Usage Parameters
Four important parameters need to be considered and set for clinicians to achieve the best possible therapeutic effects when using low level laser.
- Selection of the correct beneficial Wavelength
- The use of the correct Power levels at appropriate density
- The Time of application to ensure the necessary amount of Energy
- The appropriate Pulsing frequency
Wavelength
Wavelength is measured in nanometers.
It is set in the probe and cannot be changed.
Omega’s lasers are produced with wavelengths under 1000nm utilising red light (600nm to 780nm) and Infrared (over 780nm):
- Red Light (Visible)
Readily absorbed by the mitochondria and therefore potentially stimulatory
Excellent source of stimulation of a range of growth factors
Red Light does not penetrate very effectively below the skin surface and into the tissue below
Red light is optimal for wound healing or superficial conditions but is not the most effective way to treat deeper injury. - Infrared (Invisible)
Absorbed through the cell walls (acting differently between cells) and therefore cell response is more wavelength specific in the infrared range, responding differently to different wavelengths
More penetrative through the tissue, especially the 800nm to 900nm range, therefore this range is selected for treatment through intact skin and pain relief.
Synergistic effects are achievable through combining selected wavelengths in both the infrared and red light ranges - see multi-wavelength cluster probes.
Energy Density (Joules/cm2)
To create a response in the growth factor cells or to provide pain relief it is necessary to make sure that we are delivering sufficient energy at appropriate density.
The simple formula for the calculation of the required energy which we as clinicians are providing in each treatment is based on the relationship of Energy (measured in Joules) = Power x Time.
Power (in watts or milliwatts) is the strength of the beam and is set in the probe at the factory by Omega. Clinicians need to know the power of the probe they are choosing to use and also have the probes regularly checked to ensure that they are running to full power. With Omega's equipment this check can be quite simply carried out using the special measuring device integral to the control unit.
Because differing effects have been observed according to the density at which the power is delivered, treatment dosage is measured in Energy Density or Joules per centimetre squared (J/cm2), which takes this power density into account and also allows comparison of dosage across manufacturers' systems. Energy Density calculations are automatically made by the control units with the user simply selecting the probe and setting the time. Omega provides guidance on the probe choice and dosage for the most common procedures with each system purchased.
Pulsing Rate
Pulsing rate equals the number of times per second light is emitted. Research has indicated that there are effects specific to pulsing rate. Omega Laser control units allow variation of pulsing rate from a selected set of appropriate options. Concise details of optimal pulsing frequencies are supplied with all Omega Laser Systems equipment.
For up-date information and dose charts, existing Omega Laser Systems customers can contact us at info@lasersystems.co.uk
Parameters for Laser Acupuncture
When low level laser is used as an acupuncture medium, although certain wavelengths, energy and pulsing rates are optimal, the selection is led by the acupuncture system requirements rather than the direct cellular response requirements. Best benefit of laser acupuncture will therefore be achieved by a qualified acupuncturist. (Specialised Laser Acupuncture training days for acupuncturists are offered by Omega from time to time - see our Training programme for the next one). 'Trigger' point stimulation, however, is increasingly used by health care professionals in physical therapy disciplines and is easily achieved with low level laser, integrating well with direct laser therapy and manipulation.
Stand alone laser acupuncture applications such as smoking cessation require specific additional training, especially if to be undertaken by a non-acupuncturist.