Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) shows promise for brain injury and concussion symptom treatment. Also known as cold laser therapy, it can help manage pain, reduce inflammation, and increase blood flow. It’s also been shown to stimulate nerve tissue growth and to improve memory and focus.
Photobiomodulation from LLLT stimulates cellular respiration and ATP production
Low-level laser light therapy (LLLT) is a form of therapy that uses red and near-infrared light to stimulate cellular respiration and the production of ATP in our cells. This form of therapy can be particularly helpful for individuals who have suffered a brain injury, as it can help to reverse tissue damage, reduce dangerous amounts of free radicals, decrease lactate build-up, and prevent cell death.
When the brain is injured, it can lead to a variety of complications at the cellular level, including weakened blood-brain barriers and immune responses that can cause further damage. LLLT helps to trigger basic cell functioning, which can help to reverse these processes and promote overall healing. Essentially, LLLT helps to provide the energy that cells need to function properly, which can ultimately help to repair damage and promote recovery after a brain injury.
LLLT is used to heal wounds and relieve pain
Low Level Laser Treatment, also known as Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), is a medical treatment that uses low-intensity lasers or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to stimulate healing and reduce pain and inflammation. This treatment is commonly used in sports medicine to help athletes recover from injuries and improve their performance. It works by delivering light energy to the cells, which then use that energy to repair themselves more quickly and efficiently.
LLLT has also been used by the military to treat chronic injuries in Navy SEALS and other personnel. In one study, SEALS with leg injuries that had not healed with other treatments experienced a 40% improvement in range of motion, pain intensity, and healing rates after receiving LLLT. In another study, naval crew members with lacerations treated with a similar LED array healed 50% faster than a control group that did not receive the treatment. These findings suggest that LLLT may have broad applications in both military and civilian medicine.
LLLT Stimulates Growth of New Nerve Tissue, Enhances Spatial Memory, Neural Function, and Is Neuroprotective
Research has demonstrated that Low Level Laser Treatment can promote the growth of new nerve tissue and improve spatial memory and learning in mice with brain injuries. In human patients with brain injuries, favorable outcomes have also been observed, but some patients required consistent treatment to maintain relief from their symptoms. For example, one patient with Post Concussion Syndrome had improved focus and could work for longer periods after eight weekly LLLT treatments. However, if she stopped treatment for more than two weeks, she regressed. Another patient returned to work full-time after four months of nightly laser treatments and showed improvements in executive function and memory after nine months of treatment. Similarly, this patient regressed when she did not maintain regular treatment.
History of Photobiomodulation
Caution for Using Low Level Laser Therapy
It’s important to note that Low Level Laser Treatment, also known as cold laser therapy, uses low-power lasers that do not generate heat like high-powered lasers. These lasers typically operate under 1,000 milliwatts at wavelengths ranging from 632 to 1,064 nanometers.
It’s crucial to wear laser-protective safety glasses when using lasers as they can cause damage to your eyes. Individuals with dark skin or heavy tattoos may feel some heat in treated tissues. Lasers should not be used on cancerous or suspicious skin lesions or placed over the thyroid. Additionally, pregnant individuals should avoid laser contact with their abdomen. It’s essential to consult with a licensed healthcare professional before using laser therapy to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
Where Do I Get a Laser?
You shouldn’t buy a laser unless your doctor suggests using one. For instance, I bought the Avant LZ30z because that is the laser device that the doctors at Plasticity Brain Centers used on Brittny. I watched how they used the laser, took detailed notes, and recorded a video of her treatment. Before buying a laser I took training courses like this one that THOR offers. Because I knew that Brittny’s treatments at Plasticity were augmented by LLLT, I was willing to invest in buying a laser as we continued her therapy at home. Before purchasing a laser, PLEASE consult with your doctor and get trained on how to effectively use it. I’ve included below the laser products/companies that we have used
