Recently our clinic added the industry’s leading and most powerful Class IV Laser. We are excited to bring this service to our patients as a way to help alleviate pain, reduce inflammation and accelerate recovery times. Read on to learn more about the benefits, or contact us to find out if it’s right for you.
How does Laser Therapy work?
Laser Therapy uses specific wavelengths of light (red and near-infrared) to create therapeutic effects, including:
- Decreased pain levels
- Reduced inflammation
- Increased tissue proliferation and regeneration
- Accelerated soft tissue and bone repair
- Enhanced nerve regeneration and function
- Increased circulation and lymphatic flow
- Creation of new blood vessels
- Increased tissue tensile strength
- Optimized enzymatic responses
- Increased collagen production
What type of conditions can be treated with Class IV Laser Therapy?
- Auto and work-related injuries
- Back and neck pain
- Burns
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Chondromalacia patellae (a.k.a “runner’s knee”)
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Edema
- Fibromyalgia
- Knee pain
- Lateral epicondylitis (a.k.a. “tennis elbow”)
- Ligament sprains
- Muscle strains
- Myofascial trigger points
- Osteoarthritis
- Repetitive stress injuries
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Shoulder pain
- Sports injuries
- Tendinitis
- Venous ulcers
- Wrinkles and skin elasticity concerns
Is Laser Therapy approved by the FDA?
Laser Therapy has been widely used around the world in both human medical and veterinary settings since the 1970s. It was approved by the FDA in 2003 as a way to help patients alleviate pain, reduce inflammation and accelerate recovery times.
What does Laser Therapy feel like?
Laser Therapy is a pain-free, non-invasive treatment option. With the exception of a subtle warmth or brief feeling of sensitivity during treatment, most patients do not experience any discomfort.
How often should a patient receive Laser Therapy?
Most acute conditions should be treated daily, particularly if they are accompanied by significant or debilitating pain. Chronic conditions typically respond better when treatments are received 2-3 times a week, tapering to once a week or once every other week with improvement.
How many treatments does it take?
Treatment times vary depending on the condition. For most acute conditions, 3-6 treatments are usually sufficient. Patients with more chronic conditions may require 10 or more visits. Conditions like severe arthritis may require ongoing periodic treatments to control pain.
How quickly do patients see improvements?
Most patients note improvements after only 1-2 sessions. These sessions may be scheduled at 2-3 times per week for a number of weeks and then 1-2 times a week until the condition is under control. For more chronic conditions, 1-2 times a week is usually recommended.
Can Laser Therapy be used on patients with tattoos or scars?
We take extra caution when caring for patients with tattoos or scars, as the areas can heat up more easily. However, laser therapy can be a highly effective treatment option for healing wounds and scars.
For more information on Laser Therapy or to schedule an appointment, call 712-249-8231.
Pottawattamie County Sports & Family Chiropractic 