The world is in pain. Millions of people suffer from chronic discomfort, with back, neck, and joint injuries accounting for the majority of cases. Persistent aches disrupt lives, hinder productivity, and diminish joy in everyday activities. The global shift in lifestyles during the pandemic has only aggravated these issues. Factors such as prolonged hours working from home, poor sitting postures, increased screen time, irregular eating habits, and mounting psychological stress have all contributed to an alarming rise in physical discomfort. Enter cold laser therapy devices—ingenious solutions designed to offer relief. However, with so many options available, choosing the best one can be daunting. This article guides you through the essentials of selecting the right cold laser therapy device tailored to your specific needs.
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Understanding Cold Laser TherapyCold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment that utilizes specific wavelengths of light to interact with tissue, believed to accelerate the healing process. Traditional uses of this therapy include relief for chronic knee pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic neck pain, but its application has broadened considerably. Recent studies have shown that LLLT may also aid:
According to the World Association for Laser Therapy, LLLT achieves results through improved microcirculation and increased cellular metabolism. However, it's essential to note that the efficacy of this treatment may vary across individuals and conditions.
Evaluating Your Specific NeedsIdentifying your unique health needs is the first step in choosing an appropriate cold laser therapy device. Whether it's acute injuries or chronic conditions, having a clear understanding of your health issues is crucial. For instance, those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis may require different wavelength settings than someone who needs muscle recovery after strenuous exercise. Knowing the main cause of your discomfort allows for more precise treatment application.
A report on the Therapeutic Use of Lasers in Medicine revealed that appropriate diagnostic tools combined with professional guidance could maximize the benefits of LLLT.
Types of Cold Laser Therapy DevicesCold laser therapy devices are generally categorized based on their intended use. Home devices are usually portable, easy to operate, and designed for self-treatment, while professional units are more substantial, offering increased power and a wider range of settings. A trained professional is required to administer therapy with these machines. To choose the correct device, consider your treatment goals, budget, and the available specifications of different models.
Device Type
Pros
Cons
Home Devices
Portable, easy to use, affordable
Limited power and settings
Professional Devices
More power, broader range of settings
Require professionals, expensive
Understanding the differences between these devices can help you make the right decision for your health and recovery needs.
Description
Effectiveness and SafetyWhile numerous studies indicate positive outcomes related to cold laser therapy, it is crucial to ensure that any device you consider complies with safety standards and regulations. Trustworthy models are usually FDA-cleared, meaning they've met safety requirements through rigorous testing.
Cost Considerations and BudgetingCosts for cold laser therapy devices can vary widely. Home devices range from $100 to $5,000, whereas professional-grade units can exceed $30,000. Assessing your budget within the context of anticipated benefits, frequency of use, and potential savings on other medical treatments is critical. To help visualize, here is a simple table with price ranges and potential considerations:
Device Type
Price Range
Typical Use
Home Devices
$100 to $5,000
Personal use, mild conditions
Professional-Grade Units
Exceeds $30,000
Clinical settings, severe or chronic conditions
Researching Brands and Customer ReviewsConducting due diligence on brands offers insights into reliability. Look for long-standing companies with a history of satisfied customers and prompt customer service. Online reviews hold valuable information but should be weighed alongside professional medical advice. Some highly reputable companies in this industry include Theralase, BioFlex, and ColdLasers.org.
Consulting Healthcare ProfessionalsConsultation with a healthcare professional is advisable. These experts evaluate your condition, providing clarity on whether cold laser therapy is beneficial. Recommendations regarding ideal settings, type of device, and treatment frequency can be critical for achieving optimum results. More than 80% healthcare experts recommend consulting a professional before commencing such therapies.
Evaluating Outcomes and AdjustmentsIt is important to monitor the effects following the adoption of a cold laser therapy regimen. Be aware that different individuals will experience varying results, and modifications might be necessary as you progress. Feedback from regular assessments can guide potential adjustments in your approach. Keep in mind that patience and consistency are key, as effects may not be immediately noticeable.
Cold laser therapy works on the principle of photobiomodulation, where different wavelengths of light energy are absorbed by cell tissues, initiating physiological reactions.
The non-thermal photons of light are absorbed by the cells, leading to reduced inflammation and pain, tissue regeneration, and enhanced blood circulation. Photobiomodulation enhances cellular repair mechanisms, which is beneficial for healing injuries and chronic conditions. Consulting healthcare professionals for an informed perspective is recommended for those considering this therapy.
Cold laser therapy devices are generally considered safe for home use when they are FDA-cleared and used according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is important to ensure that the device offers customizable settings appropriate for home therapy. Key features like adjustable power output and pulse frequency help maximize safety and efficacy.
However, care must be taken, as improper usage or excessive exposure may lead to adverse effects. Users should monitor responses and consult healthcare professionals for advice tailored to individual requirements.
Cold laser therapy can treat a variety of conditions, including arthritis, joint and muscle pain, sports injuries, and post-operative wounds. It is also used for managing chronic pain, promoting tissue repair, and reducing inflammation. Specific applications will vary, requiring different device settings based on the targeted condition.
While evidence supports positive outcomes, consulting healthcare professionals can confirm its suitability for unique health needs. Intended outcomes depend on the device's specifications, method of use, and user adherence to therapy protocols.
Frequency of cold laser therapy will depend on the individual's condition, severity, and device capabilities. Some devices are designed for daily use, while others may recommend sessions a few times a week. It is essential to refer to the manufacturer's guidelines and consult healthcare professionals for advice on appropriate usage for best results.
Consistent evaluation of therapy outcomes can help in optimizing session frequency. Always maintain a cautious approach, ensuring treatment does not exceed recommended levels.
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Proper maintenance and care are critical to extending the lifespan of your cold laser therapy device. Regularly clean the device with a soft cloth and avoid exposure to water or excessive moisture. Store the device in a cool, dry place when not in use and replace batteries or charge the device as needed. User manuals often contain specific cleaning instructions and usage tips to keep your device functioning effectively. Regular inspection for any signs of wear and tear can prevent issues from escalating.
Key TakeawaysIn summary, selecting the best cold laser therapy device involves a thorough understanding of your health needs, assessing device specifications, consulting medical professionals, and considering economic factors. With proper evaluation, these devices promise relief, enabling individuals to manage chronic discomfort effectively. As OrthoJointRelief's mission illustrates, the correct equipment and approach not only alleviate pain but also help
Coldlasers.Org now offers more FDA cleared class-4 options than any other seller. Over the years, there has been some controversy in the therapy laser market about class-4 lasers and their performance/safety when compared to lower power cold lasers. This controversy is mainly driven by class 1 - 3b manufacturers spending their money and time bashing their higher powered competition to scare people away from what can be a superior product. There are lots of good cases where a class 3b is the best option but in many cases, higher dosages provide better, faster and more consistent results. That is why class 4 systems are becoming the "standard" in top chiropractic offices, laser-dedicated neuropathy centers and pain clinics. The truth is that all the options we sell have their niche. First, lets look at the class-4 systems we sell and then we will continue the discussion.
Brand Spec Price Notes ReGen Laser 30 to 104 watts, Up to 6 Wavelengths Pulse & CW $16,950 - $54,950 The Gold standard of lasers. ATP max 25 to 60.3 watts, Up to 4 Wavelengths Pulse & CW $10,950 - $19,950 High performance in a low cost system. EVOlaser 9 - 27 watts, Up to 4 Wavelengths Pulse & CW $8,950 - $14,995 One of the highest perfomance class 4 systems at a reasonable price. Apollo Laser .5 - 5 watt 810nm CW $5,149 & Up A great balance of simplicity and safety. EVO FX 45 watt tri-wavelength $24,000 For those who need maximum power. Eltech K-Laser 12 - 30 watt Tri/Quad wavelength $19,990 - $45,000 Built in Italy/ great quality but we no longer sell it.So, when is a class 4 system the best choice? Class 4 lasers are best for users who:
Class 4 system are just like other lower power systems except they deliver the energy faster. Technically, they do not push the energy deeper. The ability to deliver a photo-chemical reaction deep in the body is based on RATS: reflection, absorption, transmission, scatter and this is controlled by the wavelength of light. More powerful systems deliver the energy faster so that you can get to your target dosage (at depth) in a shorter time. If the goal is to deliver maximum energy at depth and get a photo-chemical reaction, you want your highest power wavelength to be in the 810nm range. This is the wavelength with the highest efficiency at producing a photo-chemical reaction in deep in tissue.
In cases where the energy needs to be delivered over a large problem area, this extra power keeps the treatment times at a fraction of the time for class 1m - 3b systems. The average class 4 system is 5 to 50 times more powerful than a lower class laser.
Dosage equals average power X treatment time so if you targeting the same dosage, a 10-watt laser will accomplish in 1 minute what it takes 1-watt needs 10 minutes to accomplish.
The extra power also allows practitioners to deliver class 3b dosages in just a couple minutes or go to higher dosages for superior pain control. You can also use the extra power to distribute energy over a larger area which often helps support the surrounding inflammation to help people feel better faster.
If desired, class 4 system can deliver medium dosage like you get in a class 3b system and lower power systems but class 4 systems give you the choice to treat larger areas, deeper areas, do shorter treatment times or provide better pain control. It is up to the practice to decide how to use the system.
There are 3 downsides to these system:
Not all class 4 system are alike. Much of the bad press about class 4 laser is really about poorly designed over 40 watts. Once you get into systems that deliver 40 joules/second, you must use a larger emitter head (which is not hard) or keep the system moving to reduce over-heating or have some thermal control system. In busy clinics, this not a limitation, it is the standard process anyway as they have a lot of patients with large and deep problems where a lower power system could make it too burdensome to get an appropriate dosage.
Another solution is the ReGen Laser. It is the first system to fix this problem with built-in skin temperature measurements that automatically turn down the power level to reduce the risk of over-heating. They also use larger emitters and they offer systems with up to 6 different wavelengths including some cooler wavelengths.
Multiwavelength system are not just targeting higher deliver rates. Newer system can have up to 6 six different wavelengths. These systems include laser diode that each have unique advantage allow users to treat a wider variety of problems. For example, the addition of blue laser (450nm) is best for antibacterial and anti-viral applications so it might not be used in most therapies but having that extra power at that wavelength makes the laser much more flexible.
Below is a table that shows some common claims and some of the underlying facts behind the claim. Always keep in mind that almost every class 4 laser has the option to turn down the power when it is appropriate so you have more flexibility with a higher power pulsing/CW class 4 laser.
We sell Eltech K-Laser, EVO laser, Apollo, Pilot and Accuray class 4 systems.
Claim
Details
There is a big difference between class 3 and Class 4 products.
Yes and No.
Yes. Once you get above 5 watts, the laser diodes are installed in a cooled housing and you use a fiber optic cable to transfer the power to the handheld probe. This adds complexity to the system but does not change the mechanism of PBM.
No, the general cutoff for a class 4 laser is 0.5 (1/2) watts per diode. This means that, for example, the Avant LZ30z with 2 beams at .70 watts per beam is more powerful than some Class 4 lasers but is a class 3b. The Apollo is Class 4 but uses probes that are extremely similar to the Class 3b probes used by Thor. It is just a matter of picking individual laser diodes above or below .5 watt output. The line between class 3 and class 4 lasers is very blurry.
Class 4 lasers are not appropriate for home use.
False, however most class 4 systems do require extra training to make sure the user is safe. Many home users start out getting therapy in a doctor's office but want the convenience of therapy at home. In this case, users can simply adapt the protocol that is already working for use at home to save time and money. Systems like the Apollo cold laser use a divergent beam and a timer as the only variable so less training is required. For pain control, class 4 power lasers, with higher power and continuous wave, are hard to beat.
Too much power is not as effective for healing.
This statement has NOT be proven by an independent study; it has only been shown by studies paid for by lower power laser manufacturers who use the study to discredit class 4 systems. Higher dosages are better for pain control but higher-end Class 4 laser have adjustable power so when you want less power, you simply turn it down. When you need more power for better pain control, you turn it up.
The Arndt-Schulz curve that everyone uses to show the biphasic response of lasers has no numbers on it and there is very little information about the actual dosage (joules/cm2) at the peak of the curve.
Class 4 lasers are not worth the money.
False. Class 4 laser are more flexible and provide shorter treatment times and faster results. If you are NOT concerned about therapy times, flexibility or maximum pain relief, then a lower power product will cost less. Class 4 lasers are for doctors and home users who want to have every option available without limitations for any condition. State-of-the-art class 4 lasers can be purchased for less than $10,000, however there are several mediocre class 3b laser for over $15,000. You get what you pay for with the class 4 systems that we sell. If you have a busy practice, a class 4 system will have a better return-on-investment (ROI) than a lower class laser because it is so much faster.
Class 4 lasers are better for pain control.
Class 4 lasers have shorter therapy times.
Class 4 lasers are better for treating larger areas.
Yes to all of these claims. Higher power lasers provide better pain control in a shorter period and can cover large areas much faster than a lower power lasers. The key here is not necessarily the class but the total power output of the system. Higher power allows for more flexibility. Everyone in the market seems to agree that more power is better for pain control, better for larger areas and will shorten the time it takes to get the optimum healing or pain control density.
Class 4 laser are dangerous.
Yes. If used incorrectly, a class 4 cold laser can cause damage just like you get if you stare at or lay out in the sun to long. This is not a good reason to not have the tool. With proper training and adherence to safety precautions, class 4 lasers are safe.
All the other products on the market are inferior to (insert product name here).
Though some manufactures may claim they are superior, there is not one solution that is the best for all applications. Every manufacturer has a unique value proposition. It is our job to help you find the most appropriate system for your application.
Delivery rate has an impact on efficacy. No. In our opinion, there is no difference in efficacy between using a 1 watt for 10 minutes or a 10 watt laser for 1 minute. They both deliver the exact same dosage (600 joules). Higher delivery rates allow for treating larger areas and deeper area in a reasonable amount of time.So, what conclusions can we make about class 4 lasers?
The line between a class 4 and class 3 is gray. The Avant and Thor class 3b systems have similar specs and performance to the lower-power class 4 lasers. Because the Apollo is not a fiber optic design, it cost than fiber-optic based class 4 system. Class 4 therapy lasers can be the perfect laser for many applications but that really depends more on the requirements of the application or practice.
The bottom line is that class 4 system deliver results. Many people that don't get results with a class 3b and below, will get results with a class 4. That is why they are used in tens of thousands of clinics in the US.