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What is Class 4 Laser Therapy?
Since receiving FDA approval in 2003, Class 4 laser therapy has become a standard and highly effective treatment for musculoskeletal injuries. By using specific wavelengths of red and near-infrared light, this therapy stimulates healing processes within the body, offering relief from pain, swelling, and limited mobility. Class 4 lasers are known for their ability to penetrate deeper into tissue, making them more powerful and effective than Class I, II, and III lasers. This non-invasive, drug-free treatment has gained widespread popularity in physical therapy, sports medicine, chiropractic care, and veterinary treatment. It helps reduce pain, improve range of motion, and speed up recovery from both acute and chronic conditions.
How Does Class 4 Laser Therapy Work?
Class 4 laser therapy works by emitting a wavelength of photons that transfer energy to the affected tissues—such as nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. This energy stimulates the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is essential for cell function and healing. ATP drives cellular processes, helping deliver oxygen, blood, and nutrients to the treated area, thus accelerating recovery and reducing symptoms like pain, swelling, and stiffness. In addition to these therapeutic effects, the laser provides soothing heat to the area, further enhancing its healing capabilities.
What Can Class 4 Laser Therapy Treat?
Class 4 laser therapy is effective for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Shoulder pain
- Knee pain
- Fibromyalgia pain
- Sciatica
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Sports injuries
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bursitis
- TMJ disorder
- Wound healing and scar tissue reduction
- Tendinitis
- Herniated discs or pinched nerves
- Repetitive motion injuries (e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow)
- Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis pain
Whether you’re recovering from a recent injury or dealing with chronic pain, laser therapy offers a powerful treatment option that is free from side effects and can be combined with other therapies, like dry needling and soft tissue work, for enhanced results.
What are the Benefits of Class IV Laser Therapy?
Class IV lasers offer numerous benefits in treating various conditions, including pain relief, tissue repair, and inflammation reduction. The laser’s energy penetrates deep into the tissue, promoting cellular regeneration and healing. It can also improve blood flow in the area, reducing inflammation and swelling. Through this procedure there are various benefits to be gained:
- A boost in cellular metabolism
- Reduction in muscle spasms
- A decrease in pain
- Improved healing to damaged tissues
Studies have shown that class IV lasers can be effective in treating conditions such as back pain, arthritis, tendonitis, and muscle strains, among others. With its non-invasive approach and few side effects, class IV lasers are becoming an increasingly popular choice for pain management and injury recovery in many fields of medicine.
Conclusion
Class 4 laser therapy is a proven, non-invasive solution for pain relief, tissue repair, and inflammation reduction. Whether you’re suffering from acute pain or dealing with a chronic condition, it offers an effective, drug-free way to accelerate recovery. Its ability to penetrate deep into tissue and stimulate natural healing processes makes it a valuable tool in various medical fields, including physical therapy, sports medicine, chiropractic care, and more.