K-Laser Class IV (Photobiomodulation)
Laser therapy is used to treat a variety of conditions such as the musculoskeletal pain of the head, neck, back, shoulders, arms, elbows, wrists, hands, fingers, legs, hips, knees, ankles, feet, etc., and neurological pain such that is found in, but not limited to headaches, diabetic neuropathy, radicular pain, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel, sciatica, etc.
Physiological Affects of Laser Therapy:
-Stabilization of cellular membrane of damaged cells
-Enhancement of ATP production and synthesis
-Decreased C-reactive protein neopterin
-Acceleration of leukocytic activity
-Enhanced lymphocyte response
-Enhanced lymphatic drainage
-Reduction of Interleukin 1 (IL-1)
-Increased prostaglandin synthesis
-Enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels
-Stimulation of vasodilation
-Temerature modulation
Decreased Pain and Nociception:
-Ion channel normalization (results in pain reduction)
-Increased in beta endorphins (decreased pain response)
-Increased nitric oxide production (helps oxygenation and synapse normalization)
-Decreased bradykinin production (chemical released by damaged cells that causes pain and inflammation)
-Blocked depolarization of c-fiber afferent nerves (blocks pain at the nerve)
-Normalization of resting action potentials of nerves (back to 70mv range)
-Increased release of acetylcholine (normalization of nerve function)
-Axonal sprouting and nerve cell regeneration
Tissue Healing:
-Increased leukocyte activity (acceleration of tissue repair and decrease of pain)
-Increased macrophage activity (increased phagocytosis)
-Increased neovascularization (new blood vessel growth and increased oxygenation)
-Keratinocyte proliferation (decreased skin healing time and early ephithelization)
-Increased tensile strength (helps prevent re-injury)