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Acupuncture focuses on a holistic, energy-based approach rather than
a disease-oriented diagnostic and treatment model. The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there
are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed
to be responsible for disease. The acupuncturist can correct imbalances
of flow at identifiable points close to the skin.
[State of California: Department of Consumers Affairs: Acupuncture
Board]
Laser Acupuncture has been described as the application of red and
near infra-red light over certain acupuncture points employing the theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine. In contrast to general surgical
or cosmetic lasers that produce heat and thermo-destructive laser energy, Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) produces no
harm to human tissue in normal use and thus is classified by the FDA as a Class IIIB medical device.
Benefits of Low Level Laser Therapy
In the same way that skin
has photoreceptivity to sunlight and becomes tanned after exposure, other types of cells and structures in the body contain
photoreceptors. Through the action of photo-biostimulation of light reactive biological receptors
(chromophores) in the body, Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) has demonstrated the ability to significantly accelerate and enhance
the body's natural defense and repair components in the presence of injury, inflammation and certain disease processes. Low
Level Laser Therapy is also effective in providing pain relief by stimulating the production of endorphins.
By modifying the effects and limiting the duration of inflammation,
as well as enhancing specific repair and healing processes, LLLT is consistent in providing pain relief, reduced
inflammation, reducing injury damage and restoring loss of function. Additionally, Low Level Laser Therapy
is able to facilitate more rapid cellular repair and stronger healed tissue structures. Multiple clinical studies
have noted the following results of LLLT:
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Increased
cell membrane potential
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Increased
cell metabolism
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Decreased
injury time
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Increased
collagen production
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Increased
microcirculation
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Increased
lymphatic response
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Enhanced
nerve regeneration
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Decreased
inflammation
-
Increased
pain relief
-
Decreased
edema magnitude
-
Increased
tissue and bone repair
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Increased
enzyme response
Why do lasers work? Living
cells and lasers are the only sources of coherent, monochromatic light of which I am aware.
I believe it is resonance - like influencing like - that accounts for much of the positive effects of low-level laser therapy.
Perhaps because of this similarity, cells are able to accept and use the energy from a therapeutic laser as if it were their
own.
People often ask, "What can one treat with low-level laser therapy?" I believe the answer might be, "Nearly
anything." If laser therapy can be delivered at an appropriate
dosage and wavelength to the target, hypofunctional cells and tissue are likely to accept and use this energy to rejuvenate
and to restore function. Like charging a battery, laser therapy re-energizes depleted cells and tissues.
David Rindge, A.P.
Therapeutic applications supported by studies include:
- acne;
- arthritis;
- back pain;
- carpal tunnel syndrome;
- cerebral palsy;
- dental applications;
- fibromyalgia;
- hearing disorders;
- herpes;
- lymphedema;
- maxillofacial disorders;
- nerve regeneration;
- neuralgia;
- neuropathy;
- pain (musculoskeletal, myofascial, nerve);
- Peyronie's disease;
- prostatitis;
- scars;
- sinusitis;
- Sjoegren's syndrome;
- skin disorders;
- sports injuries;
- tendonitis;
- wound healing
Presently the United States FDA has not determined
the safety or validity of its use.
Denise Brugman, AP, is not making any medical claims or claims
of cures in the use of Laser Acupuncture.
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