What is Laser?
Photobiomodulation (PBM) Therapy, also known as Red-light Therapy, Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or Cold Laser, is the application of red or near infrared light to improve wound and soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation and give relief for both acute and chronic pain. Unlike drugs or surgery, photobiomodulation actually promotes tissue regeneration and reduces inflammation. It is also non-toxic, non-invasive and has no side-effects. Read about the science here.
Does it hurt?
Photobiomodulation laser therapy uses LEDs and class 3b lasers that do not damage tissue. The light stimulates healing. Sometimes when used over dark hair follicles, dark skin, or dark tattoos a prickling sensation is felt, but it doesn’t damage the skin.
What Can Photobiomodulation Treat?
Photobiomodulation works by stimulating chromophores that are found in every cell of your body. These are enzymes that respond to light. Once activated, the chromophores help to release nitric oxide and allow allow mitochondria to take in oxygen. The mitrochondria in cells use oxygen to create energy. This process encourages tissues to heal. The light also decreases radical oxygen species, improves circulation and stimulates the lymphatic system. Because photobiomodulation works at the cellular level, it can be used to treat a wide variety of ailments. We work on a variety of musculoskeletal injuries, concussion, stroke, fibromyalgia, anxiety and depression, among others.
Thor or NovoThor (handhelds or pod)?
We have both the handheld Thor lasers as well as Alberta’s only full-body medical light pod. For most musculoskeletal injuries we use the handheld lasers, but for extensive injuries, general unwellness, fibromyalgia and anxiety or depression we use the pod. Some conditions, such as stroke, respond best when both handheld lasers and the pod are used.
Questions?
If you’d like to learn more about photobiomodulation and if it will be right for you, please email us at any time.
