Passive Care - Cold Laser aka Low Level Laser aka Soft Laser

Question 1

Cold Laser: Action

Answer 1

Photobiomodulation

Intracellular Stimulation of Mitochondrial Activity

Question 2

Cold Laser: Results

Answer 2

Photobiostimulation – wound healing

Photobioinhibition – pain management

Question 3

Cold Laser: Indications

Answer 3

Open lesions
Decubitus Ulcers
DM Ulcers
Lacerations
Burns
Acute & Chronic Pain
Bursitis
Tendonitis
Decrease ROM
Tic Douloureux Irritation
Fibromyalgia
Trigger Points

Question 4

Cold Laser: Contraindications

Answer 4

Tattoo's
Open Growth Plate
Eyes
Pregnant Uterus
Photosensitivity
Medications
Epilepsy
Thick Eschar (recent scar)
Testicles
Regions of Infection, Dry Skin, Bruising, Malignancies, Pace Maker, Thyroid

Question 5

Cold Laser: Wave Length

Answer 5

630-1200 nm

absorbs best into body rather than skin surface

Question 6

Cold Laser: Penetration

Answer 6

superficial (depends on optic fiber and probe) but causes a cascade effect into the body

Question 7

Cold Laser: Dosage

Answer 7

15-30 seconds over wound

minutes to hours for pain (usually 3-5 minutes)

Question 8

Cold Laser: Placement

Answer 8

doctor uses optic fiber with a probe tip placed directly on target tissue or a few millimeters away

Question 9

Cold Laser: Special Notes

Answer 9

Laser - light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation

Cold Laser - neon helium gases

Photophoresis - chemical driven by light into treatment area

Question 10

Cold Laser: Precautions

Answer 10

Use in a closed room (exposure to others)

Lock up device, clean laser probes, clean skin with alcohol

Doctor and patient should both wear goggles

Irreversible effects - protein coagulation, thermolysis, evaporation

New hot laser feels warm but is photo-physiological effect. Is used for neuropathy, failed back surgery, spinal stenosis, plantar fasciitis, carpal tunnel (still controversial)