FOR SMOKING CESSATION, PAIN RELIEF AND WEIGHT LOSS
Low level laser therapy (LLLT), or a “cold laser”, is a painless, non-invasive treatment that uses acupuncture points and biostimulation to achieve specific therapeutic goals. Treatment with cold lasers is FDA cleared for pain indications. Often physical therapists utilize LLLT along with exercises.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
On a biochemical level, it stimulates the cells' ADP to become ATP and to heal an area. Particular wavelengths of light stimulate the body’s healing cells. The laser light helps injured cells return to their natural healthy state, allowing them to efficiently take in oxygen and nutrients and eliminate toxins. By directly treating the problem area with appropriate laser light, laser therapy helps the body to heal itself. It is especially effective for chronic conditions or where the immune system is compromised, as it can kick start a stalled healing process.
Low level laser therapy cannot burn or harm the skin or soft tissues. The effects are ‘photo-biochemical’, not thermal. Low level lasers also provide provide an alternative needle-free acupuncture medium.
This is Dr. Howlin’s favorite treatment for back and neck pain. She finds it helpful and soothing even after the first treatment. There are nationwide franchises for this type of healing. Dr. Howlin is one of the first physicians in Michigan to employ this type of laser, having implemented it in 2006. She trained in the United States and the United Kingdom to learn these specialized treatments.
Other off label treatments include treatment for Bell's palsy, shingles, wound care and smoking cessation.