Photobiomodulation Therapy
Let there be light
Photobiomodulation, (previously called low-level laser therapy), refers to the treatment of various conditions using a laser to effect a photo-chemical reaction at a cellular level. The laser infrared light penetrates into tissue where it is absorbed by cells and converted into energy that influences the course of metabolic processes. Low level laser therapy does NOT heat tissue. Laser therapy is recognised and used worldwide for the treatment of numerous injuries in humans and animals.
Benefits of Low Level Laser
Laser therapy enables the restoration of lymphatic drainage due to stimulation of new lymphatic pathways. This happens through a reduction of fibrosis and scarring of tissues. It
enables the reduction in tissue fluid accumulation through changes in blood flow, either directly via an effect on the blood vessels or by neural regulation of vessels in the limb.
Low Level Laser is extensively used to promote wound healing, oral mucositis, muscular /skeletal pain relief and as treatment for a wide variety of other conditions.
Photobiomodulation used in clinic: LTU-904 Laser Therapy Unit
The LTU-904 is an infrared laser operating at a wavelength of 904 nanometers. This invisible wavelength penetrates up to 2cms into tissue. The unit is a hand-held, battery powered, treatment device, is non thermal and delivers a controlled series of 200ns bursts of pulses of 904nm laser beam. This is in the near infrared spectrum that is invisible to the human eye.
The LTU-904 is the ONLY laser device cleared by FDA for lymphoedema treatment.
Specific advantages of the LTU-904 laser therapy include:
Simple and often immediate analgesic effect at the time of treatment
Dramatically shortened recovery time with rapid reduction of swelling and inflammation
Non-invasive and quick treatment
Responsive injuries
The LTU models are Class 1 lasers and therefore eye-safe for patients and clinicians
The 904 nanometer wavelength of the LTU-904 is especially effective in the treatment of:
Lymphoedema
Slow healing skin wounds
Fibrous lesions
Sprained and strained ligaments
Tendon injuries
Muscle soreness
Ease of Use
The features of the LTU models are their strength and portability. The LTU-904 Unit is designed to be used as easily in the field as in the surgery. The small portable package is hand-held with rechargeable batteries that give up to five hours of continuous use between charges, or the units can be operated from mains power.
The digital timer keeps track of the treatment time, and the audible beep confirms that the unit is working.
The unit comes with a reflective shield. This innovation ensures that light reflected from the surface of the skin is reflected back to the tissue. This improves the effectiveness of the unit.