Over the last few weeks, I have had patients bring up some great questions about our laser therapy treatment. I wanted to address them all in one place, so that future patients could have a reference.
Why Laser is Different?
Laser therapy is a medical breakthrough therapeutic device with unparalleled applications and treatment outcomes. It works fast, is drug-free, all-natural, and promotes proper healing AND pain reduction. The Laser works by converting light into biochemical energy - this is similar to how sunlight is converted into Vitamin D by our bodies. The light from the laser stimulates receptors on the mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cell). This action causes increased blood flow, increase in healthy tissue repair, reduction in swelling, and decreased pain.
How is the treatment done and what are the benefits?
The laser is placed either above or in contact with the skin allowing the healing energy to penetrate tissue. You will either be sitting on a treatment table or lying down in a relaxed position. Some benefits include: the immune system response is stimulated, lymphatic drainage is improved, pain is decreased, swelling (edema) is decreased, production of growth hormone is increased, & the body’s natural healing process are enhanced.
The beneficial physiological changes noted above are the result of tissue regeneration and cellular stimulation. You will notice that we, at Art of Health Chiropractic, focus on reduction and elimination of pain by using the the most powerful therapy laser available in any Nashville Chiropractic office, to help our patients. Once the pain is reduced we take every measure to make sure the healing process is completed.
What does laser therapy have over other forms of therapy?
It does not require the use of drugs or surgery, there are virtually no side effects or risks, and it is quick and convenient. Pain relief is often immediate.
Does it hurt? What does the treatment feel like?
You will most likely feel a soothing warmth. There is no pain associated during laser application. Laser treatment is relaxing and some people even fall asleep.
How long does the treatment take?
The typical course of treatment is 10-minutes, depending on the size of the area being 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 to 3 times a week. Treatment plans are determined on an individual basis.
How many treatments does it take?
This depends on the nature of the condition being treated. For some acute conditions, 2 to 6 treatments may be sufficient. More chronic conditions may require 6-10 sessions. Conditions such as severe arthritis may require ongoing periodic care to control pain.
How long before results are felt?
You may feel improvement in your condition (usually pain reduction) after the very first treatment. Not everyone responds to laser therapy and results cannot be guaranteed. Each treatment is cumulative and results are often felt after 2 to 4 sessions. Treatments just take a few minutes, however the therapeutic effect continues to sooth and heal long after you leave our office.
Are the results long lasting?
Laser Therapy is about healing. It's not about masking or covering up a condition. When you feel better from this therapy... it's because you are better. Therefore results have been found to be quite long lasting.
Can it be used in conjunction with other forms of treatment?
Yes! Laser therapy is even more effective when combined with other forms of therapy, including chiropractic, soft tissue mobilization, passive exercises, and proper nutrition.
What is the difference between this and the lasers at other Chiropractors?
There are two main differences. The first is that the laser at Art of Health Chiropractic is a Class IV laser. This means that the laser is able to penetrate deeper tissues than a conventional laser, healing tissues at the source. The next difference is the power of the laser. The technical jargon is boring, but at 15 Watts, our laser will get you feeling better, faster.
Chronic pain relief and hard-to-fix cases are our specialty. We have many patient's who have tried class III laser therapy with no success and with just ONE Class IV heat laser treatment they start feeling better. All lasers are not the same.
How do I know if laser therapy is right for me?
We will evaluate your condition and perform a complete laser therapy examination to determine if you are a candidate for this procedure. The laser is contraindicated for use on open wounds, the abdomen and low back during pregnancy, and in patients with malignant tumors.
Can laser therapy be used over medical implants or over metal?
Yes, laser therapy is a light treatment. No heating is involved with the surgical or metal implants. It can be used safely with no side effects. It is extremely effective for post-operative wound healing. Many hip and knee replacement patients see us for care.
Is it covered by medical insurance?
Some insurance covers the procedure, but not many. Most patients who decide to receive the benefits of laser therapy are sick and tired of being sick and tired, so they choose to seek this effective method of treatment on their own. Price is usually not a consideration when you have been suffering for so long.
What kind of conditions do you treat?
We have had success treating many different conditions, no matter how acute or chronic. Some of the common conditions we treat are: low back pain, whiplash, knee pain, shoulder pain, epicondylitis, carpal tunnel, headaches, trigeminal neuralgia, plantar fasciitis, neck pain, chronic arthritis, and post-surgical knees and shoulders to name a few.
Dr. Callie Gant and Dr. Michael Buczynski founded Art of Health Chiropractic with the goal of creating a happier, healthier Nashville. Feel free to call the office at 615-953-7544 with any questions or to schedule your first appointment.
