?
Across Canada, the United States, Europe, South America and Asia, BioFlex is being used by an increasing number of physicians, chiropractors and physiotherapists. In the twelve years that the therapy has been available at Meditech, more than 100,000 patients have received successful treatment with the BioFlex and its predecessor systems.
The technology is currently being utilized in thirty countries. The Toronto Raptors and The Miami Heat of the NBA, The Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Blue Jays, have also used BioFlex for their injured players with excellent results. In addition, many athletes from the world of golf, hockey, tennis and increasingly ballerinas, figure skaters, gymnasts and other performers in artistic sports are experiencing the positive effects of this therapy.
8. Where has clinical research on BioFlex been conducted?
Ongoing clinical research of various disease entities is conducted onsite at Meditech’s two rehabilitation centres. Several controlled studies have been performed since 1996 using the BioFlex Professional System; two of these involved experimental models of Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) and Rheumatoid Arthritis. The outcomes of both studies showed BioFlex producing significant and positive results.
Meditech has also embarked on an extensive program of beta testing of the BioFlex user protocols. In January, 1997, two BioFlex Professional Systems were placed in beta sites, one at the University of Toronto in a teaching hospital and one at the University of Ulster. Additional research is being conducted in private clinics. Results from all centres have indicated that the benefits derived from the BioFlex Systems are both positive and dramatic.
9. Thermal versus Low Intensity Laser Therapy
High power or thermal lasers can produce a substantial amount of heat. This destructive potential makes high power laser a key component in industrial applications such as cutting and welding. Thermal laser combines power and precision and therefore has many beneficial uses in surgical and ablative procedures.
Unlike thermal lasers, the low intensity laser beam is ‘soft power’, athermal and can stimulate cellular regeneration and natural healing. Red and infra-red lasers with power outputs in the range of 10 to 250 mW belong in this category, in addition to superluminous diodes up to the 2000mW level.
Low intensity laser energy stimulates cellular function at many levels including metabolism; in essence it promotes the initiation of multiple physiological and beneficial effects in the repair and function of human cells. LILT is widely used in the medical and cosmetic fields, principally because it is non-destructive to the target tissue¬, while positively affecting many functions such as collagen formation, cellular metabolism, angiogenesis, lymphatic flow, etc.
10. Defining Diodes
There are two types of diodes used in low intensity laser therapy:
1) Superluminous Diodes (SLD) are designed for the treatment of a large surface area. Less powerful than laser diodes, these diodes are however applied safely in larger numbers over a wide area. These include red and near infrared diodes.
2) Laser Diodes (LD) have higher power output and narrow beams, making them ideal ‘laser probes’ for deeper penetration and for targeting localized, focal pathologies. Again, this includes both red and near infrared diodes.
11. What is BioFlex?
BioFlex is a highly sophisticated therapeutic device that combines the potential benefits of low intensity laser with superluminous diodes for the effective treatment of many medical disorders. Developed and engineered by Meditech International Incorporated, BioFlex represents the decade’s most significant technological advancement in low intensity laser therapy. Indeed, it is felt to be an important ‘new therapeutic dimension’.
12. What does Low Intensity Laser Therapy do?
By affecting and reversing the offending pathology at the cellular level, laser optimizes the restoration of normal cellular morphology and function; therefore, as logic dictates symptoms disappear. The beneficial effects of laser therapy are cumulative over the course of a series of treatments.
13. How does BioFlex compare with other conventional treatments?
For many years, rehabilitation therapies including ultrasound, interferential current and TENS have been used extensively throughout the world to treat pain and stimulate the healing process. Unlike the BioFlex however, the healing effects of these treatments have been disappointing as they appear to modulate symptoms only. In contrast, BioFlex is able to influence the pathology directly at the cellular level, resulting in therapeutic benefits that are more profound and indeed curative. Frequently alternative therapies act as counter-irritants, creating a transient increase in arterial circulation and the release of endorphins, providing temporary symptomatic relief only.
14. Are there any contraindications?
Yes. There are two basic contraindications. ¬Patients on photoactive medication and women in their first trimester of pregnancy. Appropriate clinical factors vary and must always be considered.
15. Are there any clinics using the BioFlex in my area?
Many of the clinics that are using the BioFlex are listed
here. You are encouraged to review the website to view clinics in your area.
Facts About Laser
A procedure used all over the world for the past 40 years has finally made its way to the United States. For about 10 years, the FDA has been regularly giving its approval to Low Intensity Laser devices. They have proven to be safe and effective when used for the treatment of pain.
The FDA has classified them as Class 2 Medical Devices, which means they present no significant risk. In fact, in the past 40 years worldwide, there has never been even one report of a significant long-term negative side effect.
Perhaps of even greater importance is the fact that, on September 24, 2005, the American Academy of Pain Management endorsed the use of Low Intensity Laser Therapy (LILT) as safe and effective for the treatment of pain.
Since LILT is curative, with the exception of Fibromyalgia (requiring follow-up care about every 2 to 3 months), patients do not need to return for care once treatment has been completed, in most instances.
You should not have to live with pain. The answer is as simple and safe as light.
Summary
Absorption as a result of photon bombardment of various bio-molecules in the cell results in the transformation of light into biochemical energy. This is a cumulative effect and requires sufficient stimulation in order to initiate response. Typically 10 to 12 treatments varying from 30 to 60 minutes in duration are required. The end result of low intensity laser irradiation is the restoration of normal function of the cell unit. Conversely, worldwide research to date has failed to record any negative effects from this process. It should be noted that normally functioning cells are not adversely affected by the irradiation. In contrast to other therapies, LILT is curative rather than simply modulating symptomatology. Continued research in the Meditech and other laboratories should further enhance the effectiveness of this existing technology. After treatment, the patient may have an exacerbation of pain for a varying period of time. If this occurs, utilize pain medication, and/or ice and let the therapist know prior to the next treatment.
The BioFlex Professional Laser System developed by Meditech, received FDA clearance on February 11, 2003. It is a Class II medical device (requires prescription from a licensed health care provider) and is listed as a non-significant risk device (no significant long or short-term side effects). On September 24, 2005, LILT was endorsed by the American Academy of Pain Management.
Medical Application
The potential for medical application of low intensity lasers exists in a great number of medical fields. The musculoskeletal problems most effectively treated are:
General
Repetitive stress injury
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Rotator cuff tear
Fibromyalgia
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy
Tempero-mandibular joint problems
Injuries
Ligament and tendon tears
Fractures with associated soft tissue injuries
Facet syndrome
Contusions
Inflammatory
Tendonitis
Myositis
Synovitis
Bursitis
Fascitis
Rheumatoid arthritis
Scar tissue formation
Degenerative
Osteoarthritis
Chondromalacia patella
Discogenic and vertebrogenic radiculopathy
Calcifications (e.g. bone spurs)
Other Applications
Wound healing
Dermal ulcers:
- Venous stasis
- Atherosclerotic
- Compression
- Diabetic
Patient Directives
1. Should you experience an increase in pain following any treatment, utilize ice on the area of involvement and take your usual pain medication as required. Notify clinic staff on your next visit that this has occurred. The existence of this phenomenon is due to excessive tissue response and protocols will be adjusted accordingly.
2. Usually treatments are scheduled three times per week, or more frequently in acute cases, at least initially. Subsequent treatments are scheduled in accordance with the patient’s status. In no case can a patient receive two treatments in any one-day unless twelve (12) hours have passed between treatments.
3. The majority of patients will not notice any changes with regard to their symptoms until sessions three or four. There are however exceptions to this rule. If at any time, you have questions regarding your progress, bring these to the attention of our staff.
