Passive Care - Cold Laser aka Low Level Laser aka Soft Laser Flashcards
Cold Laser: Action
Photobiomodulation
Intracellular Stimulation of Mitochondrial Activity
Cold Laser: Results
Photobiostimulation – wound healing
Photobioinhibition – pain management
Cold Laser: Indications
Open lesions Decubitus Ulcers DM Ulcers Lacerations Burns Acute & Chronic Pain Bursitis Tendonitis Decrease ROM Tic Douloureux Irritation Fibromyalgia Trigger Points
Cold Laser: Contraindications
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
Cold Laser: Wave Length
630-1200 nm
absorbs best into body rather than skin surface
Cold Laser: Penetration
superficial (depends on optic fiber and probe) but causes a cascade effect into the body
Cold Laser: Dosage
15-30 seconds over wound
minutes to hours for pain (usually 3-5 minutes)
Cold Laser: Placement
doctor uses optic fiber with a probe tip placed directly on target tissue or a few millimeters away
Cold Laser: Special Notes
Laser - light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation
Cold Laser - neon helium gases
Photophoresis - chemical driven by light into treatment area
Cold Laser: Precautions
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)