By affecting and reversing the offending pathology at the cellular level, laser therapy optimizes the restoration of injured tissues to function normally, thereby alleviating the symptom of pain. The beneficial effects of laser therapy are cumulative over the course of a series of treatments.
Short Term Effects
* Production and release of beta-endorphins (these are morphine like substances produced by various cells in the body that inhibit the sensation of pain)
* Cortisol production is increased (cortisol is the precursor of cortisone). This enables the body to combat the stress associated with trauma or the disease process
* The short-term effect is significant in 5-10% of cases during or after the conclusion of the initial treatment, but is not as important as the long term or cumulative effect
Long Term Or Cumulative Effect
* ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production is increased resulting in improved cellular metabolism
* DNA (deoxyribonucleicacid) production; protein building block of tissue is substantially increased
* Neurotransmission is facilitated due to elevated levels of serotonin and aceytylecholine
* Mitochondrial activity is stimulated resulting in cell replication etc. (i.e. replacement, regeneration and repair of abnormal cells)
* Modulation of macrophages, fibroblasts and other cells
* Angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels)
* Regulates cell membrane potential, essential in Na, Cl and K ion transfer (electrolyte balance)
* Cytokines and other chemicals enhancing cellular communications are released
Other Effects
* The immune response is stimulated
* Lymphatic drainage is improved
* The histamine response is positively altered
* Production of growth hormone is increased
* The body’s natural healing processes are enhanced
The beneficial physiological changes noted above are the result of tissue regeneration and cellular stimulation. Many other positive activities are modulated including the humoral and cerebral spinal fluid effects which are highly significant and are currently under investigation in research laboratories to accurately delineate the scientific aspects of this process.