It is a multi-faceted and non-medicated therapy that has improved the well-being and health of patients around the world. It has also helped enhance the quality of care that doctors offer towards their patients. Based on your objectives as a patient or practitioner, however the use of laser therapy has certain disadvantages. There are, however, ways to mitigate any disadvantages laser therapy might bring. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of laser therapy could assist you in determining whether the procedure is suitable for you.
Also called photobiomodulation, laser therapy utilizes different wavelengths of light to boost our body’s own healing process. Specific wavelengths have diverse health advantages. Laser therapy with 810nm wavelengths aids muscles and tendons heal for instance, while treatments that use 980nm wavelengths reduce pain, boost circulation, and aid in promoting relaxation of muscles. Laser therapy with 1064nm wavelengths penetrates tissues deep within the body to decrease pain, reduce inflammation, and increase blood flow.
Benefits of Laser Therapy
Laser therapy can be a multi-faceted and non-drug-based treatment, but depending on your objectives as a an expert, it may come with some disadvantages. This article will explore the benefits and drawbacks of laser therapy, and provide solutions/silver linings for the negatives.
The drug-free treatment approach
One of the most appealing benefits for laser treatment is the fact that it’s free of drugs. Patients don’t have to worry about obtaining an appointment, paying for expensive medicines, or the possibility of drug interactions. Laser therapy does not carry the possibility of overdoses or addictions, like opioids and other painkillers.
Treatments that are pain-free
Many patients are reluctant to seek medical treatment due to fears about the discomfort treatment can cause. Laser therapy is non-stressful and comfortable. A lot of patients report feeling relaxed after undergoing laser therapy.
Versatility
Laser therapy is effective in treating the majority of common physical ailments for example:
Muscle tension and spasms
Arthritis
Bursitis
Tendonitis
Ligament sprains
Neuropathy
Neck neck pain
Lower back discomfort
Knee discomfort
The flexibility of this device means that doctors can treat multiple ailments with only one device. This means clinics are able to treat more patients and save both space and money.
Customizable
The best laser therapy devices come with variable power output as well as multiple wavelengths that allow the practitioner to tailor treatments to meet the individual patient’s requirements.
It is possible to combine other treatments.
Since laser therapy is a non-drug therapy and non-invasive, it can be used with other treatments for example, physical therapy injections, surgery or prescription medication. A lot of practitioners have found that the combination of laser therapy and other therapies is more effective than offering only one type of treatment.
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Lasting results
Since laser therapy targets the root of the issue instead of covering symptoms, photobiomodulation therapies is able to provide long-lasting outcomes.
In-progress research
Since its invention in the 1960s, researchers have conducted a myriad of studies to examine the effects of laser therapy and to discover new ways to use it. Laser therapy is becoming increasingly popular with patients and practitioners as well, researchers continue to look for new ways to use this cutting-edge technology.
The disadvantages of laser therapy
Insurance coverage
Certain insurance policies might not cover laser treatment. This could be a challenge for clinics that are accustomed to billing insurance companies for any procedure.
In order to overcome this, practitioners may offer laser therapy as a payment option. Although it may be difficult for certain practices to make the shift, cash-based services is beneficial to both clinics and patients. Many clinics appreciate the speedy settlement of cash services instead of having to fill out insurance forms and waiting weeks or even months for the money. Cash services also attract patients with no insurance who would otherwise get the treatment they require.
Safety protocols
Although laser therapy is safe, those who use it need to undergo instruction to operate the laser therapy equipment. This training helps them to understand the effects of different wavelengths on the body of patients and how to operate the devices for laser therapy safely.