Therapeutic Laser Offers Innovative Pain Relief Treatment

Since its inception in 2002, therapeutic laser treatment has provided a non-invasive option for pain management. A significant milestone was reached in March 2005 when Triangel-Laser Therapy, the pioneering dual-wavelength light therapy, received FDA clearance.

According to Phil Harrington, the manager of training and clinical support for Triangel-Laser Therapy USA, the Triangel-Laser Class 4 Therapy Laser secured FDA approval just last year. In Iowa, seven chiropractors now offer this advanced form of Laser therapy.

One such provider is Chiropractic Health Care Associates, located at 515 7th Ave. SE in Cedar Rapids, which utilizes the powerful Class 4 Therapy Laser.

Understanding the Class 4 Therapy Laser and Its Mechanism
"The Class 4 Therapy Laser is a painless treatment that harnesses specific wavelengths of light to create therapeutic benefits, including enhanced circulation, reduced pain and inflammation, decreased swelling, and improved healing time," explains Samantha Kennedy, a chiropractor at Chiropractic Health Care Associates.

When cells absorb the laser light, it stimulates increased circulation, delivering more oxygen, water, and nutrients to damaged tissues. "It creates an optimal environment for healing," Kennedy notes. "The laser accelerates the body's natural healing process."

Class 4 Therapy Laser is tailored for patients with acute conditions, typically requiring one to six sessions. For chronic conditions, the number of treatments can range from six to fifteen, depending on the patient's specific ailment and needs.

Zmoos Chiropractic Center, situated on 4045 River Ridge Drive NE in Cedar Rapids, offers the Class 4 12-watt physical therapy Laser. Additionally, Progressive Rehabilitation Medicine in Cedar Rapids provides laser therapy services.

The Class 4 laser employs four distinct wavelengths of light: three infrared and one visible red. "The infrared wavelengths penetrate much deeper into the body," says Harrington. "Each wavelength is selected for a particular therapeutic effect."

This type of laser is effective against a wide range of neuromusculoskeletal complaints, from headaches and sinus issues to hip and lower back pain. Compared to conventional painkillers, laser therapy is virtually side-effect free, according to Harrington.

He also highlights the speed of treatment efficacy. Patients generally experience improvements within three sessions. "They don't have to commit to a lengthy treatment plan to determine if it will work for them," he states. "Positive effects, like increased range of motion or pain relief, are often noticeable quite quickly."

Robyn Costello, an employee at Chiropractic Health Care, uses the treatment to alleviate pain from her CrossFit workouts. "It feels like a warm, soothing sensation; it's really relaxing," she describes as Kennedy applies the laser to her shoulder.

Costello has also used the laser therapy for winter-related sinus problems, experiencing noticeable improvement by the end of the day after treatment. Kennedy anticipates that for Costello's shoulder, it might take two to three treatments for full recovery. Some individuals feel immediate effects, while others may require a few sessions.

Kennedy emphasizes that the 980nm physical therapy Laser penetrates deeper into tissue than other treatments, accelerating healing compared to methods like ultrasounds or electrical stimulation. However, the treatment is not suitable for individuals taking photosensitive medications.

Due to the non-invasive nature of the therapy, Kennedy foresees an increase in the use of laser treatments in the future.