Cold Laser Portland: Portland Cold Laser Treatments by Dr. Tim Irving, a Portland Chiropractor

Low Level Laser Therapy

In addition to nutrition and functional physiological disturbances, Optimum Function is dedicated to offering the latest, state-of-the-art therapies for treating pain in the low back and neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and feet and also sciatica, peripheral nerves, and bulging or degenerative disc disease. One of the ways I accomplish this is by utilizing a class IIIb laser (AKA “Cold Laser”, “Low Level Laser Therapy”, or “Phototherapy”). The Vectra Genisys Laser is one of the most advanced non-surgical and pain-free class IIIb lasers available today.

joint pain, carpal tunnel, thoracic outlet, TMJ, ankle pain, chiropractic, chiropractor, portland, oregon

The History of Laser Therapy

The word "laser" is an acronym for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. The theory was first described by Albert Einstein (1879-1955) who paved the way for the development of the therapeutic laser.The first low-level therapeutic laser was developed in 1962.

By the end of the 1960's, Endre Mester in Hungary was reporting improved wound healing through the use of low-level laser radiation. Since then, scientists and doctors around the world have been using laser light to treat conditions that can affect all age groups.

High Power vs. Low Power Medical Lasers

There are two types of medical laser: high power and low power. High power lasers are used to cut through tissue. Low-level lasers, on the other hand, are used to stimulate tissue repair through a process of bio-stimulation.

The Physiological Effects of Low Level Laser Therapy

Improved metabolism
Increase of cell metabolism
Improved blood circulation and vasodilatation
Analgesic effects (Pain relief)
Anti-inflammatory and anti-edematous effects (anti-swelling)
Stimulation of wound healing.

Many acute and chronic conditions can be improved or eliminated with laser use, including:

Pain Relief
Wound Healing
Arthritis
Migraine headaches
Low back pain
Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
Tendonitis
Fibromyalgia
Sprains and strains
Post-operative pain
Tennis Elbow
Golfer's Elbow
TMJ dysfunction
Soft tissue injuries
Post-operative wounds
Swelling
Burns
Pressure sores

Frequently asked Questions about Low Level Laser Therapy:

What is Low Level Laser Therapy?

Low Level laser therapy is defined by the North American Association of Laser Therapy (NAALT) as “…a therapeutic physical modality, using photons from the visible and infrared spectrum (600nm-1000nm) for tissue healing and pain reduction”.

Low Level Laser Therapy has been proven to penetrate tissue and to be absorbed at a cellular level. A series of reactions occur resulting in enhanced tissue healing, pain control and stimulation of the vascular, immune and lymphatic systems. It is the only therapeutic modality with a cumulative effect in the cells and tissue. Low Level laser therapy is safe, painless, and non-invasive; the results are often immediate and last a long time so you don’t have to come in for treatment as often.

How does Low Level Laser Therapy work?

Low Level Laser Therapy uses laser light energy that stimulates cells which helps the cells to function optimally. In the body, light sensitive elements within the cell absorb energy, initiating a series of important photochemical changes such as increased production of nitric oxide, singlet oxygen and ATP, as well as an increase in the cell membrane’s permeability. Mitochondria are stimulated, which may initiate the production of ATP thus providing the cell with the extra energy needed during its healing process. This enhanced cellular activity has a positive influence pain and healing.

Is Low Level Laser Therapy Safe?

Low Level Laser Therapy has been successfully used around the world for over 30 years, with no reported long-term side effects. In the United States the FDA has ruled that the therapy is safe. The laser used at Optimum Function is an FDA certified laser. For the past 30 years the technology of Low Level Laser Therapy has been formally accepted in Canada, Europe, Scandinavia, Russia and Japan. It is considered to be non-invasive, painless and safe.

The question is often asked "Aren’t lasers used in surgical operations, to cauterize tissue?" The answer is "Yes" - Hot Lasers are able to cauterize (cut) tissue. However, the laser I use is "cold" with design parameters that make it impossible to damage even one cell in the body. The Vectra Genisys laser I use stimulates and energizes the cells.

Is Low Level Laser Therapy painful?

No. Low level lasers do not generate perceivable heat. Therefore, when the laser contacts the skin the patient experiences no warmth or burning as a result of the laser. Most people feel nothing at all while a few may feel a slight tingling during the treatment.

Is Low-Level Laser Therapy for You?
Do you suffer pain from an old or new sports injury or accident?
Do you suffer from repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome? Do you suffer from lower back pain?
Do you suffer from migraine headaches?
Do you take pain medications more than three times a week? you ever wake up in the night with pain?
Do you have potential scarring from a recent surgery?
If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, low-level laser therapy may be for you.

Yours in Health,
Tim Irving DC, MS, LMT, CKTP, Nutritionist

Optimum Function
819 SE Morrison St.
Suite 215
Portland, OR
97214

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