ANSWERS: 1
  • Low level laser therapy holds promise as a non-invasive healing method, but so far the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted it clearance for relatively few medical uses.

    Description

    Low level laser therapy, also known as LLLT or "cold" laser therapy, uses a much lower intensity of light than the traditional "hot" lasers that perform surgical procedures.

    Uses

    Preliminary evidence suggests that low level laser therapy may aid wound healing and relieve pain or inflammation. Lasers aimed directly over the afflicted area stimulate the tissues' healing processes.

    Applications

    Low-intensity laser beams sometimes replace traditional acupuncture needles for people who want to try acupuncture therapy but fear needles.

    Effectiveness

    While the FDA allows low level laser therapy as an experimental treatment based on early evidence of success, the American Cancer Society notes that the devices themselves vary wildly in intensity levels and application.

    Considerations

    As in any experimental treatment, low level laser surgery cannot claim to cure any disease until scientific documentation backs up such claims. Currently the FDA has cleared low level laser therapy for pain relief and hair growth therapies.

    Source:

    American Cancer Society: Cold Laser Therapy

    American Society for Photobiology: FDA and LLLT Approvals

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