What is Low Level
Laser Therapy (LLLT)?
LASER is an acronym for
Light Amplification by Stimulated
Emission of Radiation. Low Level Laser
Therapy or Cold Laser therapy is the application of
specific wavelengths of coherent laser light, however
some unique lasers such as the Q1000 also deliver
specific frequencies for added benefit and increased
results. Frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz) and a
lasers' wavelength is measured in nanometers (nm).
Select laser light wavelengths supply the tissues at
a cellular level with photons and electrons.
Many Low Level Lasers exist under
the following names: cold laser, soft laser,
stimulating laser, resonating laser, quantum laser
and so fourth. All of these Low Level Lasers are
non-cutting, non-heat producing, gentle, therapeutic
lasers.
What is the difference between Low
Level Laser Models, Stimulating Lasers and Resonating
Lasers?
Finding good, unbiased information on lasers can
be difficult. Choosing a laser that will serve your
needs and fit into your budget can be daunting. This
is a good place to educate yourself. One laser that
utilizes a single wavelength can be great for
numerous applications, but it will not successfully
treat all dis-eases and disorders. Owning multiple
lasers or a laser that combines various wavelengths
in one instrument provides for a greater treatment
range. The difference between Low Level Laser Models
boils down to the following 10 points:
Wavelength is the length of the
light wave and is measured in millimeters (mm) most
often expressed in nanometers (nm), which is 1/1000
of a millimeter. Wavelength and color are basically
the same in the visible spectrum. Laser Light in the
wavelength range of 600 - 700 nanometers (nm) results
in visible red light, which penetrates up to 1/2". In
the wavelength range of 701 - 1000 nm, invisible
infrared Laser Light results, with a penetration
depth up to 3". These two specific wavelength groups
of coherent laser light are the most commonly used.
They quickly help to activate the bodies innate
cellular communication system and positive immune,
enzyme and endorphin response. The most preferable
red light wavelengths are 630-660 nm, and for
infrared 808-830 nm.
Power density is the power output
of a laser or laser diode and is measured in
milliwatts (mW) or 1/1000 of a watt. Maintaining a
constant power density is critical in Low Level Laser
Therapy and is best achieved with a microprocessor or
mini-computer.
Penetration is the
depth a laser beam will penetrate into the body,
dependant on the type of laser being used and the
frequency range it applies (See above).
Polarization is the
body's way of protecting itself against unpredictable
energy, such as electromagnetic pollution.
Polarization is also known as impedance of
resistance. It is triggered by Low Level Lasers
utilizing a high power density or by lasers that are
not controlled by a mini-computer, which ensures the
power density and frequency are constant. The success
of many Low Level Lasers is compromised by these two
factors and it is important to purchase a laser that
is driven by the exactness of a mini-computer for
optimal performance.
Stimulating Lasers
operate between 5 mW and 500 mW of power. There are
many Low Level Lasers manufactured around the world
with many different power densities and wavelengths.
Most lasers manufactured today are of a single
wavelength powered by either AC or DC current. While
AC (alternating 110V current) is okay for stimulating
lasers, it is counter productive for Resonating
Lasers. DC (direct current) power supplies, while
preferable for lasers are faced with a common problem
that has only been overcome in a few existing laser
models. The problem is that the battery loses power
each time it is turned on for use. When this happens,
if the product does not feature computerized output
control, the laser will have a different power
density each time it is turned on, which seriously
affects results. Some of the best Stimulating Lasers
are the 660 and 808 enhancer probes and the
Microlight/SportLaser 830.
Resonating
Lasers emit subtle energy capable of
relaxing muscles, relieving pain, healing wounds, and
with the proper combination of frequencies,
delivering energy into the organs and glands.
Resonating Lasers operate at less than 5 mW of power
per diode in order to prevent polarization and to
enhance the production of soliton waves. The more
laser diodes a Resonating Laser has, the larger the
area that can be treated at one time. A good
Resonating Laser is powered by a mini-computer, which
allows for precise power density output of less than
5 mW per diode. The mini-computer can also control
the precise wavelength emitted or allow for a series
of specifically selected wavelengths. The Q1000
Resonating Laser features 20 diodes with less than 5
mW of power each (12 laser diodes and 8 LED diodes),
and is powered by complex patented computerized
technology that maintains the same power density each
time the laser is activated, regardless of remaining
battery life. This assures the user of superior
results. The patented computerized technology in the
Q1000 controls the complexities of combining
wavelengths, associated frequencies and the soliton
wave.
Soliton
wave is a non-linear light wave that
maintains its shape and increases amplitude after
colliding with a similar wave. This increased
amplitude of combined wavelengths allows the soliton
wave to penetrate deeper into the body tissue. To
date the Q1000 laser is the only one on the market
that offers this patent pending advanced feature.
Utilizing a combination of 7 different wavelengths
and 6 soliton waves, the Q1000 can use subtle
energies at the cellular level to penetrate and
resonate cells in a way that more expensive, single
wavelength lasers cannot compare. Utilizing this
soliton wave technology allows for the Q1000, class
1, non-significant risk laser device to accomplish
results unattainable from higher powered stimulating
lasers. Some researchers and laser manufacturers
think the photons can be forced into the body by
increasing the power density. While increasing the
power density may work to stimulate certain parts of
the body, increasing the power density actually
reduces the resonating capability of low level
lasers. The soliton wave is the greatest breakthrough
in Low Level Lasers and makes it possible for subtle
energy to penetrate deep into body tissues to
resonate cells and balance organs. The Q1000 is set
to produce 6 soliton waves with multiple wavelengths
from 470-940 nm. This is the same technology that is
used by whales and dolphins to communicate hundreds
of miles with subtle voice frequencies projected into
wave currents, which creates a soliton wave of new
energy. With the Q1000, the subtle healing energies
of the red light spectrum, piggy-back on the deeper
penetrating frequencies of the infrared spectrum,
creating a cascading effect of healing frequencies
that are delivered directly to the cells that need
the energy at a power density that is easily
assimilated.
Frequency is the term used to explain
the vibration of energy in all things. Everything we
know and understand has a vibrational frequency,
which is measured in Hertz (Hz). Royal Rife and Jack
Swartz dedicated their lives to discovering the
frequencies that correspond to such things as:
various diseases, bacteria, viruses and other
disorders. In diagnostic medicine, frequencies are
well known: EKG's for the heart, EEG's for the brain,
and MRI's for injured cells. The Q1000 Resonating
Laser produces 1-20,000 Hz and is capable of
utilizing and emitting hundreds of specialized
frequencies.
The "spread
area" of a laser is the diameter of the area
that can be treated at one time. This depends on the
type of laser being used and the number of laser
diodes the laser is utilizing for treatment. Most
common Stimulating Lasers utilize 1-3 laser diodes
focused upon a single point about 3mm (1/4 inch). The
3mm spot area is surrounded by a larger diameter,
which is the immediate effective spread of the Laser
energy. The "spread area" is approximately 10mm in
diameter. A few other lasers utilize more laser
diodes to cover a larger area. The Q1000 Resonating
Laser for example, utilizes 12 laser diodes and 8
LED's and provides a treatment area of 2.69 sq. in.
(17.34 cm2). About the size of a tennis ball.
Joules
is the term used to define the amount of energy
delivered by one watt of power in one second. The
formula for calculating joules is output x time
÷ area and is critical in determining if a
laser is resonating or stimulating. The Q1000 when
used as a Resonating Laser has a total output per
3-minute cycle of 3.9 Joules. When used with the
optional Stimulating Laser Attachment, 660 Enhancer
Probe you get 6.6 Joules per 3-minute cycle (2.2
J/min.) and with the optional Stimulating Laser
Attachment, 808 Enhancer Probe you get 54 Joules per
3-minute cycle (18 J/min.). The Microlight
Stimulating Laser 830 puts out 5 J/min. The Laser
Q-Pack is a combination of the Q1000 with both the
660 and 808 Enhancer probes, which is effectively
like owning 3 powerful lasers for treatment of all
possible applications.
We are complex spiritual and energetic beings.
Disease or dis-ease and illness are the result of
imbalances in our unique energy systems, which
compromises our immune, circulatory and muscular
skeletal systems. Sickness is not necessarily caused
by germs, bacteria and viruses, although these "bugs"
are opportunists and they do interfere with our
health when our inner terrain is compromised. When
the immune system is inactive, overworked or
suppressed and the cells are weak and unable to
function at peak capacity, dis-ease and aging
result.
Low Level Laser Light
irradiation works to support the natural healing
process of the body because it:
Donates photons and electrons to the
injured tissues and weak cells of the body, which
supports the production of ATP (energy) that is
needed by cells to carry out their duties.
Reduces pain by causing the
production of natural pain killer endorphins.
Reduces inflammation by suppressing
inflammatory enzymes that create swelling, redness,
pain, and heat and enhance the release of
anti-inflammatory enzymes.
Enhances the process of nerve
regeneration and muscle relaxation.
Enhances lymphatic drainage, which
increases circulation, reduces edema and speeds
healing.
Stimulate the release of helpful
healing enzymes.
Releases tight muscles (both smooth
and striated) that create chronic pain, joint
problems, and decreased mobility.
Speeds bone repair by stimulating
fibroblastic and osteoblastic proliferation.
Appears to be antiviral, antifungal,
and antiherpetic when applied in the correct
frequency.
Laser irradiation of tissue cultures of a
mammalian cell has been shown to result in a change
in membrane permeability, increased ATP levels and
increased DNA production. The photons picked up by
the cell membrane result in improved membrane
stability and increased activity of the ATP dependent
Na/K pump. Because cell metabolism is influenced by
Na/K movement across the membrane, increasing the
gradient will affect the flow of ions and hence the
overall metabolism of the cell.
Are Low Level Lasers Proven
Effective?
Low Level Laser Therapy is being used as a
successful treatment option for countless, pain,
inflammation, dental, burn and illness conditions all
over the world. Low Level Lasers have been used for
over 30 years in many countries as therapeutic energy
to bring about favorable biological effects in
people, plants and animals. Unlike many therapies and
drugs that just treat symptoms, Low Level Laser
Therapy (LLLT) has the ability to actually promote
and enhance healing. LLLT is the future of medicine
and is a modality that is rapidly growing in
popularity throughout the world. In the last few
years Laser Therapy in North America has been
steadilly and exponentially increasing and the FDA
has recently cleared multiple laser and LED devices
for treatment of a variety of medical conditions
including: carpal tunnel syndrome, cervical neck
pain, low back pain, joint pain, generalized muscle
pain and acceleration of wound healing. Technical
light therapy is being used by Governmental agencies
such as NASA for treating medical conditions in space
applications. The U.S. Olympic training facilities
have just released statements of endorsement for
Laser Therapy for athletes. The growing acceptance of
LLLT in mainstream medicine is yet another indication
of the medical efficacy of this highly effective
treatment modality, which is proving to be not only a
viable, but often a superior treatment option.
Over 75 Trillion cells in a human body all need
electrons to communicate with each other. Laser light
delivers these required electrons directly to the
cells and enhances both their ability to communicate
with each other and their ability to produce ATP
(energy), which they require for optimal functioning.
Additionally LLLT causes the release of healing
enzymes and the production of endorphins, which are
natural pain killers.
Are Low Level Lasers Safe?
The answer is a resounding YES. When Low Level
Lasers are used correctly, they are very safe. The
most important safety regulation is to avoid pointing
a laser at the eye. Stimulating lasers have a
particularly powerful beam and can cause harm to the
retina. Do not point them directly at a fetus during
pregnancy, or directly over a cancer. Cold lasers
have been used successfuly for over 30 years with no
reported incidences of anyone being injured.
Resonating lasers such as the Q1000 can be used
safely during pregnancy over the body, but not
directly on the fetus. Resonating Lasers are used in
some countries for treating cancer and heart disease.
Low Level Laser Therapy has been proven completely
safe in over 2000 worldwide studies. To date there
are no known reports of anyone being harmed from a
low level laser.
How do you use Low Level Lasers?
Low Level Lasers are used by applying the laser
light at a right angle, directly over the area or
condition of concern, and leaving it there until the
recommended number of Joules is absorbed. Later in
this document you will learn about utilizing lasers
for the treatment of acupuncture points and the
number of Joules required per point. Both Resonating
Lasers and Stimulating Lasers can be used for
acu-point, trigger-point and myofascial-point
treatment. While the Q1000 is a Resonating Laser, if
it is used for longer periods of time on a single
point it will also provide the same stimulating
results as a Stimulating Laser, however a Stimulating
Laser cannot achieve the same effects of a Resonating
Laser.
Low Level Laser Therapy
Treatment Guidelines:
The Laser treatment may be given with a Resonating
Laser or a probe style laser. While a Resonating
Laser may take longer to treat a point, it will also
treat a much larger area. Stimulating probe style
lasers typically provide spot treatment of
approximately 3mm (1/4 inch). The 3mm spot area is
surrounded by a larger area, which is the immediate
effective spread of the Laser energy. The "spread
area" in this instance would be approximately 10mm in
diameter. The laser should be applied at right angles
to the skin, in order to avoid loss of light energy
due to reflection or deflection. The laser can be
applied over light clothing or wound dressings,
however it does not perform well with black or thick
clothing.
Laser Point Treatment:
The following protocols are for Resonating or
"point treatment" as apposed to scanning. "Point
treatment" means to treat any given point on the
surface tissue, with the selected dosage. Optionally,
some therapists may choose to use the technique of
scanning, which involves moving the laser with the
tip as close to the tissue as possible, backwards and
forwards over the selected area of treatment. With
"scanning" the movement should be very slow and
steady. Imaginary lines should be traced with spacing
of 5-10mm between the lines and sometimes crisscross
lines are also applied. This results in a general
"bathing" technique, which can be used to treat
larger target areas. However, with this technique it
is important to make sure that adequate time is spent
in doing this to ensure that enough Joules are
absorbed by the tissue.
Information on production of Joules
with Stimulating Lasers:
The infrared, 500 mW, 808 Enhancer
Probe produces approximately 54 Joules over a 3mm
(1/4 inch) area during a 3-minute cycle. That's 18
Joules every minute, 9 Joules every 30 seconds or 4.5
Joules every 15 seconds. As you can see, this probe
has the power to work deeply (4-10 cm) and quickly,
because most points only require between 1-10 Joules.
Worldwide research shows effective use on
joint/tendon pain, bone/cartilage regeneration,
cavitations, osteoporosis and deep scar reduction.
The 808 Enhancer probe is a class 3 laser device that
is FDA registered for safety.
The red light, 50 mW, 660 Enhancer
Probe produces approximately 6.6 Joules over a 3mm
(1/4 inch) area during a 3-minute cycle. The Red
Light Laser is traditionally used by acupuncturists.
Worldwide research shows effective use on acupuncture
and acupressure points (replacing needles or
pressure), surface scar reduction, more than a dozen
dental applications, as well as beneficial effects
when used anywhere on the surface that more energy
stimulations is needed. The 660 Enhancer probe is a
class 3 laser device that is FDA registered for
safety.
The infrared, 3x 30 mW, 830 nm
SportLaser/Microlight Stimulating Laser produces 2.9
Joules per 33 sec. cycle over a 3mm (1/4 inch) area,
or approximately 5.8 Joules per minute. It penetrates
deeply (5 cm) and works quickly on acu-points &
trigger-points. Extensive testing has been done on
this laser and it is FDA registered for safety and
FDA cleared for efficacy in treatment of Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome.
The information and protocols provided within this
report is for informational purposes only. Neither
the manufacturer of the devices discussed, nor the
author make any human claims to diagnose, treat or
cure any disease or disorder. The information and
protocols are used to demonstrate how owners of Low
Level Lasers can help themselves by delivering
photons to the body and thus encouraging the body to
heal itself. Anyone who uses this information assumes
full responsibility and liability for their own
actions.
By acknowledging this disclaimer, the reader
accepts full responsibility for any and all
consequences of his or her use of Low Level Laser
Therapy and the products described. The Low Level
Laser products described have been registered with
the FDA, but some of them may not, as of yet, been
studied by the FDA for efficacy. Low Level Laser
Therapy is neither a cure nor an alternative to
proper medical care. You should always seek the care
of a competent medical care provider.
Frequency of Treatment Sessions:
In general, treat every 2-3 days for 4-5
treatments. Follow this with one treatment per week
until the issue is resolved. Some conditions,
including long term chronic conditions may need "tune
up" treatment every 4-6 weeks, or as required.
Treatment Parameters:
Never look directly at the Laser
aperture or the light. Protect your eyes. Infrared
laser light is invisible, so use extra caution with
it.
A maximum of 50 Joules per adult for
total treatment dosage and 25 Joules for a child is
recommended per session.
Overuse of a laser is generally just
a waste of time and will cause diminishing returns,
reducing the benefits, but you will not make a cell
worse than when you started.
If pain gets worse due to treatment,
which rarely occurs, do not be alarmed. The laser has
increased the circulation and caused the release of
toxins, which sometimes causes some early discomfort.
It is an indication of tissue reactivity and precedes
improvement.
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) is
generally considered complimentary and can be used
with adjunctive treatments. In general it is a good
idea when combining LLLT with other modalities to do
cooling techniques prior to LLLT and warming
techniques after LLLT.
Patients with acute conditions will
frequently see beneficial effects almost immediately.
Patients with chronic conditions may find that a
slightly longer treatment regime is required before
effects are obvious.
Laser Treatment Protocols:
Laser Treatment Protocols are given in
Joules per cm squared (J/cm2):
For Acupuncture
Therapy:
· 1-3 Joules per point is used to tonify
· 4-8 Joules per point is used to sedate
For Arthritis:
· 2-4 J/cm2
· 2-6 Points per joint, depending on size of
joint
· Point spacing is every 6 sq. cm., depending
on palpation, edema
· Treat 2-3 times per week for 4-6
weeks
For Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome:
· 9 J/cm2
· Treatment of 4 key points
· Location: Inner wrist and palm. 3 points
along the inner writs inline with the 2 nd or 3 rd
crease up from the hand, 1 at the Tenosynovium point
on the wrist crease line, inline with the pinkie
finger, 2 in the middle of the wrist crease line, on
the Median nerve, 3 inline with the thumb on the
wrist crease line and the 4 th point is down from the
thumb, on the palm, in the middle of the large raised
pad at the base of the thumb, feel for the sore spot.
Optional spot on the back-side of the wrist, at the
crease in the middle, in the slight hollow or
indentation.
Tendinitis /
Epicondylitis:
· 1-4 J/cm2 for 2-3 treatment
· 2-8 J/cm2 for duration of treatment
· Point spacing is every 6 sq. cm., depending
on palpation and tenderness
· Treat 2-3 times per week for 2-4 weeks
Temporo-Mandibular
Disorders:
· 4-10 J/cm2
· 4-6 J/cm2 if Arthritis or Arthrosis is a
causative factor
· For trismus, tender points and muscle
attachment, treat 6-10 J per session
· Treat 2-3 times per week for 2-4
weeks
Lower Back Pain:
· 6-9 J/cm2
· 2-6 points along either or both sides of
the lower spine in the erector muscles.
· Treat affected side(s) with 2-3 points
per side.
· Treat 3 times per week for 4 weeks
Cervical Neck
Pain:
·6-9 J/cm2
· 2-4 points along either or both sides of
the neck in areas of soreness.
· Treat 3 times per week for 4 weeks
Myofascial Pain:
· 3-6 J/cm2
· Treat specific points of concern 2-3
times per week for 4 weeks
Strains and
Sprains:
· 2-4 J/cm2
· 2-4 points, depending on size of
joint
· Point spacing is every 6 sq. cm.
· Treat daily for 4 days, then every 2 nd
or 3 rd day (4-8 days total)
· Reduction of edema and pain is the
indicator of effect. Continue treatment for 2
sessions beyond disappearance of edema.
Frozen Shoulder:
· 9-12 J/cm2
· 2-6 points, depending on size of
joint
· Point spacing is every 6 sq. cm.
· Treat 3 times per week for 4 weeks
· Begin treatment at the anterior /
inferior aspect of the joint capsule , proceed
superiorly, up across and to the posterior aspect of
the capsule. As pain diminishes secondary to tx,
begin ROM exercises.
Myositis / Muscle Contusion /
Rupture:
· 2-4 J/cm2
· The number of points depends on treatment
area
· Point spacing is 1 cm. Into normal
tissue, depending on palpation area
· Treat daily for 4 days, then 2-3 times
per week, if necessary (4-8 treatments)
· In the case of myositis, an exacerbation
of symptoms is often felt after the first 2-3
treatments. This is temporary. If necessary, the
dosage should be decreased if treatment should be
given every second day instead of every day.
Dental:
· 4 Joules for each point treated
· For each affected tooth, treat the crown
and also the gum immediately above and to either side
of the tooth. This can be done on the inner and outer
sides of the gum.
· For extra good measure, select 6-8 points
along the sub mandibular and cervical lymph nodes on
the affected side and treat with 2 Joules each
point
Disclaimer:
The information and protocols provided within this
report is for informational purposes only. Neither
the manufacturer of the devices discussed, nor the
author make any human claims to diagnose, treat or
cure any disease or disorder. The information and
protocols are used to demonstrate how owners of Low
Level Lasers can help themselves by delivering
photons to the body and thus encouraging the body to
heal itself. Anyone who uses this information
assumes full responsibility and liability for their
own actions.
By acknowledging this disclaimer, the reader
accepts full responsibility for any and all
consequences of his or her use of Low Level Laser
Therapy and the products described. The Low Level
Laser products described have been registered with
the FDA, but some of them may not, as of yet, been
studied by the FDA for efficacy. Low Level Laser
Therapy is neither a cure nor an alternative to
proper medical care. You should always seek the care
of a competent medical care provider.
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