Laser Therapy For Back Pain
Back pain can be a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It can make ordinary tasks seem impossible and can lead to decreased quality of life.
While there are many options for treating back pain, laser therapy has emerged as a popular and effective alternative. Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses low-level lasers to penetrate the skin and stimulate damaged cells, promoting healing and reducing inflammation.
Many studies have shown that laser therapy can effectively reduce back pain, increase mobility, and improve the overall quality of life.
However, if you are still wondering can laser therapy make the pain worse in Media, PA, then read this guide thoroughly.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of laser therapy for back pain and how it works to alleviate symptoms.
How Can Laser Therapy Help Back Pain?
Laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy or cold laser therapy, uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate the skin's surface and stimulate the body's natural healing process.
It is a non-invasive, painless procedure that can be performed by a medical professional or an accredited therapist.
When it comes to back pain, laser therapy can be beneficial in several ways. Firstly, it can help reduce inflammation in the affected area.
Inflammation is a common cause of back pain, and laser therapy can help to reduce the inflammation by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the area.
Secondly, laser therapy can help to reduce pain and stiffness by stimulating the production of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.
The laser energy triggers a response in the body, releasing endorphins that help to alleviate pain and promote relaxation.
Furthermore, laser therapy can also stimulate the healing of damaged tissues, such as muscles, ligaments, or tendons, that can be a cause of back pain.
By accelerating the healing process, laser therapy can help to reduce the recovery time and prevent further injury. If you want to further understand the working process, you can contact Restoration Physical Therapy in Media, PA.
Benefits of Laser Therapy for Back Pain
Non-invasive treatment option
One of the significant benefits of laser therapy for back pain is that it is a non-invasive treatment option.
Unlike surgery, laser therapy does not require incisions or anesthesia, making it a less risky and less painful option for individuals suffering from back pain. Laser therapy is administered through a handheld device and is a painless procedure that does not require hospitalization.
Effective pain relief
Laser therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing pain associated with back pain. The laser energy penetrates deep into the tissues, promoting tissue repair and reducing inflammation, which is a significant cause of pain.
Laser therapy also promotes the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, reducing the need for pain medication.
Reduced inflammation
Inflammation is a significant cause of back pain. Laser therapy has been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation in the affected tissues, promoting healing, and reducing pain.
The laser energy stimulates the production of collagen, which is necessary for tissue repair, reducing inflammation in the affected region.
Increased blood flow
Laser therapy also promotes increased blood flow to the affected area. Increased blood flow promotes healing and reduces pain by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the affected tissues, reducing inflammation, and promoting tissue repair.
No side effects
Laser therapy has no significant side effects, making it a safe and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from back pain.
Unlike pain medication, which may cause drowsiness and other side effects, laser therapy has no adverse side effects.
Short treatment time
Laser therapy is a quick and easy treatment option, requiring only a few minutes per session. The treatment time depends on the severity and location of the back pain but typically takes less than 30 minutes.
This makes laser therapy a convenient option for individuals with busy schedules who may not have the time for more extended or invasive treatment options.
Cost-effective
Laser therapy is a cost-effective treatment option for back pain. While the cost may vary depending on the location and severity of the back pain, laser therapy is generally more affordable than surgery or long-term pain medication.
Laser therapy is also covered by some insurance companies, making it an accessible treatment option for many individuals.
Accelerated healing
Laser therapy promotes the production of collagen, which is necessary for tissue repair. Collagen helps to connect the damaged tissues, promoting faster healing.
The increased ATP production in the cells increases the metabolism of the cells, leading to faster cellular regeneration leading to quicker healing times.
Customizable treatment plans
Laser therapy treatment plans can be customized to meet the specific needs of each patient. Your healthcare provider can adjust the intensity, duration, and frequency of the laser therapy treatments based on your individual pain level and condition.
Reduced need for pain medication
Laser therapy promotes the production of natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body, reducing the need for pain medication. This is beneficial for individuals who cannot or do not want to rely on pain medication for long-term pain management.
What are the Side Effects of Laser Therapy for Back Pain?
While laser therapy is generally considered to be a safe treatment option, there are some potential side effects that you should be aware of. These include:
Skin Irritation
One of the most common side effects of laser therapy is skin irritation. This can occur when the laser is applied to the skin, and it can cause redness, itching, and swelling.
Burns
Another potential side effect of laser therapy is burns. This can occur if the laser is used for too long or at too high of an intensity. Burns can be painful and can take some time to heal.
Numbness or Tingling Sensation
In some cases, laser therapy can cause a numbness or tingling sensation in the treated area. This is usually temporary and will go away on its own.
Dizziness
Some people may experience dizziness after receiving laser therapy. This can be caused by changes in blood flow or by changes in the body's natural balance system.
Eye Damage
Laser therapy can also potentially cause eye damage. This can occur if the laser is directed at the eyes or if there are reflective surfaces in the treatment area.
How Can You Reduce the Risk of Side Effects?
While there is always some risk of side effects when undergoing any medical treatment, there are steps that you can take to reduce the risk of experiencing side effects from laser therapy. These include:
Choosing an Experienced Practitioner
It is important to choose an experienced practitioner who has experience with laser therapy. This will help to ensure that the treatment is safe and effective.
Following Precautions
Your practitioner may recommend that you follow certain precautions before and after treatment. These may include avoiding shaving or wearing certain types of clothing.
Communicating with Your Practitioner
It is important to communicate with your practitioner about any concerns or questions that you have about the treatment. This will help to ensure that you are comfortable with the process and understand the potential risks.
Who Should Choose Laser Therapy for Back Pain?
There are certain types of back pain that are more suitable for laser therapy over other forms of treatment. Candidates for laser therapy for back pain include:
Chronic Back Pain
Laser therapy is most effective for chronic back pain, which is defined as pain that lasts for more than 12 weeks. This type of pain is more likely to respond to laser therapy because it is typically caused by inflammation or nerve damage.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Laser therapy works well for soft tissue injuries, such as muscle strains and sprains. Soft tissue injuries can be caused by overuse or trauma, and they can occur in any part of the back.
Degenerative Disc Disease
Degenerative disc disease is a condition that is caused by the breakdown of the discs in the spine. The resulting pain is usually chronic and can be debilitating. Laser therapy can help to reduce the inflammation and pain associated with this condition.
Herniated Discs
Herniated discs occur when the soft tissue between the vertebrae in the spine bulges out. This can put pressure on the nerves in the spine, which can cause pain and discomfort. Laser therapy can help to reduce the inflammation associated with herniated discs.
Post-Surgical Pain
If you have undergone back surgery and are experiencing pain, laser therapy may be a suitable treatment option. Laser therapy can help to reduce the inflammation associated with surgical procedures, which can help to alleviate pain.
Conclusion
Laser therapy is a compelling treatment option for back pain that offers several benefits, including its non-invasive nature and potential to promote healing.
It has been shown to be an effective approach to tackling chronic back pain, soft tissue injuries, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, and post-surgical pain.
While this treatment option is generally safe, it's important to consult with a qualified healthcare provider to determine whether laser therapy is suitable for one's individual needs and circumstances.
For further assistance, you can consult with the Restoration Physical Therapy specialists in Media, PA.