Lasers differ in the wavelengths of light that they emit, the amount of power (light energy) that they deliver, the class that they fall into, whether they emit a continuous light beam or if the light is pulsed, and other variables. We use a Class 4 laser that benefits from Cutting Edge Laser Technologies Multiwave Locked System® (MLS) that delivers therapeutic wavelengths safely and efficiently.

Class 1 to class 3 lasers (AKA Cold lasers, or low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices) emit lower power levels and do not heat the tissues in general. The lower the class of laser, the lower the potential for damage to tissues. Low-level laser therapies are also much more widely available to consumers over the counter (chances are you’ve seen these devices directly marketed to you), and less expensive. The downside of lower powered lasers is that they take longer to deliver therapeutic doses of light energy, which is not as useful in a clinic setting.

Though our class 4 laser is high-powered, the risks are mitigated by the way that light is delivered to the treatment area, the light is emitted in two main ways

Some light is continually emitted steadily and without interruption during operation. This can generate a safe level of heat which can promote tissue relaxation and increased blood flow.

Some light emissions are chopped (AKA gated or pulsed), which means that they are rapidly turned on and off and observed as pulses of light. Chopped emissions mitigate the heat generated by concentrated light energy and have utility when deep tissue penetration is needed.

In the words of Cutting Edge:

“MLS sources have a peak power of 75 W and an average power of up to 1.2 W delivered with the synchronization of emissions (continuous/chopped and pulsed), which enables the user to reach desired tissue depth, while ensuring complete safety against collateral tissue (heat) damage.

Thanks to the higher peak power, one may act on the source of pain more directly by increasing the anti-inflammatory effects, speeding up the anti-edema effects and promoting activation of cellular regeneration processes.”

Wavelength is the distance between consecutive peaks of the laser light wave, typically measured in nanometers (nm). Different wavelengths penetrate tissues to varying depths and are absorbed differently depending on tissue type.

Our laser uses the wavelengths of “808nm (anti-edemic and anti-inflammatory) and 905nm (analgesic). An energetic synergy is created when delivering these wavelengths that produces greater anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects than either can produce on its own…” (Cutting Edge)

Duration and frequency need to be optimized based on the specific clinical scenario to maximize benefits and minimize side effects.

Safety is paramount, and that’s why we require specific eye protection for both the patient and operator that filters out the laser’s wavelengths.

First: Laser therapy is supported by empirical evidence:

• Evidence-Based Support: There is a growing body of research and clinical trials supporting the efficacy of therapeutic lasers. Numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses in peer-reviewed medical journals have demonstrated positive outcomes, particularly in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders, wound healing, and pain management.

• Precision and Control: Modern therapeutic lasers allow for precise control over intensity, pulsation, and wavelength, which can be tailored to individual patient needs, increasing the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.

Second: Laser therapy also allows for One Health and Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

• Complementary Therapy: Therapeutic lasers can be integrated into broader treatment plans alongside physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pharmacological interventions, providing a holistic approach to patient care. This integration supports the One Health initiative, which emphasizes multidisciplinary collaboration for optimal health outcomes.

• Enhancing Rehabilitation Outcomes: Collaboration with rehabilitation professionals can be enhanced through the use of laser therapy as it often speeds up the recovery process, allowing for quicker progression through rehabilitation protocols and potentially shorter recovery times. This can lead to more efficient use of healthcare resources and better patient outcomes.