Cold Laser low-level Therapy (CLLLT) is another form of “subtle energy” bodywork that enhances body functioning, and helps alleviate pain and dysfunction. This technique is often used to supplement treatment of carpal tunnel, joint pain and soft tissue injury, plantar fascitis and peripheral neuropathy. The technique induces mild photo-biostimulation of the target area which works as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory and increases circulation and collagen production. The client feels no sensation as there is no heat or destruction of tissue. This work may be done with the client fully clothed.
Laser tissue interaction can be sub-divided into thermal and non-thermal interaction. The most important step to achieve therapeutic benefit is absorption of laser energy. When light strikes any target medium it may be reflected from the surface of the medium (e.g., like a mirror). It may be transmitted through the medium (e.g., like a glass of water). It may be scattered by the particles in the medium (e.g., smoke or fog). It may also be absorbed by the medium, in which case the energy transfers from the incident photon to the medium molecules. The visible light laser is highly pigment specific. Therefore, visible lasers (400 to 700 nm) are highly absorbed by melanin, carotene, haemoglobin and myoglobin. The visible red and near infrared wavelengths penetrate the deepest in biological tissues. The color red tends to absorbed best in its complementary color. As blood is red, it does not absorb red light particularly well, especially low level light. Therefore, visible red light can penetrate further in tissue.
The therapist uses a multi-diode red laser of single wavelength (635 nm) fixed at very low power (5 mW). It can penetrate up to 2 inches into the body. The laser is similar to those commonly used as pointers in classrooms and meeting.
