What to Expect
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT), also known as Photobiomodulation Therapy (PBMT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to promote tissue repair, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain.
The device is used in contact with the skin, directly on scar tissue, muscles or fibrotic tissue. Treatment time is usually 1 minute per point. Most treatments are 15-20 mins per session, depending on the condition being treated and the size of the treatment area.
Patients can expect:
- Fast softening of fibrotic tissue
- Volume reduction over time – maintaining or improving after treatment has stopped
- Improvement in skin texture and thickness
- Lasting benefit and continuing improvement
How Many Treatments
The number of treatments required can vary based on the condition being treated, its severity, and the individual’s response to therapy.
Acute Conditions: May require 1-6 sessions.
Chronic Conditions: Often need 6-12 sessions.
Frequency: Treatments are usually administered 1-2 times per week.
Conditions Suited to LLLT/PBMT
LLLT/PBMT is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including but not limited to:
- Oedemas and lymphoedema: Post-surgical, primary, cancer-related
- Wound healing and tissue repair: Chronic wounds, ulcers, post-surgical recovery
- Scars and adhesions: Post-surgical scars, keloids, hypertrophic scars
- Fibrous lesions: Plantar fibromatosis, Dupuytren’s contracture, Peyronie’s disease
- Soft tissue injuries: Sprains, strains, bruises
- Musculoskeletal pain: Tendonitis, bursitis
Benefits
- Pain Relief: Effective in reducing both acute and chronic pain.
- Inflammation Reduction: Decreases swelling and inflammation.
- Enhanced Tissue Repair: Accelerates healing of wounds and reduces scar formation.
- Improved Circulation: Increases blood flow to the treated area, promoting healing.
- Non-Invasive: No surgery or invasive procedures required.
Contraindications
LLLT/PBMT is not recommended for use over areas with cancerous lesions, over the thyroid gland, over the abdomen or lower back if pregnant or in patients with photo-sensitive conditions.
Cost / Time Allowance
Cost: The cost of LLLT/PBMT varies based on the condition and number of treatments needed. Typically 6-12 treatments will be needed to see results.
Time Allowance: Each session typically lasts between 15-20 minutes. For optimal results, plan to commit to the full course of treatment as recommended by your practitioner. Depending on the condition, multiple sessions per week over several weeks may be required.
Summary
LLLT/PBMT offers a safe, non-invasive option for pain relief and accelerated healing for various conditions. For more detailed information or to schedule a consultation to discuss if LLLT/PBMT is right for you, please contact our clinic.