| The beneficial effects of
the sun have been recognized in many cultures. Throughout
history light has been used for healing purposes.
Daylight constitutes the visible part of the spectrum
of electromagnetic radiation and has all the colors
of the rainbow. This type of light has a warming
effect on our bodies. Through the use of light energy our skin cells can manufacture Vitamin D. Our mood can also be elevated by light energy.
Laser
is an acronym for light amplification by stimulated
emission of radiation. Laser was predicted from
the theoretical work by Albert Einstein published
1916. Theodor Maiman of Hughes Aircraft presented
the first working laser, a ruby laser, at a press
conference 7th July 1960.
Laser
is a light beam that is different from conventional
light sources in that it travels in only one direction
and is monochromatic i.e. of one color. The laser
beam is constituted of a single wavelength and
is coherent. It’s packets of energy called
photons are all identical in size and travel equidistant
in space and time.
Laser
is known to the public as a cutting tool that
has uses in industry and also surgery.
These lasers rely on their thermal or heating
effect to achieve their objective.
The
clinical use of low powered lasers, which do not
have a thermal effect, was initially carried out
in the countries of the former Soviet Union, most
notably Hungary, and has continued there for thirty
years. Its use slowly spread to the rest of Europe
with increasing popularity in the last ten years.
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A
number of names have been used to describe this
use of laser. Low level laser, Soft laser and
Cold laser therapy have all been suggested. Photobiomodulation
aptly describes the interaction of laser light
with light sensitive bodies, called chromophores,
which are present in all our cells. This interaction
causes the cells to function in an optimum manner.
The application of light therapy for disease conditions
is now called PhotoMedicine.
The effects of laser light can be far reaching with reduction
of inflammation, promotion of healing, strengthening
of the immune system and relief of pain.
This
form of light therapy is painless and relatively
safe. Damage to the eye is possible if the rays
are directed at the retina. For this reason protective
goggles are worn during the procedure. Other contraindications
are the use of laser light over the fetus, the
gonads and over cancerous tissue. Laser is a safe
treatment for many conditions.
A
reliable diagnosis of the condition is imperative.
Basic reading for clinicians:
Ten Lectures on Basic Science of Laser Therapy
Author: Professor Tiina Karu
Laser Therapy
Authors:
Tunér and Hode
Clinical Electrotherapy
Author: Professor Jan Bjordal
Photo Medicine and Laser Surgery
Editor-in-chief: Raymond J. Lanzafeme
Co-Editor-in-chief: Chukuka S. Enwemeka
LaserWorld.nu
http://www.laser.nu/
North American Association for Laser Therapy
http://www.naalt.org
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