Class IV lasers are significantly more powerful than the lower class 3 lasers, meaning they have the power to penetrate much deeper into damaged tissue.
The deeper penetration capabilities of Class IV lasers allows sufficient energy to be delivered deep into the body and areas where lower lasers cannot reach. Class four laser has the power to treat much larger areas in a shorter period of time. When tissues that surround the injured areas are treated as well they land more support and help stabilize the injured area. Like the ripple effect seen when throwing a pebble into a pond, when an area is injured the surrounding areas are put under extra stress and can develop into ongoing problems if not treated.
How Does Deep Tissue Laser Therapy Work?
Deep Tissue Laser Therapy, activates a cascade of biochemical processes (photobiomodulation) in the body which result in:
Accelerated Tissue Repair
Laser Therapy results in an increase in ATP (cellular energy) production in cells which helps aid cell regeneration, nutrient absorption and waste removal. An increase in circulation to the area results in an increase in oxygenated blood to the damaged tissue. The result is accelerated healing of muscles, tendons, ligaments and even bone.
Pain Reduction
Laser Therapy increases the production and release of endorphins and enkephalins, natural pain relieving chemicals. There is also a beneficial effect on nerve cells by suppressing the pain signals transmitted by cells to the brain, decreasing nerve sensitivity and reducing the perception of pain. Over time this can help to reset the chronic pain cycle.
Decreased Inflammation
Laser Therapy activates vasodilation which promotes proper lymphatic drainage. There is an increase in inflammatory mediators within the cell which decreases inflammation within the tissue. This also has the effect of reducing pain in the affected area.
Increased Metabolic Activity
The biochemical effect of laser therapy within the cell results in higher outputs of specific enzymes needed for healing
Faster Wound Healing
Laser light stimulates fibroblast development in damaged tissue. Fibroblasts are the building blocks of collagen, which is predominant in wound healing. Collegan is the essential protein required to repair tissue injuries
Improved Vascular Activity
Laser therapy increases the formation of new capillaries in damaged tissue which speeds up the healing process, closes wounds quicker and reduces scar tissue formation
Improved Nerve Function
Slow recovery of nerve functions in damaged tissue can result in numbness and impaired limbs. Laser Therapy speeds up the process of nerve cell regeneration and increase nerve cell action potential to normal levels.