LLLT FAQs
Does it hurt? What does the treatment feel like?There is little to no sensation during treatment. Occasionally, the patient may feel a mild warmth or tingling sensation.
Are there any side effects or associated risks?
During more than 20 years of use by healthcare providers all over the world, very few side effects have ever been reported. A patient allergic to light may get a rash or blister lasting a few days. Occasionally, some old injuries or pain syndromes may feel aggravated for a few days as the healing response is more active after treatment.
How long does each treatment take?
The typical treatment duration is 5-15 minutes depending on the size of the area being treated and the condition being treated.
How often should the patient be treated?
Acute conditions may be treated daily, particularly if they are accompanied by significant pain. More chronic problems respond better when treatments are received 2-3 times per week tapering off to once per week or once every other week, with improvement.
How many treatments does it take?
This depends on the nature of the condition being treated. For some acute conditions, 1-6 treatments may suffice. Those of a more chronic nature may require 1-15 (or more) treatments. Conditions such as severe arthritis may require ongoing periodic care to control pain.
How long before the results are felt?
You may feel improvement in your condition (usually pain reduction) after the very first treatment. Sometimes you will not feel improvement for a number of treatments since laser therapy has a cumulative effect. Results are often felt after 3-4 sessions.
Can it be used along with other forms of treatment?
Yes. Laser therapy is often used with other forms of therapy including physical therapy, chiropractic adjustments, massage, soft tissue mobilization and electrotherapy. It is also used after surgery. Other healing modalities are complementary and can be used with laser to increase the effectiveness of treatment.
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